Most folks subscribe to the old adage “big baits catch big fish” – and while that can be true for many species of fish, smallmouth seem to be an exception. Sure, they’ll bite larger lures (swimbaits, jerkbaits, etc.), but they seem to LOVE smaller finesse-style baits. Hair jigs, small swimbaits, dropshots, small tubes, ned rigs and grubs all seem to work great on most days.
Introduction
In this article, we will discuss a highly effective technique for catching shallow, finicky pre-spawn fish using small lures. While many anglers limit themselves to fishing with hair jigs only during the pre-spawn period, these versatile lures can be used throughout the year. By expanding your options and fishing in deeper water, you can greatly increase your chances of success. In addition to hair jigs, we will also explore other bait options such as finesse swim baits and grubs. So let’s dive in and learn more about these small lures that can catch big fish!
Hair Jigging for Pre-Spawn Bass
Hair jigs are a popular choice for targeting pre-spawn bass, especially in colder and shallower water. However, they can be effective in various conditions and depths. To maximize your chances of success, consider fishing with hair jigs in water depths ranging from 8 to 15 feet. One effective technique is to drag the hair jig along the bottom. This can be done by making long casts and letting out some line, allowing the jig to slowly sink and imitate a natural prey. This presentation is similar to dragging a tube on the bottom, a technique commonly used in the Great Lakes.
One of the advantages of using a hair jig is its subtle presentation. It is one of the most finesse bass presentations available, making it a great choice for targeting finicky fish. While hair jigs are often associated with pre-spawn fishing, they can be used throughout the year to catch bass.
Other Bait Options
While hair jigs are effective, they are not the only option for targeting pre-spawn bass. Finesse swim baits and grubs can also be effective, depending on the target depth. For finesse swim baits, consider using the VMC Halfmoon and finesse Halfmoon jig in weights ranging from 1/16 to 1/8 ounce. Some anglers may think these heads are too light for early season cool water conditions, but fishing slow-moving baits is critical during this time.
When it comes to soft baits, options like the 3.5 Big Bite Suicide Shad, Cane Thumper, or a grub can be effective. When choosing plastic colors, it is often best to pick natural colors that match the water color. This can help increase your chances of enticing a bite from pre-spawn bass.
Small Tubes for Bottom Fishing
Another bait option for targeting pre-spawn bass is small tubes. Big Bite’s two and a half inch tube is a popular choice. When fishing with tubes, it is important to use lightweight heads, such as the 1/16 and 1/8 ounce finesse Halfmoon jig. This minimizes the chances of getting hung up on zebra mussel encrusted rocks, which can be common in certain areas.
When fishing with tubes, the best retrieve is often to simply drag the bait along the bottom. This technique is best executed with long, parabolic rods that have a softer action. By dragging the tube on the bottom, you can imitate a natural prey and entice pre-spawn bass to strike.
Choosing the Right Gear
When fishing with small lures like hair jigs, finesse swim baits, and grubs, it is important to have the right gear. A hair jig drop shot rod and reel setup is ideal for casting lightweight baits like hair jigs. The rod should have a parabolic, softer action to allow for accurate and delicate casts. Pair it with a reel that has a smooth drag system to handle the fight of big bass.
It is also important to consider the line setup when fishing with small lures. Many anglers prefer to use a bright-colored braid as their main line, followed by a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader. The bright-colored braid helps to distinguish subtle strikes, especially when the bait is not moving quickly. The length of the leader can vary, but a 10-pound fluorocarbon leader of around 7 to 15 feet is a common choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fishing with small lures like hair jigs, finesse swim baits, and grubs can be a highly effective technique for targeting shallow, finicky pre-spawn bass. While hair jigs are often associated with pre-spawn fishing, they can be used throughout the year in various depths. By expanding your options and trying different bait presentations, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to choose natural colors that match the water color and use lightweight heads to minimize hang-ups when fishing with small tubes. With the right gear and techniques, you can catch big bass even in challenging conditions. So get out there and give these small lures a try!
