Catching trophy bass often revolves around the lure selection, specifically the size of the bait. Anglers have increasingly turned to larger lures like glide baits, wakebaits, and oversized swimbaits to entice these elusive fish. "Big baits catch big bass. It's that simple," said Shaye Baker, a seasoned angler who has embraced this trend.
While the principle of using big baits is straightforward, timing and technique play crucial roles in hooking those prized catches. Baker noted that there are certain scenarios in which bass are more inclined to bite on larger baits. "If you can dial in on these times and learn how to fish these baits properly, the chances of you hooking into a lunker are high.”
The growing popularity of oversized lures among anglers in regions like the Southeast has prompted many to reconsider their bait choices. Baker shared his own experience: "Some of my biggest bites in recent memory have come on oversized lures, and it's a tactic that I am pretty serious about." While the price tag for some of these lures can be quite high, the market does offer affordable entry-level options for those tempted to explore this fishing style.
Understanding what constitutes a "big bait" is vital. "For the purposes of this conversation, I'm referring to big baits as anything in the 6- to 9-inch range," explained Baker. This size is ideal for targeting various bass species, from spotted to largemouth and smallmouth bass. Despite their size, these lures can be relatively easy to manage, often provoking aggressive strikes from larger bass, and even smaller ones sometimes take the bait.
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Glide baits can produce impressive results when fished correctly. Baker recommends the Spro KGB Chad Shad 180 as the best glide bait option for enthusiasts. Its slow, sweeping side-to-side motion mimics natural prey and can effectively draw bass from several yards away. "The action of a glide bait is better generated by the turn of the reel handle," he noted.
"The action of a glide bait is better generated by the turn of the reel handle,"
Impact and Legacy
To achieve the ideal action, it helps to utilize quick, partial turns of your reel, giving the bait a start-stop cadence that mimics the movement of distressed prey. According to Baker, the length and shape of the glide bait greatly influence its action. "Shorter glide baits with taller bodies have a choppy, quicker motion, while more elongated baits glide wider and slower.”
Gear selection is another critical component for success when using glide baits. Baker suggests opting for a slower gear ratio reel in the 6:1 range to enhance the natural feel of the bait’s movement. "Stepping up to a 300 size reel for the bigger lures is a good idea," he advised. When fishing baits heavier than 3 ounces, a 300 size baitcaster is recommended, while a 200 size reel may suffice for smaller lures.
"Stepping up to a 300 size reel for the bigger lures is a good idea,"
The fishing rod also requires appropriate weight ratings to handle the lure effectively, combining strength with a little flexibility to ensure a good hook set. Baker emphasized that proper rod and reel combinations, alongside meticulously figured fishing techniques, are essential for successful big bait angling.
In summary, fishing big baits involves not just selecting the right gear but also mastering the techniques that make these lures come to life. With patience and practice, anglers can increase their chances of landing that elusive trophy bass. As Baker concluded, “It’s about putting the right tactics into play at the right time.”
