Merry Christmas from IBASSIN

The 2015 Bassmaster Elite Series Anglers

By: BASS

Dec 22, 2014

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The 2015 Bassmaster Elite Series field is now set with a mixture of well-known veteran pros and young up-and-comers ready to zig-zag the country, vying for thousands of dollars and the coveted Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year title.
Topping the 113-angler field is Greg Hackney of Gonzales, La., who won the 2014 A.R.E. Truck Caps Bassmaster Elite Series event on New York’s Cayuga Lake en route to capturing the 2014 Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. The remainder of last year’s Top 5 points earners is also returning with four-time B.A.S.S. tournament winner Todd Faircloth of Jasper, Texas; three-time winner Jacob Powroznik of Port Haywood, Va.; six-time winner Aaron Martens of Leeds, Ala.; and five-time winner Mark Davis of Mount Ida, Ark.
There will be 13 newcomers to the Elite Series field, including Brent Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., who qualified by finishing seventh in the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Northern Opens standings. Though he has yet to win a B.A.S.S. event, Ehrler has enjoyed success on the FLW Tour with eight victories, 33 career Top 10 finishes and more than $2.2 million in earnings during a decade-long career.
The field will feature a dozen former Classic winners, including Davis, Rick Clunn of Ava, Mo., Paul Elias of Laurel, Miss.; Davy Hite of Ninety Six, S.C.; Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich.; Michael Iaconelli of Runnemede, N.J.; Takahiro Omori of Emory, Texas; Boyd Duckett of Demopolis, Ala.; Alton Jones of Lorena, Texas; Skeet Reese of Auburn, Calif.; Cliff Pace of Petal, Miss.; and 2014 winner Randy Howell of Springville, Ala.

Rapala Lure Selector App

Rapala – The worldwide leader in fishing lures is proud to unveil the world’s first mobile app for fishing lure selection…The RAPALA Lure SelectorTM

Designed under the strict guidance of Canadian pro-fisherman like Italo Labignan, the app sets out to unlock the mystery of lure selection for a variety of fishing conditions.  With over 2000 unique Rapala models available in Canada it can be a daunting task to determine which body shape, size or color will give you the best results on any given day.  At Rapala we understand this… and so does our app!

Ever wondered why the fish aren’t biting?...Could be your lure choice…as fishermen, we always tend to second guess, but now you can fish with confidence knowing the Rapala Lure SelectorTM has optimized the results based on species, weather patterns and other variables!

Feds Flight Back Against Aquatic Invasives

Take from OODMAG.com
By April Scott-Clark

Both the Canadian and U.S. federal governments have recently taken steps to help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species, such as Asian carps, zebra and quagga mussels, and sea lamprey.

Earlier this month, the Canadian federal government purposed Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations that, if passed, will provide a national regulatory framework to help prevent intentional and unintentional introductions of aquatic invasive species in Canada from other countries, across provincial and territorial borders, and between ecosystems within a region.

If these carp get into our waterways it will change fishing forever. 

The regulations would also include response and control activities, such as giving Canadian Border Services Agency officers the ability to enforce prohibitions against import at the Canadian border.

The Future of Ranger, Triton and Stratos Boats. Part 2

Is this the Death of FLW?
By Luigi De Rose

Last Friday, Bass Pro Shop announced that it acquired Ranger, Triton and Stratos boats. This deal has transformed Bass Pro Shops into the largest bass boat company in the world and one of the largest boat companies in America. With this deal came many concerns on how the bass fishing world would be affected. Here is Part 2 of our look into this matter.

Corporate Alliances

The tournament organization FLW had two title sponsors; Ranger Boats and Walmart, both are the backbone of their entire operation. Here lies the potential problem.  Will Bass Pro Shop (BPS) continue to honour Ranger’s commitment to FLW or will BPS remain focused on their Bassmaster sponsorship? Currently, BPS is the main sponsor for the BASS Open events. Even a slight pullback of financial support could make a huge difference in FLW’s bottom line and future.

The second major conflict is retail between Bass Pro Shops and Walmart. Walmart is a huge player in FLW events, so much so that the last two weigh-ins of every Tour event take place at a Walmart. How willing is Johnny Morris, owner and CEO of Bass Pro Shops, of supporting a tournament organization that promotes a direct rival?  Will FLW events start taking place in Bass Pro Shop parking lots? It might not be that crazy of a notion.

