Beginner's Tacklebox Archives - Bassmaster https://www.bassmaster.com Pro Bass Tournament Fishing, Bass Fishing Tips & News Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:26:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://www.bassmaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/bass-favicon-removebg-preview.png?w=32 Beginner's Tacklebox Archives - Bassmaster https://www.bassmaster.com 32 32 206333197 Beginner’s Tacklebox: Todd Auten https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-todd-auten/ Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:26:20 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=1021033
Bassmaster Elite Series pro Todd Auten takes a specific approach when choosing his tackle for a fishing trip in the fall. When it comes to fall fishing, Lake Murray is usually his top choice when he isn’t tournament fishing.  
Auten understands that fishing during the fall can mean anything. Fish can be a lot less predictable and harder to come by. To navigate this, he has six essential lures used for locating fish, searching different environments and hitting every level of the water column. “Once I find an area or depth that seems to hold fish, I can focus more on that area and start figuring out the most effective way to catch them.”
Take a look at Auten’s top six picks for fall fishing and searching for those hard-to-get bass.
Auten’s first pick is a jerkbait for fishing deeper channel swing banks towards the back of creeks. This allows him to cover a lot of water and search for those fish that haven’t moved out yet.
His jerkbait of choice is a Livingston Jerkmaster, using colors that mimic the baitfish in that area.
His second pick is a topwater walking bait. “This is a killer bait in the fall when the water hasn’t gotten too cold, and the fish are still schooling. This is another lure that allows me to cover a lot of water on points and in the back of pockets.”
This is a Livingston Walking Boss in the pure bone shad color.
Pick three is a spinnerbait. This is a lure that can be very versatile and used in various levels of the water column. “This is one of my favorite ways to catch them, especially when using it to fish the edges of grass beds.”
This is a 1/2-ounce War Eagle spinnerbait in the blue herring color.
Pick four is a ChatterBait. “I use this around wood structures and docks, especially when the water is stained. I also prefer using a gold blade a lot of the time.”
This is a 1/2-ounce gold bladed ChatterBait. He uses white and chartreuse colors in stained water and moves towards more translucent colors in clearer water. 
Pick number five is a jig. “This is something I have tied on at all times of the year, and I use it a lot in the fall.” This is his primary choice for dock fishing and covering shallow water structures with a slower approach.  
This is a 1/2-ounce Shooter Lures jig with an arkie style head in the crawdaddy color. He usually pairs this with a Zoom Z Craw Jr. trailer.
Auten’s final pick is a Water Wood crankbait. “This lure allows me to easily explore different depth ranges and colors. I use them a lot around creek bends and different structures.”
The Water Wood crankbaits have a depth range of 3 to 5 feet. He switches between colors, using shad colors when he knows fish are schooling and crawfish colors when notices the fish feeding on crawfish. Auten sells Water Wood Custom crankbaits on his new online tackle store at autenspecialtybaits.com.
That wraps up Auten’s beginner’s tacklebox.
This selection of lures is everything you need to get started fishing in the fall. 
]]> 1021033 Beginner’s Tacklebox: Clent Davis https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-clent-davis/ Thu, 16 Jun 2022 14:23:21 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=1032079
Bassmaster Elite Series pro Clent Davis starts out with an empty Gamakatsu tackle box.
Davis’ first bait of choice is a Yo-Zuri 3DS Series Crankbait, or as he calls it – the Autobass.
“This would be the first bait I’d give to someone who has never fished before,” he said. “It’s a small crankbait that can imitate any king of baitfish.”
His second bait of choice is a Nichols Lures 33 Mini Double Willow Spinnerbait, which is a smaller profile spinnerbait that weighs 1/4 ounce.
“It’s just a smaller spinnerbait that is going to be great for catching a lot of fish, especially in ponds or smaller bodies of water.”
The third bait Davis reaches for is the Yo-Zuri 3DB Series Jerkbait.
“To me, a jerkbait is a pretty simple bait to work for a beginner to work,” he said. “A jerkbait probably catches more fish than any other bait in bass fishing.”
Davis opts for a topwater next by picking up the Yo-Zuri 3DR Series Pencil.
“There’s no better way to catch a bass than on a topwater,” said Davis. “This bait has a smaller profile, so it gets a lot of bites.”
Before getting into the soft plastics, Davis suggests that beginners get a pack of versatile worm hooks. He prefers a Gamakatsu Offset Shank Worm Hook.
“It’s the most versatile hook there is for bass fishing,” he said.
Davis’ first go-to soft plastic is a Mister Twister Tri-Alive Night Crawler 6.5-inch worm.
For his secondary soft plastic, Davis goes with a Mister Twister Buzz Bug.
“The straight tail worm is probably the most effective bait ever created for catching bass,” Davis said. “There’s a lot of different ways an angler can rig these two soft plastics.”
Not only are these baits good for beginners, but they are also baits that Davis relies on during Elite Series competition as well.
]]> 1032079 Beginner’s Tacklebox: Justin Atkins https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-justin-atkins/ Tue, 27 Jul 2021 20:45:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=357325 Bassmaster Elite Series pro Justin Atkins is about to fill this Lure Lock utility box with his choices of baits for a beginner’s tacklebox.
Bassmaster Elite Series pro Justin Atkins is about to fill this Lure Lock utility box with his choices of baits for a beginner’s tacklebox.
First to go in the box is a Berkley Choppo 105. “Everybody needs a topwater bait to cover the top of the water column,” said the pro from Florence, Ala. “Plus, topwater fishing is a fun way to get beginners hooked on fishing.”
First to go in the box is a Berkley Choppo 105. “Everybody needs a topwater bait to cover the top of the water column,” said the pro from Florence, Ala. “Plus, topwater fishing is a fun way to get beginners hooked on fishing.”
The cupped propeller tail creates an enticing plopping sound and spray that calls fish to the surface to strike. Precision weighting ensures that the tail begins spinning immediately, and it swims perfectly straight at a variety of speeds. Color of choice is MF Shad, chosen to imitate a wounded shad.
The cupped propeller tail creates an enticing plopping sound and spray that calls fish to the surface to strike. Precision weighting ensures that the tail begins spinning immediately, and it swims perfectly straight at a variety of speeds. Color of choice is MF Shad, chosen to imitate a wounded shad.
Next to go in the box is a Berkley Squarebull 5.5, a 2 3/8-inch bait weighing 3/8 ounce and designed to run 3- to 6-feet deep. “You can fish it from the bank, and it’s designed to make contact with cover,” he said. “It’s just a good all-around bait for getting their attention.”
Next to go in the box is a Berkley Squarebull 5.5, a 2 3/8-inch bait weighing 3/8 ounce and designed to run 3- to 6-feet deep. “You can fish it from the bank, and it’s designed to make contact with cover,” he said. “It’s just a good all-around bait for getting their attention.”
The shallow-running bait features a durable square bill that is built for banging against wood and rock to trigger reaction strikes. The bait is armed with two razor-sharp Fusion19 treble hooks to keep bass hooked up. Big Money is his color of choice.
The shallow-running bait features a durable square bill that is built for banging against wood and rock to trigger reaction strikes. The bait is armed with two razor-sharp Fusion19 treble hooks to keep bass hooked up. Big Money is his color of choice.
Next up is an all-time favorite. It’s a Berkley PowerBait Power Worm. “The ribbon-tail design makes it ideal for a swimming action, and you can fish it shallow, deep, over suspended fish, just about anywhere,” he said.
Next up is an all-time favorite. It’s a Berkley PowerBait Power Worm. “The ribbon-tail design makes it ideal for a swimming action, and you can fish it shallow, deep, over suspended fish, just about anywhere,” he said.
“I don’t put my boat in the water without a Power Worm tied on,” he said. Blue Fleck is his color of choice.
“I don’t put my boat in the water without a Power Worm tied on,” he said. Blue Fleck is his color of choice.
Another similar choice is this Berkley PowerBait Bottom Hopper Worm, rigged to a 3/16-ounce Berkley Fusion19 Shakey Head. “It can be fished on spinning or casting tackle, and is a good all-purpose bait,” he said. “The bait stands up on the bottom for enticing action.” Color of choice is black.
Another similar choice is this Berkley PowerBait Bottom Hopper Worm, rigged to a 3/16-ounce Berkley Fusion19 Shakey Head. “It can be fished on spinning or casting tackle, and is a good all-purpose bait,” he said. “The bait stands up on the bottom for enticing action.” Color of choice is black.
Next up is a 1/2-ounce Berkley Warpig,
Next up is a 1/2-ounce Berkley Warpig,
“A lipless crankbait is the perfect bait for beginners, because it can be cast out and retrieved back at any speed,” he said. “It’s easy to cast, easy to fish, and can be fished at any depth.”
“A lipless crankbait is the perfect bait for beginners, because it can be cast out and retrieved back at any speed,” he said. “It’s easy to cast, easy to fish, and can be fished at any depth.”
Special Red Craw pattern is his color of choice.
Special Red Craw pattern is his color of choice.
“Every beginner’s tacklebox needs a bladed jig,” he said. And with that, a Z-Man Evergreen ChatterBait Jack Hammer goes into the box.
“Every beginner’s tacklebox needs a bladed jig,” he said. And with that, a Z-Man Evergreen ChatterBait Jack Hammer goes into the box.
Atkins uses a Berkley PowerBait Chigger Bug for added strike appeal. “It resembles a crawfish, takes out some of the kick and tones down the wider wobble,” he said.
