Do stripers like curly tail grubs on the troll?

When it comes to trolling for striped bass, or stripers as they're affectionately known, anglers often debate the effectiveness of various lures. One such lure that frequently enters the conversation is the curly tail grub. So, do stripers like curly tail grubs on the troll? The short answer is: absolutely, they can be quite effective!

Curly tail grubs are versatile lures that mimic the movement of small baitfish or other prey in the water. Their distinctive curly tail creates a lifelike swimming action that can be irresistible to predatory fish like stripers. When trolling, the key is to ensure that the grub is presented at the right depth and speed to match the natural behavior of the prey in the area.

Why Curly Tail Grubs Work

1. Action: The curly tail of the grub creates a natural swimming motion that can attract stripers from a distance. This action is particularly effective in clear water where visibility is high.

2. Versatility: These grubs can be used in various water conditions and are effective in both freshwater and saltwater environments. They can be rigged on a jig head or used as a trailer on a larger lure.

3. Color Variety: Curly tail grubs come in a wide range of colors, allowing you to match the hatch or stand out in murky waters. Bright colors can be particularly effective in stained water.

Tips for Trolling with Curly Tail Grubs

• Speed Control: Maintain a consistent trolling speed that allows the grub to swim naturally. Too fast, and the action may become erratic; too slow, and it might not attract attention.

• Depth Management: Use a depth finder to locate where the stripers are holding and adjust your trolling depth accordingly. Adding weight or using a downrigger can help keep your lure in the strike zone.

• Experiment with Colors: Start with natural colors like white or silver, and switch to brighter colors if the bite is slow.

• Pair with Other Lures: Sometimes, using a curly tail grub as a trailer on a larger lure like a bucktail jig can increase its effectiveness.

Practical Tip

Try using a tandem rig setup with two different colored curly tail grubs. This not only increases your chances of a strike but also helps you determine which color is more effective on a given day.

In conclusion, while curly tail grubs might not be the first lure that comes to mind for trolling stripers, they are certainly worth a try. Their lifelike action and versatility make them a valuable addition to any angler's tackle box. So next time you're out on the water, give them a whirl and you might just hook into a trophy striper! Happy fishing! 🎣