One possible outcome is that BASS develops stronger alliances with Bass Pro Shop and Ranger Boats. Ranger could become the official bass boat of BASS and BPS could be the main Tour event sponsor. This scenario would strengthen BASS as it cripples FLW. Fans and anglers embrace two national tours but remember these are businesses that wish to generate as much money and power as possible. This could be a very big win for BASS if they play their cards correctly. Regardless of the combination of conflicts or outcomes, FLW outdoors will have to dance a very dangerous dance to remain one of the best tournament organizations.

The Future of Ranger, Triton and Stratos Boats.

Making Sense of it All

By Luigi De Rose

The internet was a blur after Bass Pro Shop’s announcement that they acquired Ranger, Triton and Stratos boats last Friday. After the shock of the announcement, positive and negative reaction to this press release started to develop.  Speculation is never a strong leg to stand on. Clarity will only emerge over time.

Here is our attempt to bring some clarity to this historic acquisition.

The Future

When Ranger bought Stratos and Champion boats a few years back. Fears were realized when Champion become redundant and was sadly axed.  Stratos continued to prosper and soon adopted the Champion hull, which many felt was an improvement but scores of Champion owners were disappointed that their beloved boats were gone.

Time will be the most significant factor in the longevity of Stratos, Triton and Ranger. Ranger will rein supreme because it simply is Ranger. The other two boats might have rocky futures. If a decision to cull one of the two boats is made it will be made immediately or in two to three years. After sales projections and financial statements are securitized, a decision will be made if all three will continue. I feel that whoever lags in sales might be eventually be cut.

Tracker boats might not be in this equation because they’re an aluminum boat builder where the other three plus Nitro are all fiberglass. If Ranger broadens its aluminum boat production it might limit Tracker product line but only time can tell.

Another key question is which boat will be considered the ultimate Bass Pro Shop Boat? Will Ranger remain the crown jewel, followed by Nitro, Triton and then Stratos or will the Nitro boats be kept under a different category simply to run parallel to the other three? No one knows but it is a huge worry if I was an Elite or FLW angler waiting to make a down payment on a home.

Sponsorship

How will the sponsorship and media dollars be spent? Anglers, tournament organizations and media sources will now have fewer doors to knock on when looking for money. This has been a steady trend in the fishing industry for some time. Only look towards Pure Fishing, Pradco and Normark for greater clarity on the issue.  Mega corporations have many disadvantages especially for newcomers. Established anglers, TV shows and others in the media outlets might have the leverage to broker bigger

BASS PRO SHOPS become King of the Bass Boat World! Buys Ranger, Triton & Stratos Boats

BASS PRO Shops acquires Ranger, Triton and Stratos boats from Platinum Equity. This blockbuster deal will change the landscape of tournament and tournament angler sponsorship for decades to come.

Here is an excerpt of the press release:

SPRINGFIELD, MO – Bass Pro Group announced today an agreement to acquire Fishing Holdings, LLC, a manufacturer of fishing boats that include Ranger Boats and the Stratos and Triton boat brands from Platinum Equity.
The agreement combines popular fishing boat brands that are recognized internationally. It also creates another connection between two industry leaders, Bass Pro Shops founder/CEO Johnny Morris and Ranger Boats founder Forrest Wood, who are dedicated fishermen, conservationists and entrepreneurs. Years ago the iconic outdoorsmen both began fishing on the White River and White River Chain of Lakes in the Ozarks and even fished together in the first National BASS Tournaments.
“This partnership brings added long-term stability for both companies and for the dealer networks that provide customers with quality boats at exceptional values,” said Morris, who also is founder/CEO of Tracker Marine Group. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Forrest Wood many years, and I deeply respect him and his family that founded and built a solid performing business with excellent products.” 

The New Jackall DOWZVIDO 90 Jerkbait with FLW Pro Cody Meyers and IBA...

Jackall is making an even better push into the North American market in 2015. Here is one of many new baits that will be announced in the next few months.

Freedom Tackle Corp. and BASS Elite Series Pro Jared Lintner Join Forces.

"We are excited to have Jared as part of our Pro Staff team for 2015. Jared is a great angler, we believe he'll be one of the best again this year."

Freedom Tackle Corp. is known for their patented interchangeable hook design which allows anglers to use any brand or style of hook on their jigs/spinner baits for total customization.