Atkins uses a Berkley PowerBait Chigger Bug for added strike appeal. “It resembles a crawfish, takes out some of the kick and tones down the wider wobble,” he said.
Another soft plastic of choice is a Berkley PowerBait Bunker Hawg. “it’s a classic beaver-style bait that is a great alternative to the worm or shaky head rig.”
Another soft plastic of choice is a Berkley PowerBait Bunker Hawg. “it’s a classic beaver-style bait that is a great alternative to the worm or shaky head rig.”
Specially cut tails generate a subtle kicking action on the fall, and a tapered body shape allows the bait to slip in and out of cover without getting tangled. A trough-style belly provides less resistance when setting the hook for better penetration. Black Blue Fleck is his color of choice.
Specially cut tails generate a subtle kicking action on the fall, and a tapered body shape allows the bait to slip in and out of cover without getting tangled. A trough-style belly provides less resistance when setting the hook for better penetration. Black Blue Fleck is his color of choice.
Next is a soft plastic frog. “It’s another alternative to the topwater,” he said.
Next is a soft plastic frog. “It’s another alternative to the topwater,” he said.
“The frog is best suited for heavy cover, and it’s really fun to get a beginner hooked on the sport,” he added.
“The frog is best suited for heavy cover, and it’s really fun to get a beginner hooked on the sport,” he added.
The final bait going into the box is a jig. “I like to have a jig in my tacklebox for any heavy cover I encounter,” said. “What’s more, it’s a proven catcher for big bass.”
The final bait going into the box is a jig. “I like to have a jig in my tacklebox for any heavy cover I encounter,” said. “What’s more, it’s a proven catcher for big bass.”
Atkins chooses a 5/8-ounce green/pumpkin model, rigged with a matching Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Power Chunk.
Atkins chooses a 5/8-ounce green/pumpkin model, rigged with a matching Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Power Chunk.
“I chose baits that cover all the bases and that are user friendly,” said Atkins. “Hopefully, this lineup will lure more beginners into the sport.”
“I chose baits that cover all the bases and that are user friendly,” said Atkins. “Hopefully, this lineup will lure more beginners into the sport.”
Atkins also uses the baits in the beginner’s tacklebox throughout the season. “You can get proficient in using them and get even better as you gain more skills.”
Atkins also uses the baits in the beginner’s tacklebox throughout the season. “You can get proficient in using them and get even better as you gain more skills.”
]]> 357325 Beginner’s Tacklebox: Brandon Lester https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-brandon-lester/ Tue, 01 Dec 2020 22:58:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=320886 Bassmaster Elite Series pro Brandon Lester is about to fill this Mustad utility box with his favorite lures for a beginner’s tacklebox. “It’s simple and the choices cover the entire water column, there is a year-round selection, and the baits are proven to catch fish.” The lures come from Lester’s tournament tackleboxes that are rigged and at the ready aboard his boat.
Bassmaster Elite Series pro Brandon Lester is about to fill this Mustad utility box with his favorite lures for a beginner’s tacklebox. “It’s simple and the choices cover the entire water column, there is a year-round selection, and the baits are proven to catch fish.” The lures come from Lester’s tournament tackleboxes that are rigged and at the ready aboard his boat.
The first lure that Lester chooses is a shaky head. “This is the most versatile bait in the box. You can fish it around brush, docks, and just cast it out and let it go to the bottom.” Lester said that maintaining bottom contact is key. “Fish it slowly on the bottom for the best action.”
The first lure that Lester chooses is a shaky head. “This is the most versatile bait in the box. You can fish it around brush, docks, and just cast it out and let it go to the bottom.” Lester said that maintaining bottom contact is key. “Fish it slowly on the bottom for the best action.”
His choice is a 3/16-ounce shaky head featuring a 4/0 Mustad Hook. A 6-inch X Zone Lures Deception Worm, green pumpkin/blue flake, completes the rig.
His choice is a 3/16-ounce shaky head featuring a 4/0 Mustad Hook. A 6-inch X Zone Lures Deception Worm, green pumpkin/blue flake, completes the rig.
Next up in the lineup is a jig. “You can’t have a beginner’s box without a jig. You can flip and pitch it in heavy cover, and swim it in open water at any depth.”
Next up in the lineup is a jig. “You can’t have a beginner’s box without a jig. You can flip and pitch it in heavy cover, and swim it in open water at any depth.”
Lester’s choice is a 1/2-ounce Spot Sticker Baits Hand-Tied Living Rubber Jig, featuring a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Hook. For a trailer he adds a 4-inch X Zone Lures Muscle Back Craw, green pumpkin.
Lester’s choice is a 1/2-ounce Spot Sticker Baits Hand-Tied Living Rubber Jig, featuring a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Hook. For a trailer he adds a 4-inch X Zone Lures Muscle Back Craw, green pumpkin.
“A square bill crankbait is ideal for covering water in the 4- to 5-foot range.” Lester brings it out of a crankbait box stored in the center storage of his Phoenix, and he adds it to the beginner’s box.
“A square bill crankbait is ideal for covering water in the 4- to 5-foot range.” Lester brings it out of a crankbait box stored in the center storage of his Phoenix, and he adds it to the beginner’s box.
Lester’s choice is a 1.5 model, and he switches out the hooks with No. 4 Mustad Treble Hooks. The gizzard shad pattern is an all-around pattern. “It’s good in clear or dirty water and imitates the pattern of the baitfish.”
Lester’s choice is a 1.5 model, and he switches out the hooks with No. 4 Mustad Treble Hooks. The gizzard shad pattern is an all-around pattern. “It’s good in clear or dirty water and imitates the pattern of the baitfish.”
“Every rigged and ready tacklebox needs a topwater.” This walking bait makes the cut for making long casts to reach spooky bass. The lure is a proven fish catcher in low light, early in the morning or evening, and in shady areas.
“Every rigged and ready tacklebox needs a topwater.” This walking bait makes the cut for making long casts to reach spooky bass. The lure is a proven fish catcher in low light, early in the morning or evening, and in shady areas.
Going into the beginner’s box is a Heddon Super Spook Jr. This bone pattern model features No. 4 Mustad Round Bend Trebles and a feathered treble hook at the rear. “It’s a confidence thing for me.” Lester believes a feathered treble adds strike appeal for short-striking bass.
Going into the beginner’s box is a Heddon Super Spook Jr. This bone pattern model features No. 4 Mustad Round Bend Trebles and a feathered treble hook at the rear. “It’s a confidence thing for me.” Lester believes a feathered treble adds strike appeal for short-striking bass.
“A bladed jig is great for covering water, from very shallow to about the 10-foot depth range.” It’s easy to use, too. “Cast it out and retrieve slowly back to imitate a shad.”
“A bladed jig is great for covering water, from very shallow to about the 10-foot depth range.” It’s easy to use, too. “Cast it out and retrieve slowly back to imitate a shad.”
Going into the box is a 3/8-ounce bladed jig with a 3.5-inch X Zone Lures Mini Swammer. “The rig is all white to match it up to a shad.”
Going into the box is a 3/8-ounce bladed jig with a 3.5-inch X Zone Lures Mini Swammer. “The rig is all white to match it up to a shad.”
“A Ned rig is a good, all-around lure. The fish don’t see the Ned rig as much, and that makes it a good choice for pressured waters.”
“A Ned rig is a good, all-around lure. The fish don’t see the Ned rig as much, and that makes it a good choice for pressured waters.”
Lester’s choice is a 3/16-ounce Mustad Grip Pin Ned Head with No. 1 hook. To that he adds a 3-inch X Zone Lures Ned Zone Worm, green pumpkin/purple flake. “It’s a good size for creek- and river-channel ledges.”
Lester’s choice is a 3/16-ounce Mustad Grip Pin Ned Head with No. 1 hook. To that he adds a 3-inch X Zone Lures Ned Zone Worm, green pumpkin/purple flake. “It’s a good size for creek- and river-channel ledges.”
“Got to have a wacky-rigged worm, because of its erratic action and versatility.”
“Got to have a wacky-rigged worm, because of its erratic action and versatility.”
Into the box goes a weightless wacky rig. He makes it with a No. 2 Titan X Wacky/Neko Hook, a Mustad Wacky O Ring and a 5-inch X Zone Lures True Center Stick, green pumpkin/purple flake. “Bluegill are common in shallow water, and that color imitates them really well.”
Into the box goes a weightless wacky rig. He makes it with a No. 2 Titan X Wacky/Neko Hook, a Mustad Wacky O Ring and a 5-inch X Zone Lures True Center Stick, green pumpkin/purple flake. “Bluegill are common in shallow water, and that color imitates them really well.”
“A spinnerbait is a must for a beginner box, because it’s so versatile.” And weedless. Heavy cover like laydowns and vegetation can’t stop a spinnerbait. The blade flash resembles a fleeing baitfish, and spinnerbaits are productive in shallow and midrange depths.
“A spinnerbait is a must for a beginner box, because it’s so versatile.” And weedless. Heavy cover like laydowns and vegetation can’t stop a spinnerbait. The blade flash resembles a fleeing baitfish, and spinnerbaits are productive in shallow and midrange depths.
Lester chooses a 1/2-ounce War Eagle Spinnerbait with double willowleaf blades. For a trailer he uses a 4-inch X Zone Lures Grub. “Double willowleaf blades are all around the most versatile of the blade choices.”
