Spinnerbait Blade Sizes: Master the Secret Language of Bass

Last Updated on July 22, 2024

Spinnerbait Blade Sizes

I’ve been hooked on spinnerbaits ever since I first felt that telltale thump on my line. These lures are like magic wands in the water, capable of turning a slow fishing day into an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen more times than I can count.

There’s something truly captivating about the way a spinnerbait’s blades flash and vibrate as they cut through the water. It’s like they’re speaking a secret language that bass just can’t resist. And let me tell you, once you start to decode that language, you’ll be amazed at the results.

But here’s the kicker – spinnerbaits aren’t just one-trick ponies. They’re chameleons of the fishing world, adapting to almost any situation you throw at them. From murky, cover-filled waters to crystal-clear lakes, these lures have a knack for enticing strikes when other baits fall short.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. ‘Aren’t chatterbaits all the rage these days?’ Sure, they have their place. But when it comes to versatility and proven results, spinnerbaits are still the reigning champions in my tackle box. And once you master the art of fishing them, I bet they’ll become your go-to lure too.

So, are you ready to dive into the world of spinnerbaits? Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey that’ll transform the way you approach bass fishing. From choosing the right blade size to mastering the perfect retrieve, we’re going to cover it all. Get ready to become a spinnerbait maestro!

Spinnerbait Vs Chatterbait

While both spinnerbaits and chatterbaits are longtime bass fishing staples, one bait may be the better choice depending on the fishing situation.

Spinnerbaits and chatterbaits share similarities, as they can be fished in many of the same places and cover a lot of water effectively. However, key differences can make one bait the better option.

Spinnerbaits have a subtle, natural presentation that can be effective when bass are being finicky. The spinning blade creates vibration and flash that attracts fish, but the overall profile is more subdued. Chatterbaits have a more aggressive, noisy action that can trigger reaction strikes from bass, especially when they are in a feeding mood.

The chatterbait’s unique blade design creates vibration and commotion in the water, which can be effective for drawing strikes from active, feeding bass. This can be useful in stained or murky water conditions where the extra vibration and noise helps the bait stand out.

Understanding the strengths and applications of both spinnerbaits and chatterbaits will allow anglers to choose the right tool based on the specific fishing conditions. Factors like water clarity, fish mood, and cover/structure can help determine the most effective bait.

What Weather Is Best For Spinner Bait

A spinnerbait is a versatile bait that can be effective in various weather conditions. Certain weather patterns tend to produce the best results when fishing with a spinnerbait.

Overcast, cloudy, or windy days are often ideal for using a spinnerbait. These weather conditions help break up and distort the direct sunlight, which is key for triggering strikes from bass. The spinning blade of the spinnerbait creates vibration and flash that helps attract fish, and the subdued profile works well when bass are being finicky.

Early morning and late evening hours can also be prime times to throw a spinnerbait, as the low angle of the sun creates similar lighting conditions to overcast days. The reduced sunlight penetration makes spinnerbaits more visible and appealing to bass.

In addition, spinnerbaits tend to outperform other lures in cooler water temperatures, such as in the spring and fall when water temps are in the 50-degree range. This is when bass are more likely to be actively feeding on schools of baitfish, making a spinnerbait’s profile and vibration particularly effective.

Paying attention to the weather and lighting conditions can help anglers maximize their success with a spinnerbait and catch more bass throughout the year.

When To Throw Spinnerbait Over Chatterbait

There are certain situations where I’ll choose to throw a spinnerbait over a chatterbait. One key time is when fishing in off-colored or murky water around heavy cover. Chatterbaits can get snagged in thick vegetation, while a spinnerbait’s weedless design allows it to come through the cover more cleanly.

The spinning blade of a spinnerbait creates vibration and flash that can be effective at drawing strikes from bass in low visibility conditions. The spinnerbait’s profile stands out better and triggers more reaction strikes from the fish.

I also tend to favor a spinnerbait over a chatterbait when the water temperatures are on the cooler side, like in the spring and fall. That’s when the bass are more likely to be actively feeding on schools of baitfish, and the spinnerbait’s lifelike action and vibration can be tough for them to resist.

Both chatterbaits and spinnerbaits are productive lures that have accounted for tournament wins. Knowing the right situations to use each one can give you an edge and help you catch more fish. It’s about matching the right bait to the conditions.

How To Stop Spinnerbait From Sliding

One effective technique to stop a spinnerbait from sliding is the slow-roll retrieve. I cast the spinnerbait to the targeted area and use a slow, controlled retrieve. After every 5-6 winds of the reel, I quickly lift my rod tip up to let the spinnerbait flutter back down towards the bottom. This helps keep the bait in the strike zone for longer and prevents it from sliding too quickly across the surface.