Freedom Tackle Corp.'s "Hydra" (Swim bait head) was one of Jared's favourite baits during his 2014 Elite Series season.

"We are strong advocates of the 'Future of Fishing' and Jared is a great

ambassador in educating and supporting the 'next generation' of anglers. The

sport of fishing is changing...and we welcome Jared to the Freedom Tackle

Revolution

New York Times Chimes in on the Alabama Rig.

When the New York Times decides fishing is worth some precious space on it's pages, it must be a hot topic. As of late, the Alabama Rig has been banned on both the BASS and FLW tour trails because many feel it is unsporting for competitors to use it. 

Here is an interesting read on the matter. 

The device is composed of five wires angled like spokes of an umbrella, with fishing lures attached to each end. It mimics a school of baitfish, and bass, walleye and northern pike apparently cannot stay away from it.

Its inventor, Andy Poss, dreamed up the device, which he called the Alabama Rig, while watching a tuna chasing a school of sardines on “The Blue Planet,” a BBC documentary series. In July 2011, he built his first prototype by hand in his garage in Muscle Shoals, Ala., and he spent nearly 17 months perfecting it.

Link to full article

From Footballs to Fins: Lunkerhunt Grabs Sensabaugh

Lunkerhunt Premium Fishing Lures is excited to announce that Gerald Sensabaugh is officially a member of the Lunkerhunt Pro Fishing Team! Follow us this season as Gerald fishes the Bass Master Northern and Central Opens. You can also follow Gerald's transition from Pro Football to Pro Fishing athttps://www.facebook.com/GSensabaugh — with Gerald Sensabaugh.

Happy Thanksgiving to all our American Buddies.

Hank Parker Moves to Lew's after Decades with Abu!

Two legendary names in fishing, Lew's and Hank Parker, have teamed in a promotional agreement for 2015 to carry the family fun of fishing message into millions of American households across the county.

Legendary angler Hank Parker is
moving to Lew's as of  2015.

"Hank Parker's Outdoor Magazine" will celebrate its 29th consecutive year on television when its 2015 season begins on Dec. 29. The Lew's brand got its start in the 1950s, but has been on a rapid resurgence in popularity ever since new ownership in 2009 has steadily introduced an all-new lineup of rods, reels, combos and accessories.

"Lew's and Hank Parker's images and brands have closely paralleled one another over the past three decades, meaning we take our fishing seriously but have a lot of fun in doing it," said Lew's CEO Lynn Reeves. "While the sport will always be about the sheer pleasure of spending time together on the water with family and friends, it's the avid fishing enthusiasts like Hank that help inspire and educate all ages to get involved in the activity. Our goal is to introduce more people to fishing."

Parker, who was once introduced during a CBS Morning Show appearance as the "rod-n-reel" answer to legendary pro basketball player Michael Jordan in "popularity and talent," had success first as a bass tournament angler and champion before turning his popularity into a full-time career as an outdoor show TV host.

Help Fuel Continued Advancement for America’s Fastest-Growing Lure Brand

Driven by a steady increase in retail product placement stemming from heightened consumer awareness and sales, Z-Man Fishing Products is excited to announce several key extensions to its 2015 marketing mix. The bulk of the company’s upward media progression will focus on Pro Staff expansion, a growing commitment to leading industry broadcast show sponsorships, and the continued creation and distribution of original digital video content.

If you have what it takes contact them. 

Contact: Jeff Espy, Adventure Advertising, LLC


jeff@adventureadv.com; (678) 730-4770

Backwoods Rods: A Real Canadian Gem.

A Nickel for Good Luck!
By Luigi De Rose

Being an outdoor writer has perks and one of them is seeing amazing fishing gear. IBASSIN readers have enjoyed photos and read stories of my trips to Japanese tackle stores and discoveries at ICAST but rarely do we celebrate local talent. Backwoods Rods is a Canadian rod company that takes craftsmenship to the next level. 

The ALPS Nickel Butt Cap
offers a truly unique Canadian touch.

Daniel Sturges and his Backwoods fishing rods caught my attention recently. The on-line world is flooded with companies trying to lighten your wallet but most often nothing is ever too exciting. 

Backwoods Rods seemed different right off the bat and the more I discovered about the him and his team of three master rod builders, the more interested I became. 