Lester chooses a 1/2-ounce War Eagle Spinnerbait with double willowleaf blades. For a trailer he uses a 4-inch X Zone Lures Grub. “Double willowleaf blades are all around the most versatile of the blade choices.”
“Lipless crankbaits are easy for a beginner, because they can be fished at varying retrieves, and just about anywhere except for heavy cover.”
“Lipless crankbaits are easy for a beginner, because they can be fished at varying retrieves, and just about anywhere except for heavy cover.”
Into the box goes a 1/4-ounce Strike King Red Eye Shad, which he changes the hooks to No. 3 Mustad Round Bend Trebles. “With this size you can fish it slowly, so you don’t have to retrieve it as fast to keep it off the bottom.”
Into the box goes a 1/4-ounce Strike King Red Eye Shad, which he changes the hooks to No. 3 Mustad Round Bend Trebles. “With this size you can fish it slowly, so you don’t have to retrieve it as fast to keep it off the bottom.”
“If you are looking for an alternative to a shaky head this is it.” Lester calls it a wacky Ned Rig. “The fish don’t see it much, and that’s why it goes into the box.”
“If you are looking for an alternative to a shaky head this is it.” Lester calls it a wacky Ned Rig. “The fish don’t see it much, and that’s why it goes into the box.”
The crazy concoction is made with a 6-inch X Zone Lures Muscle Back Fat Finesse Worm, with 1/16-ounce Mustad Nail Weight impaled at one end. He fishes the worm on a No. 2 Mustad Titan X Wacky/Neko Hook.
The crazy concoction is made with a 6-inch X Zone Lures Muscle Back Fat Finesse Worm, with 1/16-ounce Mustad Nail Weight impaled at one end. He fishes the worm on a No. 2 Mustad Titan X Wacky/Neko Hook.
“The swimbait is a really versatile minnow imitator that can be worked a number of ways, depending on the mood of the fish.” Those ways include dragging it on the bottom, and swimming it through various depths of the water column, from shallow to deep.
“The swimbait is a really versatile minnow imitator that can be worked a number of ways, depending on the mood of the fish.” Those ways include dragging it on the bottom, and swimming it through various depths of the water column, from shallow to deep.
Lester adds a 3.5-inch X Zone Lures Mini Swammer, rigged on 1/4-ounce jighead with Mustad 1/0 hook. “It has a lazy action and looks like an unsuspecting minnow that makes it an easy ambush target for a bass.”
Lester adds a 3.5-inch X Zone Lures Mini Swammer, rigged on 1/4-ounce jighead with Mustad 1/0 hook. “It has a lazy action and looks like an unsuspecting minnow that makes it an easy ambush target for a bass.”
Last in the lineup is a deep diving crankbait. “This depth range of crankbait is really productive in the prespawn and postspawn, when the bass are actively feeding.” Fish it on points, gravel banks and for schooling or individual fish.
Last in the lineup is a deep diving crankbait. “This depth range of crankbait is really productive in the prespawn and postspawn, when the bass are actively feeding.” Fish it on points, gravel banks and for schooling or individual fish.
Lester’s choice is a Rapala DT10 that is capable of running up to 10 feet deep.
Lester’s choice is a Rapala DT10 that is capable of running up to 10 feet deep.
And there you have it. A beginner’s tacklebox filled with tournament-proven fish catchers.
And there you have it. A beginner’s tacklebox filled with tournament-proven fish catchers.
“I might just actually keep the box as is and store it in my boat. This could be a great go-to lineup of baits for me to use anytime, anywhere, when nothing else is working.”
“I might just actually keep the box as is and store it in my boat. This could be a great go-to lineup of baits for me to use anytime, anywhere, when nothing else is working.”
]]> 320886 Beginner’s Tacklebox: Gerald Swindle https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-gerald-swindle/ Thu, 13 Aug 2020 21:00:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=319638 Bassmaster Elite Series pro Gerald Swindle fills up one of his Lure Lock tackleboxes with the baits he'd suggest for a young or new bass angler.
Bassmaster Elite Series pro Gerald Swindle fills up one of his Lure Lock tackleboxes with the baits he’d suggest for a young or new bass angler.
He loves the Lure Lock boxes because they can be set up without tools.
He loves the Lure Lock boxes because they can be set up without tools.
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And a sticker is important too.
And a sticker is important too.
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To start he heads straight for the Rapala crankbaits.
To start he heads straight for the Rapala crankbaits.
The Rapala DT-6 is a go-to for the Alabama pro.
The Rapala DT-6 is a go-to for the Alabama pro.
In the Lure Lock it goes.
In the Lure Lock it goes.
Then he reaches for a Rapala BX Brat.
Then he reaches for a Rapala BX Brat.
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…
It goes in next to the DT-6
It goes in next to the DT-6
Next is a Rapala Shadow Rap Shad jerkbait.
Next is a Rapala Shadow Rap Shad jerkbait.
Especially in the spring, Swindle said, a jerkbait is a presentation a bass angler needs to master.
Especially in the spring, Swindle said, a jerkbait is a presentation a bass angler needs to master.
Into the box it goes.
Into the box it goes.
Next ...
Next …
... a squarebill like the DT-Fat is also a must.
… a squarebill like the DT-Fat is also a must.
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On to a terminal collection beginning with VMC bullet weights for a worm or creature Texas rig.
On to a terminal collection beginning with VMC bullet weights for a worm or creature Texas rig.
In the box they go.
In the box they go.
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What's next?
What’s next?
VMC Neko hooks. The Neko rig may seem advanced, but it's easy to rig and easy to use — and it catches fish. Swindle said these hooks work very well for a weedless wacky rig too.
VMC Neko hooks. The Neko rig may seem advanced, but it’s easy to rig and easy to use — and it catches fish. Swindle said these hooks work very well for a weedless wacky rig too.
They're in the box.
They’re in the box.
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VMC worm hooks for Texas or Carolina rigs and big creature baits for mat punching. They are a universal hook for Swindle, and he keeps plenty handy at all times.
VMC worm hooks for Texas or Carolina rigs and big creature baits for mat punching. They are a universal hook for Swindle, and he keeps plenty handy at all times.
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A swimbait is a great presentation to start out with because you can rig it weedless and slow-roll it along the bottom. Simple, easy to learn and the fish like it.
A swimbait is a great presentation to start out with because you can rig it weedless and slow-roll it along the bottom. Simple, easy to learn and the fish like it.
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Back to the rack.
Back to the rack.
He said every beginner needs to learn the shaky head. It's easy, relatively weedless and fish north to south, east to west will eat it.
He said every beginner needs to learn the shaky head. It’s easy, relatively weedless and fish north to south, east to west will eat it.
Swindle prefers a Buckeye Spot Remover.
Swindle prefers a Buckeye Spot Remover.
Into the box they go.
Into the box they go.
And of course he picks a jig.
And of course he picks a jig.
He loves his signature Buckeye Ballin' Out jigs.
He loves his signature Buckeye Ballin’ Out jigs.
Natural colors are always good. Into the box it goes.
Natural colors are always good. Into the box it goes.
A Z-Man Jackhammer is a great springtime presentation, or whenever grass is in the mix.
A Z-Man Jackhammer is a great springtime presentation, or whenever grass is in the mix.
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Moving on to his out-of-the-boat board. When he is cleaning out his rig between events, the baits that end up in the bottom of the boat get temporarily placed on this board until he needs them again. <p>Swindle sees something that needs to be included in a Beginner's Tacklebox.
Moving on to his out-of-the-boat board. When he is cleaning out his rig between events, the baits that end up in the bottom of the boat get temporarily placed on this board until he needs them again. Swindle sees something that needs to be included in a Beginner’s Tacklebox.
A Storm Arashi Cover Pop is not only a very productive bait, it's fun.
A Storm Arashi Cover Pop is not only a very productive bait, it’s fun.
Into the Lure Lock it goes.
Into the Lure Lock it goes.
You need to learn a spinnerbait, Swindle believes.
You need to learn a spinnerbait, Swindle believes.
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In the box it goes.
In the box it goes.
Plastics are important. He digs around a tub with assorted Zoom baits for the hooks and jigheads he included earlier.
Plastics are important. He digs around a tub with assorted Zoom baits for the hooks and jigheads he included earlier.
A Zoom Super $alt Plu$ Beatdown is a great Ned rig, Neko rig selection or as a Texas rig.
A Zoom Super $alt Plu$ Beatdown is a great Ned rig, Neko rig selection or as a Texas rig.
Next a Zoom Fluke Stick Jr.
Next a Zoom Fluke Stick Jr.
They get placed in the box.
They get placed in the box.
He heads to the back of his Toyota Tundra for another selection.
He heads to the back of his Toyota Tundra for another selection.
It's in here somewhere, he said.
It’s in here somewhere, he said.
Gotta be this one ...
Gotta be this one …
...
…
Ah ha!
Ah ha!
The Zoom Zlink-y stickbait.
The Zoom Zlink-y stickbait.
...
…
And of course, a jig trailer creature is next ...
And of course, a jig trailer creature is next …
... a Zoom Z-Craw Jr.
… a Zoom Z-Craw Jr.
The box is looking loaded up.
The box is looking loaded up.
That's it! Thanks, Gerald. You can take that box to the bank for any new or young bass angler.
