Last summer my partner and
I were able to bring in the big bass of the tournament four times and missed out
on a couple others by just ounces. I was asked “how do you always come in with a
money fish? My response was simple “you have to fish where the big bass are”. I
think about it, it’s basically that simple but not that easy. I have included a
few tips below in hopes you will tip the scales with your own money fish!
Toad
Tactics:
Location, location,
location…you heard it before but you truly have to fish where the big ones live.
Fish the thickest, ugliest scum, pads or other junk you can find (so thick you
can walk on it). Pitch a one ounce screw-in bullet sinker with a tube or craw to
penetrate the thick cover and jig up and down a few times and then go to the
next spot. In areas that have openings you can skirt a Snag Proof Frog over the
top and let it sit in the opening for 10-15 seconds and hang-on for an
explosion. 50-65lb Power Pro with a Minnkota trolling motor are a must in this
stuff.
Another deadly trick is to
dead stick a weightless stick bait like the Culprit Stinger in the slop pockets
or edges for 30-60 seconds. Watch for line movement and prepare for a quality
fish.
When fishing pads and slop,
don’t forget to fish right next to the bank. I like to cast my rat on the shore
and pull it back. The water next to the bank warms-up faster and the good banks
have undercuts where the bigger bass hold tight. I’ve caught some
of my biggest fish in less than 12” of water right next to the bank.
Try these tactics when you
need an “anchor” fish or when numbers are not going and I’m sure you’ll be
cashing a “Big Bass” check soon. I’ll see you in the soup!
Tight Lines,
Joel Stokka
classicbass.com Pro Staff
Pro Staff for:
Snagproof
Minnkota
Humminbird
Uncle Josh
Culprit
Nemire Lures
Sizmic Lures
