Fishing for bass is a beloved pastime for many anglers, and there are countless techniques and lures to choose from. One of the most popular and versatile options is the spinnerbait.
These lures mimic the look and movement of small fish, making them irresistible to hungry bass.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to fish a spinnerbait for bass, from choosing the right one to setting up your rig and mastering different retrieve techniques.
Choosing the Right Spinnerbait
When it comes to spinnerbaits, there are a few key factors to consider when making your selection.
First, consider the type of spinner bait. There are two main types: single-blade and double-blade. Single-blade spinnerbaits are best for shallow water and slow retrieves, while double-blade spinnerbaits create more vibration and are better for deeper water and faster retrieves.
Next, consider the size and weight of the spinner bait. In general, larger spinnerbaits are better for deeper water, while smaller spinnerbaits are better for shallow water. The weight of the spinnerbait is also important, as it will affect how deep it sinks and how fast it falls.
Finally, think about color and blade selection. The color of the spinnerbait should match the color of the local forage, such as minnows or shad. The blades of the spinnerbait should also match the color of the forage. Silver blades are a good choice in clear water, while gold blades are a good choice in stained water.
Setting Up Your Rig
Once you’ve chosen the right spinner bait, it’s time to set up your rig. The best rod and reel setups for fishing with a spinner bait are a medium-heavy to heavy power rod paired with a baitcasting reel. This will give you enough sensitivity to feel when a fish bites, but also enough power to set the hook and fight larger fish.
When it comes to the line and leader options, fluorocarbon or monofilament lines are a good choice, as they are less visible to fish and provide a more natural presentation. For a leader, you can use a short length of fluorocarbon or monofilament, or a wire leader if you’re fishing around heavy cover.
To properly tie on a spinnerbait, use a loop knot or a Palomar knot. These knots will allow the spinnerbait to move freely and create a more natural presentation.
Retrieve Techniques
Once your rig is set up and you’ve cast your spinnerbait, it’s time to start retrieving it. There are several techniques you can use to fish a spinnerbait, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Slow Rolling
Slow rolling is a technique where you retrieve the spinnerbait at a very slow pace, allowing it to sink to the bottom and then slowly rise back to the surface. This is a great technique for fishing in shallow water and around structures, as the slow presentation mimics the movement of a dying baitfish.
Burning
Burning is a technique where you retrieve the spinner bait as quickly as possible, creating a lot of surface disturbance and flash. This is a great technique for fishing in deeper water and around schooling fish, as the fast presentation mimics the movement of a fleeing baitfish.
Pausing and Twitching
Pausing and twitching is a technique where you retrieve the spinnerbait a few feet and then pause for a moment before continuing. This creates a natural stop-and-start motion that can trigger strikes from hesitant fish. Twitching the rod tip during the pause can also add an extra level of realism to the presentation. This technique is great for fishing around cover and structure, as the pause allows the spinner bait to sink and hover in front of the fish.
Varying Retrieve Speeds
Varying retrieve speeds is a technique where you change the speed of your retrieve throughout the cast. This can mimic the erratic movement of a panicked baitfish and trigger strikes from curious fish. This technique is great for fishing in open water and around schooling fish, as the varying speeds can entice fish to chase the spinner bait.
Conclusion
Fishing for bass with spinner bait can be a fun and effective way to catch these elusive fish. By choosing the right spinner bait, setting up your rig properly, and mastering different retrieve techniques, you can increase your chances of landing that trophy bass.
Remember to always pay attention to water conditions and fish behavior, as these can change throughout the day and have a big impact on your success. Happy fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of spinnerbait for fishing bass?
The best type of spinner bait for fishing bass varies depending on the conditions and the type of fish you are targeting.
Generally, a spinnerbait with a single, large blade and a bulky head is best for fishing in murky or stained water, as the large blade creates a lot of vibration and the bulky head creates a lot of disturbance on the surface.
For clear water, a spinner bait with a smaller blade and a more compact head is best, as it creates less disturbance and is less likely to spook the fish. It’s always good to have a variety of spinnerbaits with different blade sizes, colors, and head styles in your tackle box to match different fishing conditions.
What is the best rod and reel setup for fishing with a spinnerbait?
The best rod and reel setup for fishing with a spinner bait depends on the type of fishing you will be doing, but generally, a medium-light to medium-power rod with a fast-action tip is ideal for most situations.
A rod with a fast action tip will give you the sensitivity to feel the fish biting and the power to set the hook and fight the fish. A medium-light to medium power rod will give you the versatility to fish in a variety of situations and with a variety of spinnerbaits.
For the reel, a good choice would be a spinning reel with a good drag system and a high gear ratio. A high-gear ratio reel will allow you to retrieve your spinner bait quickly and make it easier to fish at faster speeds. A good drag system will allow you to fight and reel in larger fish with ease.
As for the line, monofilament or fluorocarbon lines with a test strength of 6-8 lb is a good choice. The line must be clear or match the color of the water to avoid spooking the fish.
