Some anglers are purists when it comes to choosing between livebait and plastics for walleye fishing. The best anglers understand that there’s a time and place for everything. Joel Nelson breaks down how he approaches the ever-debated topic of artificials vs “meat”!

When it comes to fishing, there is an ongoing debate between using live bait or plastics. Some anglers swear by live bait, while others prefer the convenience and versatility of plastics. In this article, we will explore the advantages of both options and discuss when it is best to use each one.

The Case for Live Bait

As an avid angler, I understand the appeal of using live bait, especially early in the season. Many people, including myself, have had success flipping jigs with live bait in shallow waters. The classic combination of a jig and shiners has stood the test of time because it simply works. The slow lift and drop technique, gradually working the bait back to the boat, can be highly effective when the water temperatures are 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

The Switch to Plastics

However, as the water temperatures start to climb above 55 degrees Fahrenheit, I find it beneficial to switch to plastics. There are a couple of reasons for this. First and foremost, using live bait aggressively, such as casting and ripping it, can result in losing bait more frequently. On the other hand, with plastics, you have the advantage of being able to easily rig a new one on whenever needed, without breaking the bank. If a fish takes the bait, simply throw on a new plastic and continue fishing.

Another advantage of using plastics, especially in clear water, is that it doesn’t give the fish much time to study the bait. The goal is to elicit a reaction strike, where the fish instinctively goes after the bait without much thought. By reeling in the plastic more aggressively, popping it, and even dragging it through the bottom, you can make the tail and full action of the bait work in your favor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is a time and place for both live bait and plastics in fishing. Early in the season, when the water temperatures are lower, live bait like shiners can be highly effective. However, as the temperatures rise, switching to plastics can offer advantages such as cost-effectiveness and the ability to create a reaction strike. So, whether you’re a live bait enthusiast or a plastics advocate, it’s important to adapt your fishing techniques based on the conditions and make the most of the options available to you.