Early Season Bass
Early Season Bass fishing is one of Al Linder’s favorite things to do by himself.
For years the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) has been trying to figure out how to grow the sport of angling.
While the COVID-19 pandemic, unfortunately, hurt numerous businesses, it has helped drive more people to the outdoors. Outdoor activities like fishing, camping, hunting, bicycling has seen a tremendous increase in participation throughout the 2020 season. States all across the country saw as much of a 25-30 % increase in fishing license sales. In recent years we’ve seen also seen exponential growth in high school and collegiate fishing teams.
With all this, we have to be aware of the increased pressure on our fisheries. Our department of natural resources will have to focus on harvest management, slot limits, public accesses, AIS issues, and tournament permits based on the fact we have far more people utilizing these limited water resources. Let’s join Al Lindner with more on social distancing for bass.
Early season bass fishing can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. One effective technique that can help you catch more fish is using boot tail plastics or button tail plastics on jigs. In this article, we will explore the nuances of throwing boot tails and how they can improve your Early Season Bassfishing success.
Understanding Boot Tail Plastics
Boot tail plastics, also known as button tail plastics, are a unique soft plastic shape that can be highly effective in certain Early Season Bass fishing situations. While some may think that there isn’t much to this shape, there are actually some subtle things to be aware of.
Different Shapes and Sizes
Boot tail plastics come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own advantages. Long, slender baits with smaller tails, like the Big Bite Cane Thumper, are more subtle and can be extremely effective when bass are neutral or negative. On the other hand, large, fat plastics with oversized tails, often ribbed, allow you to fish the bait much slower, keeping it suspended in the strike zone for longer periods of time.
Versatility and Flexibility
One of the key advantages of boot tail plastics is their versatility and flexibility. They can be fished in a variety of conditions and cover, making them a great choice for different types of water bodies. Whether you’re Early Season Bass fishing in wood, lily pads, rocks, weeds, or in deep or shallow water, boot tail plastics can be effective.
Spinnerbait vs. Bladed Jig
When it comes to choosing between a spinnerbait and a bladed jig, both can be effective, but spinnerbaits offer more versatility. While bladed jigs are hot in the fishing world right now, spinning baits have stood the test of time and continue to produce results. They can be used in a wide range of conditions and are especially effective in temperatures around 55 degrees and below.
Rigging and Tackle
To effectively fish boot tail plastics, it’s important to have the right rigging and tackle. Many anglers prefer to use baitcasting rods, such as the Mojo Bass 6’8″ medium-heavy from St. Croix, paired with a Daiwa Tatula Standard 6.3 reel. It’s also recommended to use 14 to 17-pound Suffix fluorocarbon line for optimal performance.
The Importance of Spot Lock
Spot Lock, a feature found in Minn Kota trolling motors, is a game-changer for bass anglers. It allows you to anchor your boat in a specific spot, even in windy conditions, so you can thoroughly fish an area without drifting away. Spot Lock can be especially effective when you find a productive spot and want to maximize your catch.
The Evolution of Terminator Spinnerbaits
Terminator spinnerbaits have been a staple in the Early Season Bass fishing industry for many years. They continue to innovate and improve their spinnerbaits, making them even more effective. The recent redesign of their spinnerbaits has made an already great bait even better. The new design features unique ideas that enhance the bait’s performance and increase your chances of catching more fish.
Remember, early season bass fishing can be challenging, but with the right techniques and equipment, you can increase your chances of success. Consider using boottail plastics on jigs, and take advantage of the versatility of spinnerbaits.