It’s always a good idea to experiment with different rod and reel setups to find what works best for you and the type of fishing you are doing.
What is the slow rolling technique for fishing a spinnerbait?
The slow rolling technique for fishing a spinnerbait is a technique where the angler retrieves the spinnerbait at a slow and steady pace, allowing the spinnerbait to “roll” through the water. This technique is great for fishing in clear water and around structures, as it allows the spinner bait to mimic the movement of a slow-moving baitfish.
To execute the slow rolling technique, cast your spinner bait out and let it sink to the desired depth. Once the spinnerbait is on the bottom, begin reeling in slowly, keeping the rod tip low and maintaining a steady retrieve. As the spinnerbait moves through the water, the blades will begin to rotate, creating a lifelike presentation.
The key to the slow rolling technique is to maintain a steady retrieve speed and to keep the spinnerbait in the strike zone as long as possible. This can be done by reeling in slowly and pausing every now and then to allow the spinnerbait to sink back down.
This will keep the spinnerbait in the fish’s face longer and increase your chances of getting a strike. It’s also important to pay attention to the fish’s behavior, as they may prefer a slightly faster or slower retrieve speed.
What is the burning technique for fishing a spinnerbait?
The burning technique for fishing a spinnerbait is a technique where the angler retrieves the spinnerbait quickly and aggressively, creating a lot of disturbance on the surface and imitating a fleeing baitfish. This technique is great for fishing in murky or stained water, as it creates a lot of vibration and noise that can attract fish from a distance.
To execute the burning technique, cast your spinnerbait out and quickly reel it in, keeping the rod tip high and maintaining a fast retrieve. You can also make the spinnerbait move erratically by using quick twitches of the rod tip or by pausing the retrieve for a few seconds. The blades will rotate quickly, creating a lot of noise and vibration that can attract fish from a distance.
The key to the burning technique is to maintain a fast retrieve speed and to cover a lot of water quickly. This can be done by quickly reeling in and making the spinnerbait move erratically. This will create a lot of disturbance on the surface and increase your chances of getting a strike. It’s also important to pay attention to the fish’s behavior, as they may prefer a slightly faster or slower retrieve speed.
What is the pausing and twitching technique for fishing a spinnerbait?
The pausing and twitching technique for fishing a spinnerbait is a technique where the angler retrieves the spinnerbait while intermittently pausing and twitching the rod tip, creating a lifelike and erratic presentation of the bait. This technique is great for fishing in clear water and around structures, as it allows the spinnerbait to mimic the movement of a live baitfish.
To execute the pausing and twitching technique, cast your spinnerbait out and let it sink to the desired depth. Once the spinnerbait is on the bottom, begin reeling in slowly and intermittently pause the retrieve for a few seconds. Then, make small and quick twitches of the rod tip to make the spinnerbait move erratically. The blades will rotate and create a lifelike presentation of a baitfish.
The key to the pausing and twitching technique is to create an erratic and lifelike presentation of the bait. This can be done by pausing the retrieve, twitching the rod tip, and varying the retrieve speed.
This will create a lifelike movement of the spinnerbait and will increase your chances of getting a strike. It’s also important to pay attention to the fish’s behavior, as they may prefer a slightly faster or slower retrieve speed and twitching.
How can I vary the retrieve speed when fishing a spinnerbait?
Varying the retrieve speed when fishing a spinnerbait is an effective way to mimic the movement of a live baitfish and to match the fish’s feeding behavior. Here are a few ways to vary the retrieve speed when fishing a spinnerbait:
Start with a slow retrieve: Begin by reeling in the spinnerbait slowly, allowing the blades to rotate at a slow pace. This mimics the movement of a slow-moving baitfish and can be effective when fishing in clear water or around structures.
Speed up the retrieve: As you reel in the spinnerbait, gradually increase the retrieve speed. This mimics the movement of a faster-moving baitfish and can be effective when fishing in murky or stained water.
Use a stop-and-go retrieve: Alternate between reeling in the spinnerbait quickly and then pausing for a few seconds. This mimics the movement of a fleeing baitfish and can trigger a reaction strike from the fish.
Experiment with different retrieve speeds: Pay attention to the fish’s behavior and try different retrieve speeds to see what works best. Fish may prefer a slightly faster or slower retrieve speed depending on the conditions.
It’s important to note that varying the retrieve speed should be done with consideration of the situation, the water conditions, the fish’s behavior, and the type of spinnerbait you are using.
What type of line should I use when fishing with a spinnerbait?
When fishing with a spinnerbait, it’s important to use a line that can handle the weight of the spinnerbait, provide good casting distance and sensitivity, and also have good knot strength. The type of line you should use will depend on the conditions you’re fishing in and the size of the spinner bait. Here are a few types of line that are commonly used when fishing with a spinnerbait:
Monofilament: Monofilament is a popular choice when fishing with a spinnerbait. It’s a good all-around line that provides good casting distance, sensitivity, and knot strength. It’s also relatively inexpensive and easy to handle.
