How to fish spinnerbaits to catch more big bass
When targeting smallmouth bass, spinnerbaits can be incredibly effective if optimized for conditions and fish behavior. From blade adjustments to retrieve techniques, here are the critical steps to make your spinnerbait setup perfect for these feisty brown fish.
1. Speed Is Essential
Smallmouth bass love a fast-moving bait, so speed is key. To get that rapid retrieve, use a double Willow blade setup. This blade combination allows you to reel faster while keeping the bait lower in the water.
Downsizing the rear blade to a 4.5 or slightly smaller size can help speed up the retrieve and keep the bait running smoothly without rising too much in the water column.
2. Fine-Tune the Skirt Length
Trimming the skirt on your spinnerbait can make a big difference in hooking up. Cut the skirt just short enough to sit right behind the main hook, which creates a smaller target for the bass to strike, increasing the chances of a solid hookset. Always add a trailer hook; this addition helps catch fish that might nip at the bait instead of committing fully.
3. Adjust Colors Based on Conditions
Selecting the right color depends on the sky and water conditions. On overcast days, a bright chartreuse and white color scheme is highly visible and effective, as it stands out even against wave action and ripples on the surface. On sunny days, a more natural color with flash from the blades is often better, as bass can get a clearer look at the bait.
4. Keep It Moving – and Mix It Up
Maintaining a fast retrieve right under the surface is crucial, especially in choppy waters where waves create a natural shield, keeping the bait from being too exposed. Instead of a steady retrieve, try mixing up your cadence by stopping, starting, and twitching. This erratic movement mimics an injured fish, which smallmouth find hard to resist.
5. Use Stout Gear for Bigger Fish
Spinnerbait fishing for smallmouth is no light-tackle affair. Use a sturdy setup like a 6’10” rod paired with 17 lb test monofilament and a high-speed reel, ideally 7:1.
This combination allows for long casts and fast retrieves, which is essential when a fish strikes far from the boat. The high-speed reel ensures you can keep up the tension and bring the fish in quickly.
6. Positioning for Success in Windy Conditions
Smallmouth bass often gather near sandy edges and drop-offs, especially when there’s a good breeze. Wind can help concentrate fish, allowing you to focus on productive spots without covering an entire flat.
Position your boat to maximize the time your lure spends in the strike zone. Casting at a steep angle along these edges keeps your bait over fish-rich areas throughout the retrieve.
7. Stay Quick, Stay Agile
Smallmouth respond well to a quick retrieve, especially near the tops of waves. Keep your spinnerbait moving fast and vary the speed with twitches and pauses. This combo of speed, flash, and unpredictability is often too tempting for smallmouth to pass up.
With these spinnerbait tips, you’ll be stacking the odds in your favor, especially on windy days and in choppy water. Tailoring your gear, technique, and setup can turn a good day of smallmouth fishing into an unforgettable one.
