What lure should I use to catch small finicky bass that are newly added but there’s bigger fish around?

Catching small, finicky bass added to a water body with larger fish can indeed be challenging, but it’s not impossible. The trick lies in using the right lures and techniques to appeal to their cautious nature.

Best Lures for Finicky Bass

1. Finesse Worms: When it comes to targeting smaller, more tentative bass, a finesse worm can be your best friend. The subtle action of a weightless or lightly weighted finesse worm can be irresistible. Consider the YAMAMOTO 4" Senko Soft Plastic Worm. These worms have a natural action that can entice bites from wary bass.

2. Drop Shot Rigs: The drop shot rig is another excellent option. This rig allows your bait to hover slightly above the bottom, which is ideal for finicky fish that may be wary of striking something they see as unnatural.

3. Small Crankbaits and Jerkbaits: Downsizing your crankbaits and jerkbaits can also be effective. These lures can mimic the smaller prey that these new bass are likely used to seeing.

4. Topwater Lures: On calm days, using a topwater lure like a small popper or a Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait can trigger reaction strikes from curious bass.

Techniques to Try

• Slow Presentation: Slow down your presentation to give these bass enough time to inspect your lure. This technique can make the difference between a strike and a shy away. Check out this video on slowing down your presentation to catch more finicky bass.

• Match the Hatch: Use lures that mimic the natural prey. For newly added bass, smaller baits that resemble minnows or small insects can be very effective.

• Use Light Line: Opt for a lighter line to make your presentation more subtle and less intimidating to cautious fish.

Practical Tip

Try using a spinning setup with light line and a small worm or jig. Cast parallel to the shore or structure and let the bait slowly sink. Give it small twitches to mimic natural movement and keep a close eye on your line for any subtle takes.

With patience and the right approach, you’ll be catching those finicky bass in no time. Keep your spirits high and your line tight – there’s nothing like the thrill of the catch! 🎣