Fluorocarbon: Fluorocarbon is a good choice when fishing in clear water as it is virtually invisible underwater. It’s also relatively heavy, so it sinks quickly and can help the spinnerbait reach the desired depth. However, it’s more expensive than monofilament and can be stiffer, which can make casting more difficult.
Braided: Braided line is a good choice when fishing with a spinnerbait in heavy cover or around a structure. It’s strong, abrasion-resistant, and doesn’t stretch, which makes it easy to detect a bite and set the hook. However, it’s more visible in the water, which can be a disadvantage when fishing in clear water.
Hybrid: A hybrid line is a combination of a monofilament and a braided line. It offers the sensitivity and casting ability of a monofilament with the strength and abrasion resistance of a braided line. This is a good line for anglers who want the best of both worlds.
Ultimately, the best line for you will depend on the conditions you’re fishing in, the size of the spinner bait you’re using, and your personal preference. It’s a good idea to experiment with different types of lines and determine which one works best for you.
How do I choose the color and blade of a spinnerbait?
Choosing the color and blade of a spinnerbait can be an important factor in catching bass. Here are a few things to consider when making your selection:
Water conditions: The color of the water plays a big role in determining which color spinnerbait to use. In clear water, natural colors such as silver, gold, and bronze are usually the best choices. In stained or murky water, brighter colors such as chartreuse, fluorescent orange, and hot pink can be more effective.
Time of year: The color of the spinnerbait can also depend on the time of year. During the pre-spawn and spawn, darker colors like black and blue can be effective as the water is typically colder. During the summer months, lighter colors like white and chartreuse can be more effective as the water is warmer.
Blade Size: The size of the blade can also play a role in determining which spinnerbait to use. Larger blades create more vibration and flash in the water, making them effective in stained or murky water. Smaller blades create less vibration and flash, making them better for clear water.
Blade Shape: Blade shapes can also affect the action of the spinner bait. Colorado blades are wide and round, which creates a lot of vibration and flash. Willow blades are narrow and elongated, which creates less vibration and flash, but more lift and stability.
It’s worth trying different options and seeing what works best for you depending on the conditions you are fishing in and the fish’s behavior. It’s also important to note that the color and blade of the spinnerbait is not the only factor that determines its effectiveness, and other factors like the retrieve speed, rod and reel setup, and location should also be taken into consideration.
How deep should I fish a spinnerbait?
The depth at which you fish a spinnerbait can depend on a variety of factors, including the type of spinnerbait you are using, the location, and the time of year. Here are a few things to consider when determining the depth at which to fish a spinnerbait:
Type of spinnerbait: Some spinnerbaits are designed to be fished at shallower depths, while others are designed to be fished at deeper depths. For example, a spinnerbait with a smaller blade will typically fish shallower than one with a larger blade.
Location: The location where you are fishing can also play a role in determining the depth at which to fish a spinnerbait. For example, if you are fishing in a shallow, clear lake, you may want to fish your spinnerbait at a shallower depth, whereas if you are fishing in a deeper, murkier lake, you may want to fish your spinnerbait at a deeper depth.
Time of year: The time of year can also affect the depth at which you should fish a spinnerbait. During the pre-spawn and spawn, the bass may be found in shallower water, whereas during the summer months, they may be found in deeper water.
To determine the depth at which to fish a spinnerbait, you can start by casting your spinnerbait and retrieving it at different depths, paying attention to where the fish are biting. You can also use your depth finder to locate schools of fish or structures such as weed lines, drop-offs, or logs.
It’s important to note that the depth at which you fish a spinnerbait is not the only factor that determines its effectiveness, and other factors like the retrieve speed, rod and reel setup, and location should also be taken into consideration.
How do I tie a spinnerbait to my fishing line?
Tying a spinnerbait to your fishing line is a simple process that can be done using a basic knot called the “Palomar knot.” Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tie a spinnerbait to your fishing line using the Palomar knot:
Start by threading the end of your fishing line through the eye of the spinnerbait. Leave about 6 inches of tag end.
Double the tag end back over the main line and tie an overhand knot.
Hold the spinnerbait and the overhand knot with your left hand and the main line with your right hand.
Make a loop with the main line and bring the loop through the overhand knot, making sure the loop is large enough to fit over the spinnerbait.
Place the spinnerbait inside the loop, making sure the overhand knot is resting against the eye of the spinnerbait.
Hold the spinnerbait, the main line, and the loop with your left hand, and hold the tag end with your right hand.
Moisten the knot with saliva or water.
Tighten the knot by pulling the tag end and the main line in opposite directions.
Trim the tag end close to the knot.
The Palomar knot is a strong and reliable knot that is suitable for fishing with spinner bait. It is also easy to tie, even for beginners. Remember to always test your knots before fishing, to make sure they are tight and secure.
It’s also a good idea to use a good knot lubricant or saliva before tightening the knot to make it more secure. This will reduce the chances of the knot getting tangled or breaking.
