What to look for, conditions, and why an umbrella rig in fall or spring can be a great setup. Kevin VanDam shares a lifetime of fishing advice and lets you spend the entire day with him as he throws an umbrella rig, talking about all the aspects of this power fishing rig!
As the baitfish school up across the flats, KVD utilizes an umbrella rig to cover all depths and find the feeding bass.
For all your bass fishing and outdoor sports needs: https://bassproshops.vzck.net/WqGoYO
In northern Michigan, the bass is on the move, focusing heavily on baitfish. Today, we’re exploring the effectiveness of the Strike King Titanium Umbrella Rig for finding and catching these transitioning bass.
The umbrella rig mimics a school of baitfish, making it irresistible to bass feeding aggressively before winter.
It’s rigged with multiple Rage Swimmers in varied natural colors like KVD Magic, Green Gizzard, and IU, which are perfect for clear water and matching the hatch.
When retrieved, the titanium wires offer unparalleled flexibility and action, giving the bait a lifelike flare.
Technique Tips:
- Efficient Coverage: Cast over large flats or along drop-offs. Count down the rig to the desired depth before starting a steady retrieve.
- Flare for Reaction Strikes: Speed up the retrieve occasionally to make the bait “flare,” triggering strikes from curious bass.
- Adjust for Depth: Use heavier heads on the bottom baits to keep the rig upright and in the strike zone.
Why It Works:
Bass feed on pods of baitfish like emerald shiners, which are abundant in fall. The umbrella rig’s visual appeal, with its flashing blades and kicking tails, perfectly mimics these baitfish clusters, drawing aggressive strikes.
Pro Tip:
If the water’s clear, downsize your swimbaits or add a splash of chartreuse to one tail to stand out. This subtle adjustment can often trigger the bigger fish to commit.
Final Thoughts:
Umbrella rigs are a game-changer for fall fishing. Whether targeting smallmouth, largemouth, or spots, their efficiency in covering water and mimicking natural forage is unmatched.
Just remember to check your local regulations regarding hook limits, and adapt accordingly with dummy baits if needed.
