What is stick bait?

Ah, the stick bait—an intriguing and versatile piece of tackle that every bass angler should have in their arsenal. Stick baits, also known as soft stickbaits or jerkbaits, are cylindrical soft plastic lures that mimic the natural movement of baitfish. They're particularly effective for bass fishing due to their subtle yet enticing action.

Characteristics of Stick Baits

• Shape and Size: Stick baits typically have a straight, slender profile, often resembling a pencil. Sizes vary, but they generally range from 3 to 6 inches.
• Material: Made from soft plastic, these baits offer a natural feel that encourages fish to bite and hold on longer.
• Weighting: Some come with built-in weights, while others require additional weight to achieve the desired sink rate and action.

Techniques for Using Stick Baits

1. Weightless Rigging: This is perhaps the most popular technique. The stick bait is rigged on a hook without any additional weight, allowing it to fall slowly and horizontally. As it falls, give it an occasional twitch to mimic the erratic movement of a dying baitfish. This technique is particularly effective around shallow cover or in clear water.

2. Wacky Rigging: Hook the bait through the middle, letting both ends dangle freely. This method creates a unique action that drives bass wild, especially in pressured waters. Check out this YouTube video for some great visuals on how to rig and fish with stick baits.

3. Texas Rigging: For those weedier areas, Texas rigging your stick bait can help prevent snagging. It also allows for a more aggressive presentation, perfect for enticing those finicky bass.

Stick Baits and Weather Conditions

During early summer, the water temperatures are rising. Bass tend to be more active and will often move into shallower waters to hunt. This is a perfect time to use stick baits weightlessly or with a light Texas rig, allowing them to glide through the water column naturally.

Weather-Specific Fishing Tip

In warm weather, focus on early mornings or late afternoons when water temperatures are cooler, and bass are more likely to be feeding actively. Overcast days can also prolong feeding periods.

Product Recommendation

If you're looking to expand your tackle box, consider the Strike King Shim-E-Stick. It's heavily salt-impregnated, which helps with casting distance and encourages fish to hold on longer once they bite.

Stick baits are a fantastic tool for the bass angler, adaptable to a variety of fishing situations. Experiment with different techniques and let the fish tell you what they want. 🎣 Keep casting and tight lines!