Pro Tips

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Sizzlin' a Jig, By Travis Rulle

For pre, post-spawn, and most shallow water grass situations spring through fall. I like to use a technique called "sizzling a Jig". Sizzling a slang name for swimming a jig, is one of the most versatile and over looked patterns. What I have found while using this technique, is that this presentation is most productive while using a constant retrieve, while holding your rod around the 10 o'clock position. I try not to alter my retrieve by a stop and go or pumping of the rod, due to the fact that most of your strikes are reaction strikes and usually just under the surface. I use different sized weighted jigs (1/4oz-1/2oz) depending on speed and depth of presentation. I team up my jig with either a single or twin tail grub trailer in matching colors to the jig. I find that most bites while sizzling are visible and vicious. I have also found that sizzling a jig is a great alternative for a spinnerbaits on highly pressured lakes.

My choice in colors are based on forage and water and light conditions. For example if I am faced with slightly stained water and cloudy conditions I would reach for a black and blue jig. Turn that cloudy day in to a sunny day with the same stained water, I would pick a green pumpkin chartreuse combination. I only pick the chartreuse due to the stain of the water. If shad is the predominate forage base and most available to the bass, I would be forced to use whites. 

The best and most efficient way to custom match the present condition that you will be faced with on the water, is to use Naked Bait Co. Skirt expander and skirt material. Its extremely easy to use on and off the water to precisely match the ever changing weather and water conditions. 

Good luck and bass wishes,

Travis Rulle

In mid summer to early fall I like a technique I call "dragging a Texas rig".  When the sun starts coming out of the sky and it's getting hot out, dragging worms or creatures over off shore rock piles or stick piles can be very productive.  I like to use a (1/8 - 3/8) bullet weight sinker pegged on a (2/0 - 4/0) extra wide gap hook.  Some of my favorite plastics to use are brush hogs, sweet beavers and black power worms in all sizes and colors. I like to use a 7 foot heavy action rod with 17 pound test fluorocarbon line with a 6.3:1 gear ratio reel for a speedy retrieve.  When I'm dragging plastics I try to find a small over lookin' area where people wouldn't normally bother to go.  When I find that area I cast to the middle and work my way out of the structure.  Once I feel my bait bouncing and hitting the structure I slow down my presentation and work the area until I feel no more bass are holding on the structure and I move to the next spot.  A lot of the time the bass will strike the lure when it is sitting still so watch your line for twitches or movement.  Then when you feel the bass.. SET THE HOOK!

Good luck on the water!!

Nick Wolf 

Dragging a Texas Rig.  By Nick Wolf