Another trick is to keep my rod tip high, around 45-50 degrees, while reeling quickly. This helps avoid the spinnerbait from digging into the bottom and getting hung up on cover or structure. The faster retrieve combined with the elevated rod tip keeps the bait up off the bottom and moving at an enticing pace for the bass.

These adjustments to the retrieve can make a big difference in keeping the spinnerbait from sliding too quickly through the water and missing those key reaction strikes from the fish. It’s about finding the perfect balance of speed and control to maximize the effectiveness of this versatile lure.

Do I Need A Trailer On My Spinner Bait

Using a trailer hook on your spinnerbait is highly recommended, especially when fishing in tournaments. The trailer hook can make a difference in landing that last crucial fish that could win or lose the tournament.

Even in thick cover, the trailer hook helps avoid losing many lures to hang-ups. The trailer hook catches fish that strike at the lure from a distance and wouldn’t be hooked by the primary hook alone.

It’s a simple addition that can have a big impact on your catch rate. I always attach a free-swinging trailer hook to the center of the primary hook’s curve on my spinnerbaits. This extra hook gives more confidence in successfully setting the hook and landing the bass when they strike.

The trailer hook is one way to customize a spinnerbait to match the specific conditions. By paying attention to the water depth, cover, and structure, you can rig your spinnerbait to entice bass to bite.

Spinnerbaits Vs. Chatterbaits

While both spinnerbaits and chatterbaits are longtime bass fishing lures, there are key differences that can impact their effectiveness in certain situations.

Spinnerbaits feature spinning metal blades that create vibration and flash to attract fish. Chatterbaits have a hinged blade that thumps and vibrates, making them more effective in stained or dirty water where the added thump helps draw strikes.

However, spinnerbaits have a wider range of applications. Their spinning blades allow them to be fished effectively around thick cover like matted vegetation or downed timber, where a chatterbait’s thumping action may get hung up more easily. Spinnerbaits can also be worked at various speeds, from slow to fast, making them versatile for different water depths and conditions.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each lure type can help anglers choose the better option for the specific fishing scenario. Factors like water clarity, cover, and fish location should guide the decision between a spinnerbait or chatterbait.

Spinnerbaits & Spinnerbait Fishing

Spinnerbaits are a versatile and effective lure for catching bass year-round. These lures feature a metal shaft with 2-3 spinning metal plates that create vibration and flash as they are retrieved through the water. This flash and vibration helps draw the attention of bass and other large freshwater fish, making spinnerbaits a go-to choice for many anglers.

Spinnerbaits can be fished in a wide variety of conditions. They work well in clear, shallow water less than 10 feet deep, but can also be effective in deeper, murkier water. Spinnerbaits can be retrieved at different speeds, from slow to fast, allowing them to be used in a range of scenarios.

Another advantage of spinnerbaits is their ability to be fished around thick cover like matted vegetation or downed timber. The spinning blades allow the lure to be worked through these areas without getting hung up as easily as some other lures. This makes spinnerbaits a great choice when targeting bass relating to heavy cover.

Spinnerbaits are a highly versatile and effective lure that deserve a spot in every bass angler’s tackle box. Their ability to catch fish in a wide variety of conditions is a big part of why they are considered one of the most useful and productive bass fishing lures available.

Spinnerbaits In Spring

When the weather warms in spring, spinnerbaits become one of the best lures for targeting bass. As baitfish and forage move into the shallows, bass follow to feed. Spinnerbaits excel at mimicking these moving baitfish and can be fished at various depths.

Spinnerbaits are versatile – they can be fished slow or fast, through thick cover or open water. This allows anglers to cover a lot of water and find where the bass are staging. The flash and vibration of the spinning blades draw the bass’ attention, especially in stained or murky spring water.

One effective spring technique is targeting areas where baitfish are moving, like creek channels, points, and spawning flat edges. Working a spinnerbait through these zones, varying retrieve speed and depth, often triggers bites as bass relate to the cover and structure.

Spinnerbaits are a spring fishing staple. Their ability to cover water and trigger strikes from active, aggressive bass makes them one of the most productive lures this time of year.

Largemouth Spinnerbait Color Scheming

When it comes to spinnerbait color selection for largemouth bass, it’s best to keep it simple and focus on a few key colors that work well. For stained or murky water, a black or dark colored spinnerbait provides the necessary contrast to help the bass locate the bait, even in low visibility conditions.

In clearer water, more natural, translucent colors like a shad or alewife pattern are preferred. These mimic the baitfish the bass are feeding on and don’t spook them as much. A classic chartreuse and white combo is also a proven producer in a variety of water conditions.