 Daniel makes several species specific rods but I focused on the bass gear. Over his 18 years of rod building, Daniel has created 140 models so customers can obtain the exact action, size and feel they crave. 


Here is a photo essay and run down of his bass rods.

First is a 7'6" Telescopic Flippin/Pitchin Styx with a Anodized "Dual Trigger Reel Seat" Titanium/Zirconium "Flanged" Casting Guides. They also do a 7'10" -1 Pc. Rattin/Frog Rod as well as a Swimbait Rod with Split Cork Handles.

Components and rod blank are brought in from Batson Enterprises in Sequim Washington. They start 

with a Rainshadow RX8 Rod Blank which are extremely light yet very powerful.

More custom rod work below

Turn Your Phone into Fishing Machine

SonarPhone is an exciting enhancement to the Navionics Boating app that connects your mobile device to sonar via Wi-Fi and displays the results in split screen with Navionics charts. It also enables enhancements to future SonarCharts™ anywhere you go. The new sonar feature is available now on Navionics Boating app for iPhone and iPad and is coming soon for Android devices!  We hope you enjoy trying it out.

JACKALL LURES HOOKS NOTED ANGLER DAVE MERCER

When it comes to fishing, especially bass fishing, there are not many anglers that bring both expertise and fun to it like Dave Mercer. Along with filming his ‘Fact of Fishing’ show and emceeing the weigh-ins at B.A.S.S. tournaments, Mercer will now be on the water using the latest in Jackall Lures soft baits.

Dave's hooked on Jackall!

“Dave’s dynamic personality and how he can relate to bass anglers of all skill levels is an ideal combination to introduce even more anglers in North America to Jackall soft baits," said Bob Mahoney, who helps oversee the Jackall marketing efforts done by Shimano. "We’ll look forward to bringing his fishing knowledge and input - as he does for Shimano - to our associates at Jackall in developing new baits, new colors and new fishing technique ideas.”

Mercer has already been using an assortment of Jackall softs baits, from FlickShake worms and Cover Craw creature baits, to just introduced baits like the Sasuteki Craw and Scissor Comb. He’ll offer his expertise on fishing soft plastics at seminars this coming winter throughout North America, and also on his TV shows airing on the Outdoor Channel, World Fishing Network, SportsNet 360 and ESPN International.

Protecting Our Resources

Help prevent the entry of asian carp into our waterways just got a whole lot easier. The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters along with Invasive Species Centre have a new site and phone number to call if you spot one of these nastiest.

Report a sightings at: 1-800-563-7711 or www.asiancarp.ca

X ZONE Lures up for sale.

Popular Canadian soft plastic lure company is currently up for sale.
Mark Kulik, owner of X Zone, feels that this is a wise life decision to sell
his company. X Zone gained market shares with strong sales from it's drop shot
slammer. The company pour several drop shot style baits plus has recently done well
with a line of swimbaits. 

LEST WE FORGET.

On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in 1918, World War I—one of the most significant wars in the history of mankind—ended. Since then, thousands of brave men and women have lost their lives while serving our great country. Today, we stop to honor them. 

Paul Mueller Wins 2014 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship!

Muller's Win Bumps Brownridge from Classic Spot

By Tyler Wade

bass press release

MONROE, La. — When it counts, Paul Mueller knows how to catch a big limit of fish.

That’s what he did on the final day of the 2014 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on the Ouachita River, when his 14-pound, 9-ounce sack earned him the top spot and the Bryan V. Kerchal Memorial Trophy.

Mueller, of Naugatuck, Conn., has a track record of catching the big ones when he needs them.

Mueller's big bag on the final day knocked Doug Brownridge out of
 Classic appearance. Doug would have been the second
Canadian ever to make it to the Classic.
(Photo: BASS)

He did it earlier this year at the 2014 GEICO Bassmaster Classic when, after a dismal first day that threatened to eliminate him from competition, he went and caught 32 pounds, 3 ounces — the biggest five-bass limit in Bassmaster Classic history — to show that he was still in the game.

Mueller’s final three-day weight on the Ouachita was only a little more than his one-day record-busting bag in the Classic at 32 pounds, 15 ounces.

2014 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship Day 2: Carden Remains Leader

Despite engine problems and changing conditions Carden continues to excel. 

By Tyler Wade

bass press release

MONROE, La. — Coby Carden took a gamble on Day 2 of the 2014 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Louisiana’s Ouachita River, and it paid off.

