Which soft baits work best for Bass Fishing?
Any suggestions on softbaits? I like to rig texas style mostly. I have had not so good luck on storm rattling worms, and other crazy softbait attempts. I am fishing a somewhat overfished area of the lake right now, due to accessability, I am sure that is a large factor. Thanks!
While fishing heavily pressured waters for bass, the key to success is a subtle presentation. By this I mean down sizing baits, hooks and line diameter. Crappie sized lures such as small tubes and grubs on 1/32 to 1/64 oz heads can make a difference when bass are constantly getting bombarded with Spinnerbaits and 7" plastic worms.
One of my most productive baits for this scenario would be a 4" Ring Worm in Pumpkin Pepper on a 1/0 hook and 3/16 oz weight Texas rigged. Or try a smoke pepper Gitzit tube. Another bait that is very good in pressured water is a 2 1/2" Gold/ Black Back floating Rapala Minnow. Another bait I've found to be very productive is a Zara Puppy in Chrome. Fish the baits with very little action, especially the topwaters. When the bass get curious as to what is in their territory they will strike at it. Don't prematurely set the hook. Wait until you feel the bass take the bait then use a sideways movement of your rod is all it takes to set the hook. The baits have small very sharp hooks and the fish will normally hook itself. For the Ring Worm fish it near any visible cover leaving it in the strike zone as long as possible. You are most likely going to be sight fishing in this setting so use finesse in your casting and don't make your presence known. If you can reach an area where you are somewhat hidden from the fishes view, like beside tall weeds or grass, you will better be able to ambush. Use a 6' medium light or light rod with 6 or 8 lb test mean green Trilene XT or Fluorocarbon line.
If you try these methods you will improve your odds dramaticaly.