The key is matching the water clarity and light penetration. The clearer the water, the more subtle the color scheme should be. In dingy water, you want that flash and contrast to draw the bass’ attention. Experiment to see what the fish are responding to on any given day, but those core color patterns are a great place to start for targeting largemouth with spinnerbaits.

Spinnerbaits Colors

Spinnerbaits come in a rainbow of color options, but the key is matching the color to the water conditions. In stained or murky water, bolder, high-contrast colors like black, chartreuse, and white work well, helping the bait stand out. A black spinnerbait can be especially effective for night fishing or dingy water.

In clearer water, more natural, translucent colors that mimic the baitfish tend to be more productive, as they don’t spook the bass as much. Shad or alewife-inspired color schemes, as well as a classic chartreuse and white combination, can be very effective across a variety of water conditions.

The key is experimenting to see what the fish are responding to on any given day. However, the core color patterns – bold and high-contrast for stained water, more subtle and natural for clear water – are a great starting point for targeting largemouth bass.

FAQ:

When To Use Crankbaits

One of the best times to use crankbaits is during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods when bass are transitioning between their breeding grounds and summer homes. During these times, the bass are typically very active and can often be found near weeds, rocks, and other shallow water structures. Crankbaits with a single hook design work well in these situations, as they help reduce hang-ups on nearby cover.

Another great time to use crankbaits is in the late fall and early winter when the water starts to cool down. As the bass prepare for the colder months ahead, they become more aggressive and tend to key in on larger baitfish. A crankbait’s ability to mimic these bigger prey makes it an excellent choice during this time of year. The bass are saying, “Winter’s coming and I need to eat!” and will readily strike at a well-presented crankbait.

Crankbaits can be a very effective lure when the conditions are right. By paying attention to the bass’ seasonal feeding patterns and habitat preferences, anglers can maximize their chances of success when throwing these hard-bodied lures.

How To Fish A Chatterbait

Fishing a ChatterBait requires a few key considerations. First, work the bait properly with a steady, medium-paced retrieve, allowing the vibrating blade to do its job. The key is maintaining a consistent pace – not too fast, not too slow.

These baits excel in areas with ample cover, such as heavy vegetation, docks, or rock piles. The vibration and flash of the ChatterBait can draw strikes from bass holding tight to that cover. Work it around the edges of weed beds or through openings in the vegetation.

Vary the retrieve, sometimes with a steady pull, other times adding twitches or pauses. Pay attention to how the fish are reacting and adjust accordingly. If they seem to want a more erratic presentation, work the ChatterBait with more rod tip movement. For a more subtle approach, keep the retrieve steady.

The key to fishing a ChatterBait effectively is adaptability and experimentation to find what the fish want on a given day. It’s a versatile bait that can be used in various situations, so don’t hesitate to try it out.

How To Use A Spinner Bait

When fishing with a spinner bait, consider the right size and weight for the water depth and current conditions. This allows the bait to move naturally and effectively through the water.

Try different color and style options to suit the fishing situation. The flash and vibration of the spinner bait can be enticing to fish, but the right color and profile make a difference.

Allow the bait to sink before starting the retrieve. Gradually bring the spinner bait back at a steady, moderate pace. This allows the blade to spin and create the vibration that attracts fish.

When a fish hits the bait, set the hook firmly and reel it in. Using a single-hook spinner bait can help reduce snags and hang-ups on cover or structure.

Pay attention to the size, color, and presentation of the spinner bait, as well as setting the hook properly, to successfully catch fish with this versatile lure.

How To Catch A Fish With Spinner Bait

When fishing with a spinner bait, the key is to work it properly through the water. Start with a long cast, giving the bait plenty of distance to perform. Once it hits the water, let the spinner bait sink down a bit before starting the retrieve.

Slowly reel in the slack line, lifting your rod tip from about 9 o’clock to 12 o’clock. This allows the blades to spin and create the signature vibration that attracts fish. Keep constant tension on the line – you want the bait moving steadily back to you.

When a fish hits, set the hook firmly and reel it in. I’ve caught some of my biggest bass using this spinner bait presentation. It’s about working the bait just right to get those fish to strike. Take your time, let the spinner bait do its thing, and get ready for an exciting fight.

What Is The Best Color Spinnerbait

The best color spinnerbait depends on the water conditions. In muddy or murky water, use a darker color like black, blue, or purple. These stand out more, helping bass locate the bait. Use Colorado blades in these conditions.

In clearer water, more subtle, natural colors like clear shad or chartreuse and white work well. The clearer the water, the less the fish should see of the bait, allowing you to fish it faster. In muddier water, use more contrast and color to attract bass.

I often start with a white or light-colored spinnerbait, as those work well in almost any conditions. White is a great all-around color. I’ll also try a darker or chartreuse color if the bass aren’t biting the white. The key is to experiment to see what the fish respond to on a given day.