That’s it! Thanks, Gerald. You can take that box to the bank for any new or young bass angler.
]]> 319638 Beginner’s Tacklebox: Robbie Latuso https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-robbie-latuso-2/ Thu, 07 May 2020 22:01:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=319731 Bassmaster Elite Series pro Robbie Latuso grew up snatching bass from the cypress-filled swamps of South Louisiana. That experience influences his preference for flipping, but he knows how to put together a box of baits that can help a beginner catch fish anywhere in the country. Here are his choices for a novice angler.
Bassmaster Elite Series pro Robbie Latuso grew up snatching bass from the cypress-filled swamps of South Louisiana. That experience influences his preference for flipping, but he knows how to put together a box of baits that can help a beginner catch fish anywhere in the country. Here are his choices for a novice angler.
His first choice is a Delta Lures 1/2-ounce buzz bait. “It’s really fun to catch them on topwaters,” he said. “It’s fun to see the strike.”
His first choice is a Delta Lures 1/2-ounce buzz bait. “It’s really fun to catch them on topwaters,” he said. “It’s fun to see the strike.”
The buzz bait goes in the first compartment of the Beginner’s Tacklebox.
The buzz bait goes in the first compartment of the Beginner’s Tacklebox.
Latuso reached into one of his Bass Cat’s compartments for his box of frogs.
Latuso reached into one of his Bass Cat’s compartments for his box of frogs.
The next bait up is Fitzgerald Fishing’s Pro-Z Hollow Body Frog. “There’s nothing more fun than catching them on a frog,” he said. “You’ve got to have you a black one and a white one. If you lose them, get you another black one and white one.”
The next bait up is Fitzgerald Fishing’s Pro-Z Hollow Body Frog. “There’s nothing more fun than catching them on a frog,” he said. “You’ve got to have you a black one and a white one. If you lose them, get you another black one and white one.”
The frogs fill the second compartment of the box.
The frogs fill the second compartment of the box.
Latuso’s third choice — gold/black back Smithwick Rattlin’ Rogue — reflects his Louisiana roots. The lure is in every South Louisianian’s box, and it is deadly when worked around cypress trees in the spring. “It’s another fun way to catch fish,” he explained. You get to see the fish bite.</p> <p>“And that gold one is pretty much the only color you need down here.”
Latuso’s third choice — gold/black back Smithwick Rattlin’ Rogue — reflects his Louisiana roots. The lure is in every South Louisianian’s box, and it is deadly when worked around cypress trees in the spring. “It’s another fun way to catch fish,” he explained. You get to see the fish bite. “And that gold one is pretty much the only color you need down here.”
The Rattlin’ Rogue occupies the third compartment of his Beginner’s Tacklebox.
The Rattlin’ Rogue occupies the third compartment of his Beginner’s Tacklebox.
Next up is a 3/8-ounce Delta Lures Thunder Jig with a Missile Baits Craw trailer. “It’s a good all-around choice,” he said. “It’s an easy bait to throw, it’s easy to feel the bait vibrate and it’s easy to feel the bite — they choke it.”
Next up is a 3/8-ounce Delta Lures Thunder Jig with a Missile Baits Craw trailer. “It’s a good all-around choice,” he said. “It’s an easy bait to throw, it’s easy to feel the bait vibrate and it’s easy to feel the bite — they choke it.”
The Thunder Jig is placed in the first compartment of the second row of the beginner’s box.
The Thunder Jig is placed in the first compartment of the second row of the beginner’s box.
Latuso reaches into the hard-bait compartment of his boat and pulls out a box of spinnerbaits.
Latuso reaches into the hard-bait compartment of his boat and pulls out a box of spinnerbaits.
A 3/8-ounce Delta Lures spinnerbait with double Colorado blades comes out as the fifth bait for the box. “It’s the No. 1 fish-catching bait down here,” he said. “You’ve just got to have one. It’s something you can cover a lot of water with, and it’s easy to fish. It doesn’t hang up a whole lot. You cast and reel it back.”
A 3/8-ounce Delta Lures spinnerbait with double Colorado blades comes out as the fifth bait for the box. “It’s the No. 1 fish-catching bait down here,” he said. “You’ve just got to have one. It’s something you can cover a lot of water with, and it’s easy to fish. It doesn’t hang up a whole lot. You cast and reel it back.”
Lautso places the spinnerbait in the next compartment of the tackleblox.
Lautso places the spinnerbait in the next compartment of the tackleblox.
The next lure is another easy-to-fish choice that can be deadly to bass. The 3/8-ounce Delta Lures swim jig is paired with a Missile Baits Shockwave. “It’s another bait you can throw and wind back,” Latuso said. “It’s like a subtle spinnerbait.”
The next lure is another easy-to-fish choice that can be deadly to bass. The 3/8-ounce Delta Lures swim jig is paired with a Missile Baits Shockwave. “It’s another bait you can throw and wind back,” Latuso said. “It’s like a subtle spinnerbait.”
The swim jig goes into the box.
The swim jig goes into the box.
“You’ve got to have a black-and-chartreuse crankbait,” he said. His choice is a Cliff Pace Ricochet Jr. square bill, and it’s perfect for novice anglers because it flat catches bass. “A square bill deflects off wood really well, and we have lots of wood down here,” he explained. “It helps you keep from getting hung up all the time, and it triggers the bite when that bait hits wood and deflects off.”
“You’ve got to have a black-and-chartreuse crankbait,” he said. His choice is a Cliff Pace Ricochet Jr. square bill, and it’s perfect for novice anglers because it flat catches bass. “A square bill deflects off wood really well, and we have lots of wood down here,” he explained. “It helps you keep from getting hung up all the time, and it triggers the bite when that bait hits wood and deflects off.”
The square bill goes into the box just beneath the vibrating jig.
The square bill goes into the box just beneath the vibrating jig.
Next is a 1/2-ounce Missile Baits Mini Flip Jig with a Missile Baits Baby D-Bomb. “A jig’s a good bait to catch a big fish on,” he said. “Some times of the year, it’s about the only bait you can get a fish on. This Mini Flip has a smaller hook, and it’s actually easy to get hooked up with the fish. You’ve just got to pull into them and you’ve got them. For a beginner, that’s key. You really don’t have to set the hook. </p> <p>“It’s a good way for a beginner to get a little confidence in a jig. It’s a hard bait to learn to fish.”</p> <p>And the black-and-blue combination is “pretty much the only color you need,” he said. “It works best in stained water, but it has worked anywhere in the country I’ve been to.”
Next is a 1/2-ounce Missile Baits Mini Flip Jig with a Missile Baits Baby D-Bomb. “A jig’s a good bait to catch a big fish on,” he said. “Some times of the year, it’s about the only bait you can get a fish on. This Mini Flip has a smaller hook, and it’s actually easy to get hooked up with the fish. You’ve just got to pull into them and you’ve got them. For a beginner, that’s key. You really don’t have to set the hook. “It’s a good way for a beginner to get a little confidence in a jig. It’s a hard bait to learn to fish.” And the black-and-blue combination is “pretty much the only color you need,” he said. “It works best in stained water, but it has worked anywhere in the country I’ve been to.”
Latuso puts the jig into the next compartment of the tacklebox.
Latuso puts the jig into the next compartment of the tacklebox.
The angler has to dig out one of his plastics bags to continue filling the box.
The angler has to dig out one of his plastics bags to continue filling the box.
His first soft-plastic choice is a Missile D-Bomb, which he’ll pair with a 3/0 wide-gap hook. “Just flip it out there and catch fish,” he said. “It’s just a great flipping bait. I’ll Texas-rig it with a 1/4-ounce weight, and just flip it on cover.”</p> <p>The choice of whether or not to peg the weight comes down to the cover Latuso is fishing.</p> <p>“If you’re flipping in grass or a lot of bushes, you want to peg it,” he explained. “If you’re just flipping around open wood or trees, don’t peg it. You’re going to get more bites and more hookups without pegged weights.”
His first soft-plastic choice is a Missile D-Bomb, which he’ll pair with a 3/0 wide-gap hook. “Just flip it out there and catch fish,” he said. “It’s just a great flipping bait. I’ll Texas-rig it with a 1/4-ounce weight, and just flip it on cover.” The choice of whether or not to peg the weight comes down to the cover Latuso is fishing. “If you’re flipping in grass or a lot of bushes, you want to peg it,” he explained. “If you’re just flipping around open wood or trees, don’t peg it. You’re going to get more bites and more hookups without pegged weights.”
The D-Bomb is tucked into the box.
The D-Bomb is tucked into the box.
Sticking with flipping options, he pulls out a Missile Baits Baby D-Stroyer, which is really effective around cypress trees when fished under a 1/4-ounce weight. “This works so good down here because, if you’ve noticed, we have a lot of salamanders on trees,” he said. “The D-Stroyer looks like a little salamander.</p> <p>“You flip it just like you flip the D-Bomb.”
Sticking with flipping options, he pulls out a Missile Baits Baby D-Stroyer, which is really effective around cypress trees when fished under a 1/4-ounce weight. “This works so good down here because, if you’ve noticed, we have a lot of salamanders on trees,” he said. “The D-Stroyer looks like a little salamander. “You flip it just like you flip the D-Bomb.”
Into the box goes the D-Stroyer.
Into the box goes the D-Stroyer.
