Northland Fishing Tackle has unveiled its latest innovation, the Elite Pro Sunny B Deep, as part of their new Elite Series Hardbaits aimed at enhancing the bass fishing experience. This release follows the success of the 2023 BASSMASTER CLASSIC winning Smeltinator® and showcases a combination of unique designs and advanced technology to cater to bass enthusiasts.
"This crankbait takes the popular Pro Sunny B to new depths of 10- to 12-feet," said Charlie Peterson, Northland Marketing Manager and club tournament bass angler.
"This crankbait takes the popular Pro Sunny B to new depths of 10- to 12-feet,"
The Elite Pro Sunny B Deep is engineered with a modern design that retains the beloved qualities of traditional balsa lures. Utilizing Northland’s Heat-Compression Molding (HCM) process, this advanced construction method offers enhanced consistency while maintaining the classic balsa performance. Weighing just half an ounce and measuring three inches, this lure is particularly effective in cold-water conditions and during periods when fish are under pressure.
Peterson elaborated on the bait's functionality, stating, "With its unique lip design, the new Northland PRO SUNNY B DEEP starts diving the moment you turn the reel handle with a nice, tight action, but in a smaller balsa crankbait profile than most hardbaits available in this depth range."
Adding to its appeal, Northland ensured these lures come equipped with premium #4 Gamakatsu treble hooks, making them ready for tournament competition right out of the package. The Elite Pro Sunny B Deep is showcased alongside six must-have colors tailored for anglers across different seasons and bass behaviors.
Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson, the champion angler who endorsed this line, shared his personal insights regarding the design. "When it comes to cranks, the Bagley Sunny B family has always been a favorite. They've caught fish for a long time. I’ve done well with them up north for smallies, cold-water largemouths in the south, and spotted bass, too," he remarked, emphasizing the lure's versatility.
Discussing its effectiveness, Gussy noted, "As far as the new Northland PRO SUNNY B DEEP, I think it’s going to excel in cold water as fish are transitioning from deep to shallow in spring, besides deeper summer and fall fish. And I think it’s going to be a good big bass bait. So I’m definitely going to have a couple tied on for the Classic."
When it came to color choices, Gussy aimed for simplicity, focusing on what he considers essential for tournament success. "I wanted to give anglers the six colors they really need from south to north, whether you’re on a craw, shad, or bluegill bite. Right now, spring in the south, the brown and red craw colors are typical choices, but we’ve got some good shad patterns, too, so I’ll have one of each ready on deck," he indicated.
The range includes colors like Blue Chartruse Shad, Injured Shad, and Cooked Crawdad, reflecting Gussy's practical selection process. Additionally, he praised the bait's finesse qualities, highlighting its smaller profile as beneficial in cold, spring water temps.
Gussy strongly advocated for the inclusion of tournament-quality treble hooks in these hardbaits. "Unlike some baits, these cranks are ready to go right out of the package, no messing with split ring pliers and sizing up or down—or to a different brand of hook. The #4 Gamakatsu trebles are super strong, sharp, and good to go," he asserted.
In terms of manufacturing, Gussy acknowledged the rigorous testing involved in each lure design. "Without getting into a ton of science, Heat Compression Molding (HCM) ensures every Northland hardbait is properly weighted, balanced, and strong—and runs with the right action and wobble for the model," he stated, reiterating the brand's commitment to quality.
"Without getting into a ton of science, Heat Compression Molding (HCM) ensures every Northland hardbait is properly weighted, balanced, and strong—and runs with the right action and wobble for the model,"
As Northland Fishing Tackle launches the Elite Pro Sunny B Deep, the anticipation builds among anglers for its performance in various conditions. With Gussy Gustafson backing these lures, it's evident that Northland aims to cater to both tournament-ready fishermen and local enthusiasts alike, ensuring an exhilarating fishing season ahead.