How To Use A Spinnerbait

Spinnerbaits are a versatile lure that can be fished in a variety of ways. I like to start by casting it out and letting it sink for a few seconds before slowly retrieving it back. This allows the blades to start spinning and creates a nice, enticing vibration in the water.

As I’m retrieving the spinnerbait, I’ll vary my speed and cadence. Sometimes I’ll do a steady, moderate retrieve. Other times I’ll do a stop-and-go retrieve, pausing the lure for a moment before picking up the pace again. This can help trigger strikes from bass that are a little more lethargic.

Another effective technique is to cast the spinnerbait out and let it sink to the bottom, then slowly drag it back, keeping the blades spinning the whole time. This can be deadly around cover like fallen trees or submerged vegetation. Just be sure to keep a tight line so you can feel the lure ticking off the bottom.

No matter how I’m fishing it, I always keep my eye on the spinnerbait’s blades, making sure they are spinning freely. If they ever stop spinning, I’ll give the lure a little twitch to get them going again. Keeping those blades spinning is key to triggering those explosive strikes from bass.

Best Spinnerbaits For Fishing

Spinnerbaits are a go-to lure for catching bass. They work especially well in clear, shallow water less than 10 feet deep. The spinning metal plates catch the sunlight and create an enticing vibration that draws in bass.

Some favorite spinnerbait models include the Mustad Arm Lock Spinnerbait, the Strike King Red Eye Special, and the MONSTERBASS Blade Spinnerbait. Varying the retrieve, from a steady moderate pace to a stop-and-go technique with pauses, can trigger strikes. Keeping a close eye on the blades and giving the lure a little twitch if they stop spinning is also effective.

Spinnerbaits are a versatile bait that can be used as a fish finder, worked in deep water, or ripped through the shallows. Anglers can fish them exclusively and still catch a great stringer of bass day after day. Those who haven’t tried spinnerbaits should add a few to their tackle box.

What Is The Best Bass Lure For An Overcast Day

On overcast days, dark colored spinnerbaits work best for catching bass. The dimmer water conditions make it easier for bass to locate and strike the lure. Dark spinnerbaits stand out more against the cloudy background, making them more visible to the bass. The key is choosing a lure that the bass can easily spot and identify as prey. Bass rely more on their keen eyesight to hunt when the sun is obscured by clouds, so a dark spinnerbait that resembles their natural baitfish prey is the way to go. Black and blue or black and chartreuse spinnerbait models have been successful on overcast days, as the bass seem to key in on those darker, more contrasting colors when the light is low.

Best Spinnerbait Rods

When it comes to the best rods for fishing spinnerbaits, I have a few favorites. The Wright & McGill Skeet Reese Tessera rods – a 6 1/2 or 7 foot medium heavy rod – provide great control and casting distance. The fast tip and backbone help work the bait effectively.

I prefer a heavier action rod for spinnerbaits, as opposed to a more lightweight option. The extra backbone handles the weight of the lure without feeling overpowered. A rod in the 7’5″ range with a fast tip is ideal.

Molix makes excellent spinnerbait-specific rods. Their Venator Double Willow models come in 1/2 and 5/8 ounce sizes, covering common spinnerbait weights. The vertical presentation and customizability of Molix baits make them a go-to.

The key is finding a rod with the right length, power, and action to comfortably work a spinnerbait. A medium heavy 6 1/2 to 7 foot rod with a fast tip seems to be the sweet spot, providing control over the bait without feeling undergunned.

Mastering the Art of Spinnerbait Fishing

Spinnerbaits have been a game-changer in my bass fishing journey. I’ve seen firsthand how these versatile lures can turn a slow day on the water into an action-packed adventure. The key? Adaptability. Whether I’m facing murky waters or crystal-clear lakes, there’s always a way to make spinnerbaits work their magic.

I’ve learned that success with spinnerbaits isn’t just about the lure itself – it’s about understanding the environment and the fish’s behavior. Those overcast days that some anglers dread? They’re prime time for spinnerbait action. And don’t get me started on the thrill of slow-rolling a spinnerbait through cover during those cooler months.

But here’s the real secret: it’s all about experimentation. I can’t count the number of times I’ve switched up my retrieve speed or blade color and suddenly started getting hits. It’s like solving a puzzle, and when you crack the code, it’s incredibly rewarding.

So, fellow anglers, I encourage you to embrace the spinnerbait. Play with different colors, try various retrieves, and don’t be afraid to fish it in unexpected places. Who knows? Your next cast could lead to the catch of a lifetime. Now, grab your gear and hit the water – those bass aren’t going to catch themselves!