A stick bait is a no-brainer for a beginner, and his choice is the Missile Baits 48 Worm. “You can fish this any time you fish a Senko,” Latuso said. “You can Texas rig it, you can wacky rig it, you can Neko rig it, you can put the hook in it without a weight and put a nail weight in the tail. It has a different fall than a Senko does; that’s why it catches so many fish.</p> <p>“It’s kind of 'finessy.' You just want to get bit as a beginner, and that’s a great bait to catch fish on. Drag it around real slow, and you’re probably going to catch a fish.”
A stick bait is a no-brainer for a beginner, and his choice is the Missile Baits 48 Worm. “You can fish this any time you fish a Senko,” Latuso said. “You can Texas rig it, you can wacky rig it, you can Neko rig it, you can put the hook in it without a weight and put a nail weight in the tail. It has a different fall than a Senko does; that’s why it catches so many fish. “It’s kind of ‘finessy.’ You just want to get bit as a beginner, and that’s a great bait to catch fish on. Drag it around real slow, and you’re probably going to catch a fish.”
He drops the 48 Worm into the box. <p>“It’s kind of finessy. You just want to get bit as a beginner, and that’s a great bait to catch fish on. Drag it around real slow, and you’re probably going to catch a fish.”
He drops the 48 Worm into the box. “It’s kind of finessy. You just want to get bit as a beginner, and that’s a great bait to catch fish on. Drag it around real slow, and you’re probably going to catch a fish.”
The last bait he chooses is a punching combination: a Delta Lures Punch Skirt over a Missile D-Bomb rigged on an 3/0 Owner Jungle Hook. “You can punch it with any sized weight you want,” he said. “I use the lightest weight I can get away with. If you’re punching something that’s not too thick — maybe some duckseed — you might can go with a 1/2-ounce; with lilies you might get away with a 1-ounce. Just go with the lightest weight you can get by with.”</p> <p>He pegs his weight to ensure the lure breaks through the salad. “I use two stoppers,” Latuso said. “One peg slips on you, but with two it ain’t going nowhere.”</p> <p>The punching skirt helps give some heft to the bait profile. “Sometimes they want a bulkier profile, especially earlier in the year around the spawn,” he said. “You get bigger bites. Sometimes they want something big to eat.”
The last bait he chooses is a punching combination: a Delta Lures Punch Skirt over a Missile D-Bomb rigged on an 3/0 Owner Jungle Hook. “You can punch it with any sized weight you want,” he said. “I use the lightest weight I can get away with. If you’re punching something that’s not too thick — maybe some duckseed — you might can go with a 1/2-ounce; with lilies you might get away with a 1-ounce. Just go with the lightest weight you can get by with.” He pegs his weight to ensure the lure breaks through the salad. “I use two stoppers,” Latuso said. “One peg slips on you, but with two it ain’t going nowhere.” The punching skirt helps give some heft to the bait profile. “Sometimes they want a bulkier profile, especially earlier in the year around the spawn,” he said. “You get bigger bites. Sometimes they want something big to eat.”
Latuso adds the setup in the final space of the tacklebox.
Latuso adds the setup in the final space of the tacklebox.
He said this box contains a well-rounded selection of lures that will allow a beginner to catch bass wherever he goes.
He said this box contains a well-rounded selection of lures that will allow a beginner to catch bass wherever he goes.
A closer look at the completed box shows Latuso’s choices covers all levels of the water column, from topwater to bottom baits.
A closer look at the completed box shows Latuso’s choices covers all levels of the water column, from topwater to bottom baits.
]]> 319731 Beginner’s Tacklebox with Keith Combs https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-with-keith-combs/ Sun, 12 Jan 2020 23:00:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=258070 Texan Keith Combs with the tacklebox he will fill with a basic arsenal of baits for beginning bass anglers.
Texan Keith Combs with the tacklebox he will fill with a basic arsenal of baits for beginning bass anglers.
Strike King’s Sexy Dawg walking stickbait is Combs’ first pick for the box. “You can cast this topwater bait a long ways, and it’s good in any season,” Combs said.
Strike King’s Sexy Dawg walking stickbait is Combs’ first pick for the box. “You can cast this topwater bait a long ways, and it’s good in any season,” Combs said.
The Sexy Dawg earns the first spot in Combs’ beginner’s tacklebox.
The Sexy Dawg earns the first spot in Combs’ beginner’s tacklebox.
Another topwater bait, Strike King’s 3/8-ounce Splash popper, is another essential player. “Sometimes the Sexy Dawg can be overpowering,” Combs said. “The Splash is especially good when it’s calm.”
Another topwater bait, Strike King’s 3/8-ounce Splash popper, is another essential player. “Sometimes the Sexy Dawg can be overpowering,” Combs said. “The Splash is especially good when it’s calm.”
The Splash joins the Sexy Dawg in the box.
The Splash joins the Sexy Dawg in the box.
A jerkbait is another essential lure Combs believes. The Strike King KVD Deep is his favorite. “It catches all species of black bass and works from prespawn to postspawn and in the fall,” Combs said.
A jerkbait is another essential lure Combs believes. The Strike King KVD Deep is his favorite. “It catches all species of black bass and works from prespawn to postspawn and in the fall,” Combs said.
The KVD Deep Jerkbait in the box.
The KVD Deep Jerkbait in the box.
“Don’t leave home without a 1/2-ounce Strike King Red Eyed Shad,” Combs said.
“Don’t leave home without a 1/2-ounce Strike King Red Eyed Shad,” Combs said.
Into the box goes the Red Eyed Shad.
Into the box goes the Red Eyed Shad.
Combs fetches a 3/8-ounce Strike King Heavy Cover Swim Jig from his swim jig box.
Combs fetches a 3/8-ounce Strike King Heavy Cover Swim Jig from his swim jig box.
From another tacklebox he plucks a 5-inch Strike King Swimming Caffeine Shad, which he bites down to 4 inches and threads onto the hook of the jig.
From another tacklebox he plucks a 5-inch Strike King Swimming Caffeine Shad, which he bites down to 4 inches and threads onto the hook of the jig.
Combs ties on this deadly combo anytime bass are in shallow water. “It’s the best bait going to cover water,” he said.
Combs ties on this deadly combo anytime bass are in shallow water. “It’s the best bait going to cover water,” he said.
The swim jig, another essential bait, joins the others in the box.
The swim jig, another essential bait, joins the others in the box.
From his jig box Combs selects a 3/4-ounce Strike King Hack Attack Jig.
From his jig box Combs selects a 3/4-ounce Strike King Hack Attack Jig.
From another tacklebox Combs selects a Strike Kink Rage Twin Tail Menace for a trailer.
From another tacklebox Combs selects a Strike Kink Rage Twin Tail Menace for a trailer.
Combs threads the Menace onto the jig’s hook.
Combs threads the Menace onto the jig’s hook.
“I do a lot of different things with this jig,” Combs said. “I pitch it under docks, flip it to shoreline grass and fish it deep over the bottom.”
“I do a lot of different things with this jig,” Combs said. “I pitch it under docks, flip it to shoreline grass and fish it deep over the bottom.”
Into the beginner’s tacklebox goes the jig.
Into the beginner’s tacklebox goes the jig.
Combs retrieves a 5/0 Owner Weighted Twistlock CPS Hook from his hook box. It features a spring screw keeper and a 1/8-ounce weight on its shank.
Combs retrieves a 5/0 Owner Weighted Twistlock CPS Hook from his hook box. It features a spring screw keeper and a 1/8-ounce weight on its shank.
Combs screws the hook’s Twistlock into the head of a 5-inch Strike King Swim N Shiner.
Combs screws the hook’s Twistlock into the head of a 5-inch Strike King Swim N Shiner.
Combs scores with this subtle combo when bass in clear water refuse power-fishing techniques. “It catches spooky bass and works great during the shad spawn,” Combs said.
Combs scores with this subtle combo when bass in clear water refuse power-fishing techniques. “It catches spooky bass and works great during the shad spawn,” Combs said.
The Swim N Shiner takes its place in the tacklebox.
The Swim N Shiner takes its place in the tacklebox.
Combs select a Strike King Rage Bug from a box dedicated exclusively to this lure. He opts for the largest version of this bait, the 4 1/2-inch Magnum Rage Bug.
Combs select a Strike King Rage Bug from a box dedicated exclusively to this lure. He opts for the largest version of this bait, the 4 1/2-inch Magnum Rage Bug.
“I get more bites on the Magnum Rage Bug than on the regular one,” Combs said. He often Texas rigs this bait with a 3/8-ounce tungsten bullet weight and a 4/0 Owner Offset Shank Wide Gap Worm Hook.
“I get more bites on the Magnum Rage Bug than on the regular one,” Combs said. He often Texas rigs this bait with a 3/8-ounce tungsten bullet weight and a 4/0 Owner Offset Shank Wide Gap Worm Hook.
Into the box goes the Magnum Rage Bug.
Into the box goes the Magnum Rage Bug.
Combs pulls a 4/0 Owner Offset Shank Wide Gap Worm Hook from his worm box.
Combs pulls a 4/0 Owner Offset Shank Wide Gap Worm Hook from his worm box.
Combs threads the hook into the head of a pearl 5-inch Strike King Caffeine Shad.
Combs threads the hook into the head of a pearl 5-inch Strike King Caffeine Shad.
Combs rigs the Caffeine Shad Tex-posed. “I have this bait tied on all year, with the exception of winter,” Combs said. “It catches them from prespawn through postspawn, in the summer for schooling bass and in the fall.”
