Soft plastics aren’t just for bass fishing! In this video, Brett McComas shares three of his favorite, must-have walleye plastics that everyone should have in their boat. Livebait can be tough to beat in some condition, but sometimes plastics just can’t be beat.
In this article, I want to share a little secret with you. As an avid angler, I’ve discovered that using live bait is not always necessary. In fact, I’ve found that using plastics can be just as effective, if not more so. Plastics like the Impulse Plastics have made my fishing experience a lot easier and more convenient. Not only do I not have to worry about keeping them alive, but they also last a long time without smelling bad or becoming unusable. In this article, I’ll discuss why every walleye angler should consider using plastics and highlight three essential plastic baits that every angler should have in their boat.
The Advantages of Using Plastics
One of the biggest advantages of using plastics is the convenience factor. Unlike live bait, which requires constant care and attention, plastics can be stored in your boat for extended periods without any issues. You don’t have to worry about finding a bait shop that’s open or having the right bait on hand. Plastics are always ready to go whenever you want to hit the lake and start fishing.
Another advantage of using plastics is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of fishing techniques and situations. Whether you’re pulling through weeds, using bottom bouncers, or snap jigging, plastics can get the job done. They are effective in attracting not just walleyes, but also other species like bluegills, crappies, and bass.
The Three Essential Plastic Baits
Now let’s talk about the three essential plastic baits that every walleye angler should have in their boat.
- Impulse Riggin Leech: This plastic bait is perfect for spring fishing when you’re pulling through cabbage weeds. It’s designed to withstand constant pecking from various fish species, ensuring that you always have bait on your hook. With the Riggin Leech, you can save yourself the hassle of constantly rebaiting and increase your chances of catching more fish.
- Impulse 6-Inch Nightcrawler: This plastic bait is excellent for using with bottom bouncers. Similar to the Riggin Leech, it eliminates the need for rebaiting and allows you to cruise at higher speeds without worrying about losing your bait. The 6-inch Nightcrawler is packed with scent, which remains effective even after being stored for a long time. You can trust that it will attract walleyes and help you catch more fish.
- Impulse Melt: This plastic bait is my personal favorite for snap jigging or rip jigging. Its thin back provides a quick darting action on the fall, which is crucial for triggering reaction strikes from walleyes. When you’re targeting big bites in the weeds, you want the walleyes to snap and hit the bait without hesitation. The Impulse Melt is a great option for catching above-average-sized walleyes.