Combs rigs the Caffeine Shad Tex-posed. “I have this bait tied on all year, with the exception of winter,” Combs said. “It catches them from prespawn through postspawn, in the summer for schooling bass and in the fall.”
The Caffeine Shad in the box.
The Caffeine Shad in the box.
Strike King’s 6-inch Rage Cut R Worm is Combs’ next pick for the beginner’s tacklebox.
Strike King’s 6-inch Rage Cut R Worm is Combs’ next pick for the beginner’s tacklebox.
Combs rigs the Cut R Worm with a 5/0 Owner Weighted Twistlock CPS Hook. He fishes this bait in submerged grass and for spawning bass.
Combs rigs the Cut R Worm with a 5/0 Owner Weighted Twistlock CPS Hook. He fishes this bait in submerged grass and for spawning bass.
The Cut R Worm finds a place in Combs’ nearly full tacklebox.
The Cut R Worm finds a place in Combs’ nearly full tacklebox.
Combs casts Strike King’s Series 3 crankbait in the Chili Craw color throughout the seasons. This 1/4-ounce crankbait dives to 8 feet. “I throw it a lot during prespawn, especially in highland lakes,” Combs said. “It has a tight, subtle wobble.”
Combs casts Strike King’s Series 3 crankbait in the Chili Craw color throughout the seasons. This 1/4-ounce crankbait dives to 8 feet. “I throw it a lot during prespawn, especially in highland lakes,” Combs said. “It has a tight, subtle wobble.”
The Series 3 claims the final open slot in Combs’ tacklebox.
The Series 3 claims the final open slot in Combs’ tacklebox.
“You’ve got to have the Strike King 1.5 Square Bill in your tacklebox for shallow fish,” Combs said. “It’s the most versatile crankbait you can own.”
“You’ve got to have the Strike King 1.5 Square Bill in your tacklebox for shallow fish,” Combs said. “It’s the most versatile crankbait you can own.”
The Strike King 1.5 shares a slot with Strike King’s Series 3 crankbait in Combs’ completed beginner’s tacklebox.
The Strike King 1.5 shares a slot with Strike King’s Series 3 crankbait in Combs’ completed beginner’s tacklebox.
]]> 258070 Beginner’s Tacklebox: David Fritts https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-david-fritts/ Tue, 14 May 2019 20:45:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=262238 Bassmaster Elite Series pro David Fritts holds the empty flat box he will fill with an assortment of killer lures for beginning bass anglers. His goal is to fill it with lures that will catch bass throughout the seasons.
Bassmaster Elite Series pro David Fritts holds the empty flat box he will fill with an assortment of killer lures for beginning bass anglers. His goal is to fill it with lures that will catch bass throughout the seasons.
Fritts reaches into the middle locker of his bass boat and fetches a box filled with crankbaits. This is no surprise, as Fritts is a certified crankbait guru.
Fritts reaches into the middle locker of his bass boat and fetches a box filled with crankbaits. This is no surprise, as Fritts is a certified crankbait guru.
The first lure Fritts plucks from the box is a No. 5 Berkley Bad Shad, which dives 5-7 feet deep. “This is a great bait for early spring,” Fritts said. “It’s an elongated bait that you can fish in places where you’d fish a jerkbait. I pull it with my rod and wind in the slack while it sits there. Bass will come a long way to get it.”
The first lure Fritts plucks from the box is a No. 5 Berkley Bad Shad, which dives 5-7 feet deep. “This is a great bait for early spring,” Fritts said. “It’s an elongated bait that you can fish in places where you’d fish a jerkbait. I pull it with my rod and wind in the slack while it sits there. Bass will come a long way to get it.”
Into the box goes the Bad Shad.
Into the box goes the Bad Shad.
The next bait Fritts fetches is the Berkley War Pig, a lipless rattler that comes in 1/4- and 1/2-ounce sizes. “The War Pig is another bait I like in early spring,” Fritts said. “I’ll cast it to any shallow cover. My favorite way to fish it is to bump it into stumps.”
The next bait Fritts fetches is the Berkley War Pig, a lipless rattler that comes in 1/4- and 1/2-ounce sizes. “The War Pig is another bait I like in early spring,” Fritts said. “I’ll cast it to any shallow cover. My favorite way to fish it is to bump it into stumps.”
The War Pig joins the Bad Shad in the box.
The War Pig joins the Bad Shad in the box.
The Berkley Juke Jerkbait is the next lure Fritts chooses for the box. “It’s a herring bait,” Fritts said. “This is a versatile bait. You can twitch it like a jerkbait or wind it slow and fish it like a wakebait.”
The Berkley Juke Jerkbait is the next lure Fritts chooses for the box. “It’s a herring bait,” Fritts said. “This is a versatile bait. You can twitch it like a jerkbait or wind it slow and fish it like a wakebait.”
The Berkley Juke earns a long slot in the tacklebox.
The Berkley Juke earns a long slot in the tacklebox.
A No. 7 Berkley Bad Shad in the black gold color is Fritts’ next choice for the box. He does especially well with this crankbait when bass gang up in staging areas prior to moving shallow to spawn. “It dives 6-8 feet and will catch them all through spring,” Fitts said.
A No. 7 Berkley Bad Shad in the black gold color is Fritts’ next choice for the box. He does especially well with this crankbait when bass gang up in staging areas prior to moving shallow to spawn. “It dives 6-8 feet and will catch them all through spring,” Fitts said.
The No. 7 Bad Shad joins the other lures in the box.
The No. 7 Bad Shad joins the other lures in the box.
Fritts digs out another tacklebox, which holds, surprise, more of his beloved crankbaits.
Fritts digs out another tacklebox, which holds, surprise, more of his beloved crankbaits.
This time the crankbait is a Berkley Dredger 10.5, which dives 10-12 feet deep. “I like to fish this bait immediately after the bass spawn before they go deep,” Fritts said.
This time the crankbait is a Berkley Dredger 10.5, which dives 10-12 feet deep. “I like to fish this bait immediately after the bass spawn before they go deep,” Fritts said.
Into the box goes the Dredger 10.5.
Into the box goes the Dredger 10.5.
Fritts selects another Dredger for the box, the deep diving 20.5 model. “This one is for summertime ledge and point fishing,” Fritts said.
Fritts selects another Dredger for the box, the deep diving 20.5 model. “This one is for summertime ledge and point fishing,” Fritts said.
Another long slot in the tacklebox is needed to make space for the long-billed Dredger 20.5.
Another long slot in the tacklebox is needed to make space for the long-billed Dredger 20.5.
Out of the rod locker comes Fritts’ topwater box.
Out of the rod locker comes Fritts’ topwater box.
When bass school offshore, Fritts picks them off with a noisy, surface-thrashing, long-casting Berkley Cane Walker. This pencil popper does especially well in autumn.
When bass school offshore, Fritts picks them off with a noisy, surface-thrashing, long-casting Berkley Cane Walker. This pencil popper does especially well in autumn.
Fritts pulls another tacklebox out of his boat locker that is stuffed with hard baits.
Fritts pulls another tacklebox out of his boat locker that is stuffed with hard baits.
From this box he pulls out a Berkley Pitbull square bill crankbait. It excels for cranking cover shallow cover.
From this box he pulls out a Berkley Pitbull square bill crankbait. It excels for cranking cover shallow cover.
The Pitbull earns a spot next to the Cane Walker in the tacklebox.
The Pitbull earns a spot next to the Cane Walker in the tacklebox.
For late fall and winter fishing, Fritts recommends a Berkley Digger crankbait, which comes in six sizes that cover depths from 3 to 15 feet. “The Diggers are good all year and especially in the fall,” Fritts said. “They have a wide action that pushes a lot of water. They’re fantastic on aggressive fish.”
For late fall and winter fishing, Fritts recommends a Berkley Digger crankbait, which comes in six sizes that cover depths from 3 to 15 feet. “The Diggers are good all year and especially in the fall,” Fritts said. “They have a wide action that pushes a lot of water. They’re fantastic on aggressive fish.”
The Digger joins the other lures in the box.
The Digger joins the other lures in the box.
A 1 1/2-ounce Hopkins Shorty jigging spoon is Fritts’ next choice for the box. “It crushes big fish in the winter and the summer,” Fritts said. “I fish it vertical and I’ll also throw it out and jig it back over the bottom 20 to 30 feet deep.”
A 1 1/2-ounce Hopkins Shorty jigging spoon is Fritts’ next choice for the box. “It crushes big fish in the winter and the summer,” Fritts said. “I fish it vertical and I’ll also throw it out and jig it back over the bottom 20 to 30 feet deep.”
The Hopkins Shorty claims a corner slot in the box.
The Hopkins Shorty claims a corner slot in the box.
Berkley’s Dredger 14.5 in the brown craw color comes next. He claimed that it runs at a good depth for fishing in the winter when bass move up on bluff walls to feed.
Berkley’s Dredger 14.5 in the brown craw color comes next. He claimed that it runs at a good depth for fishing in the winter when bass move up on bluff walls to feed.
This Dredger is a tight fit in one of the slots in the box.
This Dredger is a tight fit in one of the slots in the box.
Another bait Fritts recommends for winter fishing is the Digger 14.5. It dives to about the same depth as the Dredger 14.5 but has a wider wobble.
Another bait Fritts recommends for winter fishing is the Digger 14.5. It dives to about the same depth as the Dredger 14.5 but has a wider wobble.
The Digger 14.5 is added to the box.
The Digger 14.5 is added to the box.
Berkley’s Powerbait General stick worm is the only soft plastic bait that Fritts chooses for the beginner’s tacklebox. “You can catch fish with this bait anytime,” Fritts said. “I fish it weightless wacky style, as a Neko rig and lots of other ways.”
Berkley’s Powerbait General stick worm is the only soft plastic bait that Fritts chooses for the beginner’s tacklebox. “You can catch fish with this bait anytime,” Fritts said. “I fish it weightless wacky style, as a Neko rig and lots of other ways.”
The Berkley Powerbait General completes Fitts’ beginner’s tacklebox.
The Berkley Powerbait General completes Fitts’ beginner’s tacklebox.
]]> 262238 Beginner’s Tacklebox with David Mullins https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-with-david-mullins/ Thu, 07 Mar 2019 23:00:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=262270 Bassmaster Elite Series pro David Mullins with the empty Bass Mafia tacklebox he is about to fill with lures for beginning bass anglers.
Bassmaster Elite Series pro David Mullins with the empty Bass Mafia tacklebox he is about to fill with lures for beginning bass anglers.
Mullins sorts through the clear plastic zip-seal bags he keeps his soft plastic baits in for his first selection.
Mullins sorts through the clear plastic zip-seal bags he keeps his soft plastic baits in for his first selection.
He locates the bait he’s looking for and plucks one from its package.
He locates the bait he’s looking for and plucks one from its package.
Bait number one for the beginner’s box is Doomsday Tackle’s Roku, a 5.4-inch soft stickbait. “This bait is thinner than other sinking stickbaits but has more fine salt in it so it weighs the same,” Mullins said. “I fish it weightless or on a shaky head.”
Bait number one for the beginner’s box is Doomsday Tackle’s Roku, a 5.4-inch soft stickbait. “This bait is thinner than other sinking stickbaits but has more fine salt in it so it weighs the same,” Mullins said. “I fish it weightless or on a shaky head.”
The Roku proudly earns the first slot in the tacklebox.
The Roku proudly earns the first slot in the tacklebox.
Mullins fetches another large zip bag to find lure choice number two.
Mullins fetches another large zip bag to find lure choice number two.
He reaches into the bag for one of his heavy hitters.
He reaches into the bag for one of his heavy hitters.
That bait is the Fat Man Creature Bait from Doomsday Tackle. “This my flippin’ bait,” Mullins said. “I rig it with a 4/0 Owner Jungle Flippin’ Hook and a 1/8- to 1/2-ounce bullet weight. It’s a little bigger than a Beaver and has a thumping tail.”
That bait is the Fat Man Creature Bait from Doomsday Tackle. “This my flippin’ bait,” Mullins said. “I rig it with a 4/0 Owner Jungle Flippin’ Hook and a 1/8- to 1/2-ounce bullet weight. It’s a little bigger than a Beaver and has a thumping tail.”
The Fat Man nestles up to the Roku in the tacklebox.
The Fat Man nestles up to the Roku in the tacklebox.
A Z-Man Chatterbait is the next lure Mullins chooses for the tacklebox. “I throw this bait anytime there’s grass,” Mullins said. “It’s also good in dirty water. I fish it with a variety of trailers.”
A Z-Man Chatterbait is the next lure Mullins chooses for the tacklebox. “I throw this bait anytime there’s grass,” Mullins said. “It’s also good in dirty water. I fish it with a variety of trailers.”
Into the box goes the Chatterbait.
Into the box goes the Chatterbait.
“I fish this 6-inch Scottsboro Swimbait anytime I’m fishing in clear water that has a good shad population,” Mullins said. “I rig it on 1/2- to 1 1/4-ounce swimbait jig heads to cover endless depth ranges.”
“I fish this 6-inch Scottsboro Swimbait anytime I’m fishing in clear water that has a good shad population,” Mullins said. “I rig it on 1/2- to 1 1/4-ounce swimbait jig heads to cover endless depth ranges.”
The Scottsboro Swimbait is added to the tacklebox.
The Scottsboro Swimbait is added to the tacklebox.
Mullins threads a 3-inch Scottsboro Swimbait onto a ball head jig that features a screw lock. His jigs for this bait weigh from 1/8- to 3/8-ounce.
Mullins threads a 3-inch Scottsboro Swimbait onto a ball head jig that features a screw lock. His jigs for this bait weigh from 1/8- to 3/8-ounce.
“I use this bait to catch deep smallies in cold water and for schooling fish in the summer,” Mullins said. “It’s also good on an A-Rig.”
“I use this bait to catch deep smallies in cold water and for schooling fish in the summer,” Mullins said. “It’s also good on an A-Rig.”
The little Scottsboro swimbait looks like the offspring of the larger Scottsboro swimbait in the tacklebox.
The little Scottsboro swimbait looks like the offspring of the larger Scottsboro swimbait in the tacklebox.
This 5/8-ounce Strike King Sexy Dawg is Mullins’ go-to walking bait.
This 5/8-ounce Strike King Sexy Dawg is Mullins’ go-to walking bait.
The Sexy Dawg is well worth the room it takes up in the tacklebox.
The Sexy Dawg is well worth the room it takes up in the tacklebox.
Doomsday Tackle’s D-Hop Frog features a solid, soft foam body and two skirts. Mullins removed the front skirt prior to rigging the lure with a hook.
Doomsday Tackle’s D-Hop Frog features a solid, soft foam body and two skirts. Mullins removed the front skirt prior to rigging the lure with a hook.
“The D-Hope walks better without the front skirt,” Mullins said.
“The D-Hope walks better without the front skirt,” Mullins said.
The D-Hope finds a place in the tacklebox.
The D-Hope finds a place in the tacklebox.
Mullins fetches a flat box filled with crankbaits from his boat locker.
Mullins fetches a flat box filled with crankbaits from his boat locker.
He finds the crankbait he is looking for, Strike King’s 6XD.
He finds the crankbait he is looking for, Strike King’s 6XD.
“This is my favorite crankbait anytime I’m fishing 12 to 20 feet deep,” Mullins said. “I carry it with me wherever I go.”
“This is my favorite crankbait anytime I’m fishing 12 to 20 feet deep,” Mullins said. “I carry it with me wherever I go.”
The Strike King 6XD requires a large slot in the tacklebox.
The Strike King 6XD requires a large slot in the tacklebox.
Mullins always ties an Owner 1.5 size Hyper Snap to his line when fishing crankbaits. “I’m big on using a snap with crankbaits,” Mullins said. “I can change crankbaits or crankbait colors quickly without having to retie.”
Mullins always ties an Owner 1.5 size Hyper Snap to his line when fishing crankbaits. “I’m big on using a snap with crankbaits,” Mullins said. “I can change crankbaits or crankbait colors quickly without having to retie.”
A small pouch of Hyper Snaps takes up little room in the tacklebox.
A small pouch of Hyper Snaps takes up little room in the tacklebox.
Drop shotting Doomsday Tackle’s Laggin’ Dragon Soft Jerkbait produces for Mullins when the bite is tough.
Drop shotting Doomsday Tackle’s Laggin’ Dragon Soft Jerkbait produces for Mullins when the bite is tough.
Into the box goes the Doomsday Laggin’ Dragon.
Into the box goes the Doomsday Laggin’ Dragon.
Mullins always has a supply of 4/0 Owner Jungle Flippin’ Hooks in his boat and recommends them for the beginner’s tacklebox. “I use this hook 90 percent of the time when I’m flippin’, fishing a Carolina rig, Texas rigging a big worm and more. It’s strong and has a slick coating for easy penetration.”
Mullins always has a supply of 4/0 Owner Jungle Flippin’ Hooks in his boat and recommends them for the beginner’s tacklebox. “I use this hook 90 percent of the time when I’m flippin’, fishing a Carolina rig, Texas rigging a big worm and more. It’s strong and has a slick coating for easy penetration.”
This Bass Mafia hook container is made to fit into a Bass Mafia flat box.
This Bass Mafia hook container is made to fit into a Bass Mafia flat box.
The only difference between these two worms is that the worm on the right has the cut-tail pinched off. “Every bass fisherman has got to have a big worm,” Mullins said. “This 8 1/2-inch Roku K Cut Tail Worm covers a lot of bases. If you leave the tail on, you can swim the worm, which works especially well in Florida. For fishing ledges and other offshore structure, pinch the tail off.”
The only difference between these two worms is that the worm on the right has the cut-tail pinched off. “Every bass fisherman has got to have a big worm,” Mullins said. “This 8 1/2-inch Roku K Cut Tail Worm covers a lot of bases. If you leave the tail on, you can swim the worm, which works especially well in Florida. For fishing ledges and other offshore structure, pinch the tail off.”
The big Roku K worm, with and without the cut-tail, dwarfs the Laggin’ Drago in the tacklebox.
The big Roku K worm, with and without the cut-tail, dwarfs the Laggin’ Drago in the tacklebox.
“I always have a Benchmade folding knife with me,” Mullins said. “It’s a great braid cutter and you always run into situations where a knife is handy.”
“I always have a Benchmade folding knife with me,” Mullins said. “It’s a great braid cutter and you always run into situations where a knife is handy.”
The Benchmade knife completes Mullins’ beginner’s tacklebox.
The Benchmade knife completes Mullins’ beginner’s tacklebox.
]]> 262270 Beginner’s Tacklebox with Bill Lowen https://www.bassmaster.com/beginners-tacklebox/slideshow/beginners-tacklebox-with-bill-lowen/ Tue, 18 Dec 2018 22:45:00 +0000 http://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=photo-gallery&p=262203 Indiana Bassmaster Elite Series pro Bill Lowen will fill this empty flat box with what he believes are essential lures for beginning bass anglers.
Indiana Bassmaster Elite Series pro Bill Lowen will fill this empty flat box with what he believes are essential lures for beginning bass anglers.
Lowen digs into his boat locker to find the first lure for his beginner’s tacklebox.
Lowen digs into his boat locker to find the first lure for his beginner’s tacklebox.
Lure number one is a 1/4-ounce Bill Lowen Signature spinnerbait from lurepartsonline.com. “This compact spinnerbait works all over the country,” Lowen said. “It’s easy to fish and is the perfect profile to get a beginner a lot of bites.”
Lure number one is a 1/4-ounce Bill Lowen Signature spinnerbait from lurepartsonline.com. “This compact spinnerbait works all over the country,” Lowen said. “It’s easy to fish and is the perfect profile to get a beginner a lot of bites.”
The spinnerbait earns the first spot in the beginner’s tacklebox.
The spinnerbait earns the first spot in the beginner’s tacklebox.
Lure number two is a 1/4-ounce buzzbait from lurepartsonline.com. As with the compact spinnerbait, this small profile buzzbait gets bites in everything from ponds to huge impoundments.
Lure number two is a 1/4-ounce buzzbait from lurepartsonline.com. As with the compact spinnerbait, this small profile buzzbait gets bites in everything from ponds to huge impoundments.
The buzzbait joins the spinnerbait in the beginner’s box.
The buzzbait joins the spinnerbait in the beginner’s box.
Lowen’s third choice for the beginner’s box is Ima’s 3/8-ounce Finesse Popper. “It is an easy topwater bait to fish, and it gets exciting visual strikes,” Lowen said.
Lowen’s third choice for the beginner’s box is Ima’s 3/8-ounce Finesse Popper. “It is an easy topwater bait to fish, and it gets exciting visual strikes,” Lowen said.
The popper looks spiffy in the beginner’s tacklebox.
The popper looks spiffy in the beginner’s tacklebox.
This Ima HeliPs Propbait works especially well right after the spawn when bass are guarding fry, Lowen claimed.
This Ima HeliPs Propbait works especially well right after the spawn when bass are guarding fry, Lowen claimed.
Into the beginner’s tacklebox goes the Ima HeliPs.
Into the beginner’s tacklebox goes the Ima HeliPs.
This Ima Bill Lowen Squarebill Crankbait picks off bass lurking around shallow cover. “It’s very good about coming through wood cover,” Lowen said.
This Ima Bill Lowen Squarebill Crankbait picks off bass lurking around shallow cover. “It’s very good about coming through wood cover,” Lowen said.
The Ima squarebill joins the other lures in Lowen’s beginner’s tacklebox.
The Ima squarebill joins the other lures in Lowen’s beginner’s tacklebox.
The Dollar Bill flat crankbait from PH Custom Lures is a big hitter in early spring and late fall when the water is cool, Lowen pointed out. It has a tight wiggle, he added.
The Dollar Bill flat crankbait from PH Custom Lures is a big hitter in early spring and late fall when the water is cool, Lowen pointed out. It has a tight wiggle, he added.
The PH Custom Lures’ Dollar Bill sits behind the Ima square bill in the beginner’s box.
The PH Custom Lures’ Dollar Bill sits behind the Ima square bill in the beginner’s box.
Lowen recommends Ima’s Flit Jerkbait, which dives 6- to 8-feet deep. “It’s got a very erratic action, and it’s easy to fish,” Lowen said.
Lowen recommends Ima’s Flit Jerkbait, which dives 6- to 8-feet deep. “It’s got a very erratic action, and it’s easy to fish,” Lowen said.
A long slot in the beginner’s tacklebox is needed for the Flit Jerkbait.
A long slot in the beginner’s tacklebox is needed for the Flit Jerkbait.
One of Lowen’s flat boxes is reserved for a softbait that’s a big player for him, the Strike King Rage Craw.
One of Lowen’s flat boxes is reserved for a softbait that’s a big player for him, the Strike King Rage Craw.
He dresses one of his most productive lures with the Rage Craw, a Bill Lowen Swim Jig from lurepartsonline.com.
He dresses one of his most productive lures with the Rage Craw, a Bill Lowen Swim Jig from lurepartsonline.com.
The swim jig is ready to do battle. “Anybody can fish a swim jig,” Lowen said. “Just wind it in over grass and other cover and you show bass a very natural looking bait.”
The swim jig is ready to do battle. “Anybody can fish a swim jig,” Lowen said. “Just wind it in over grass and other cover and you show bass a very natural looking bait.”
The swim jig earns its place in the beginner’s box.
The swim jig earns its place in the beginner’s box.
This 5/16-ounce Bill Lowen Finesse Jig from lurepartsonline.com is dressed with a Strike King Perfect Plastic Chunk. Lowen relies heavily on this jig for bottom-hopping retrieves. “The compact size gets a lot of bites,” Lowen said. “That’s important when you’re learning how to fish a jig on the bottom. It also catches big fish.”
This 5/16-ounce Bill Lowen Finesse Jig from lurepartsonline.com is dressed with a Strike King Perfect Plastic Chunk. Lowen relies heavily on this jig for bottom-hopping retrieves. “The compact size gets a lot of bites,” Lowen said. “That’s important when you’re learning how to fish a jig on the bottom. It also catches big fish.”
Into the box goes the Finesse Jig. This one has already seen battle.
Into the box goes the Finesse Jig. This one has already seen battle.
Srike King’s durable, stretchy, 3X ElazTech 5-inch Zero/Z-Too will serve many functions for beginning bass anglers, Lowen asserted. In this instance Lowen has it wacky rigged. Fishing this bait wacky style is an easy technique for beginning anglers to master. “You can catch a lot of bass on each bait because the plastic doesn’t tear up easily,” Lowen said.
Srike King’s durable, stretchy, 3X ElazTech 5-inch Zero/Z-Too will serve many functions for beginning bass anglers, Lowen asserted. In this instance Lowen has it wacky rigged. Fishing this bait wacky style is an easy technique for beginning anglers to master. “You can catch a lot of bass on each bait because the plastic doesn’t tear up easily,” Lowen said.
A wacky rigged Zero/Z-Too and a bag of these baits goes into the beginner’s tacklebox.
A wacky rigged Zero/Z-Too and a bag of these baits goes into the beginner’s tacklebox.
Lowen searches for a hook in one of his flat boxes reserved specifically for hooks.
Lowen searches for a hook in one of his flat boxes reserved specifically for hooks.
He selects a straight shank 3/0 worm hook and uses it to Texas rig a 4-inch Strike King Rage Hawg with a 1/4-ounce Reins tungsten bullet weight. “This snag-free bait is a bite getter all season long,” Lowen said. “I drag and hop it over the bottom.”
He selects a straight shank 3/0 worm hook and uses it to Texas rig a 4-inch Strike King Rage Hawg with a 1/4-ounce Reins tungsten bullet weight. “This snag-free bait is a bite getter all season long,” Lowen said. “I drag and hop it over the bottom.”
The Rage Hawg goes into the beginner’s tacklebox.
The Rage Hawg goes into the beginner’s tacklebox.
Strike King’s 6-inch Perfect Plastic Finesse Worm works anywhere in the country and catches bass throughout the year, Lowen claimed. He uses it for multiple applications, including Texas rigging, wacky rigging, with a shaky head jig, for drop shot fishing and more. “The rigging options are endless,” Lowen said.
Strike King’s 6-inch Perfect Plastic Finesse Worm works anywhere in the country and catches bass throughout the year, Lowen claimed. He uses it for multiple applications, including Texas rigging, wacky rigging, with a shaky head jig, for drop shot fishing and more. “The rigging options are endless,” Lowen said.
The Strike King Finesse Worm joins the other lures in the beginner’s tacklebox.
The Strike King Finesse Worm joins the other lures in the beginner’s tacklebox.
Lowen cuts a Strike King Zero/Z-Too in half to make two baits.
Lowen cuts a Strike King Zero/Z-Too in half to make two baits.
He rigs one of the baits onto a 5/32-ounce Stick Worm Head from lurepartsonline.com. This is his version of the Ned Rig. “The 5/32-ounce size is on the heavy side for this type of bait,” Lowen said. “But the extra weight is easier for a beginner to fish because you can feel the bottom better with it.
He rigs one of the baits onto a 5/32-ounce Stick Worm Head from lurepartsonline.com. This is his version of the Ned Rig. “The 5/32-ounce size is on the heavy side for this type of bait,” Lowen said. “But the extra weight is easier for a beginner to fish because you can feel the bottom better with it.
Into the tacklebox goes this finesse combination.
Into the tacklebox goes this finesse combination.
Lowen’s completed tacklebox contains a wide assortment of lures that will get any beginning bass angler off to a strong start.
Lowen’s completed tacklebox contains a wide assortment of lures that will get any beginning bass angler off to a strong start.
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