“I did something completely different today,” said Carden after the Day 2 weigh-in. “Because I was near the front of the takeoff line, I thought I could be one of the first ones to Bayou D’Arbonne.”

Canadian Doug Brownridge moved up to 6th with 17-7.
Unfortunately, two other Eastern teammates rank higher.
(Photo: BASS)

His spot on Day 2 was nowhere near his Day 1 area, where he caught 11 pounds, 8 ounces and took the lead of the tournament.

But he knew he couldn’t count on getting that one big-fish bite in his primary area and wanted to cement his lead in the championship and earn back-to-back Bassmaster Classic berths.

It was a good call. Carden caught 11 pounds, 12 ounces in the bayou. Then, at 10:45, he was heading back down the lake. He found a great fish and got her to bite three times, but he couldn’t get her to commit.

He decided to move on, and that’s when his motor started acting up.

“My high pressure fuel pump had gone out,” said Carden. “I could prime the bulb and run for a quarter-mile, but then I’d have to stop.”

2014 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship Day 1: Carden Take Lead!

Canadian Doug Brownridge sit in 10th. 

By Tyler Wade

basss press release

MONROE, La. — Jennifer Carden of Calera, Ala., likes to see her husband in first place. And when she comes to Coby Carden’s events, she usually gets exactly that.

Jennifer surprised Coby by driving all day a couple of years ago with their two kids in tow to the 2013 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Southern Divisional, and he not only led each day but he won the event.

Jennifer and the kids showed up again last night — unexpectedly — and Coby now has the Day 1 lead of the 2014 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Louisiana’s Ouachita River.

Cody Carden's big bass vaults him into the lead.
(Photo: BASS)

“She likes surprises,” said Coby with a laugh after the first weigh-in of the event. “Let’s hope it works out again this time.”

Coby Carden has had a pretty great run the last two years. He won the 2013 divisional, went on to win his division last year at the championship, competed in the 2014 GEICO Bassmaster Classic and finished in the top half of the field, and then won his state again this year at the 2014 divisional.

He wants to get back to the Classic again, but that’s not all: He wants to win it.

“That’s just the competitor in me,” said Carden, a member of the LA Po Boys club in Alabama. “I want to win.”

But he has two more days of tough competition before a Classic win is even a possibility — a fact that has not escaped him.

2014 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship Start Today

Wishing Canadian Doug Brownridge the best of luck at the Nationals! 

Photo: BASS

For more on this tournament link to www.bassmaster.com

Shimano Revamps Website

QUESTIONS BEFORE THE CAST? VISIT SHIMANO’S NEW WEB SITE

IRVINE, Calif. – October 30, 2014 – For Immediate Release -- Jump online today to see the new Shimano – at least in cyberspace – with the launch of the tackle makers upgraded web site at http://fish.shimano.com. The link brings you directly to a new way to learn about not only Shimano tackle and fishing lifestyle gear, but also customer and technical service information and dealer locations throughout North America.

  “This is a huge upgrade to let anglers learn everything and anything about Shimano tackle and gear,” said Robert Armstrong with Shimano’s fishing tackle online team. “You’ll able to quickly compare all our reels to make the right decision on the size and features for your personal fishing needs, and then check out our entire rod line-up to match it up with the right model that suits your choice in lengths, actions and line weight designations.”

Armstrong notes the new web site is dominated with product information. “In all our talks with anglers over the past year at tournaments, fishing shows and tackle dealer events, the overwhelming request was they wanted us to provide every available detail and specifications possible on our rods, reels and fishing gear. You’ll see that quickly in our new upgraded site. ”

Anglers can stay updated on Shimano events, shows, pro anglers and other information by liking Shimano on Facebook - www.facebook.com/fishshimano.

Happy Halloween from IBASSIN

Have a spooky day and hope you have a great Halloween
without a "scare" in the world. 

A Late Fall Must for Trophy Smallmouth Bass.

You need these baits.
By Luigi De Rose

The JACKALL Squirrel DD is a top choice for cold water. 

Deep diving jerkbaits are a must for late fall trophy smallmouth bass fishing. If you looking for these minnow baits, you might have to move pass the bass fishing section and over to the walleye one in the tackle store. Often, these deep diver plugs are considered walleye baits but they're lethal on trophy sized smallies. Don't expect them to glide and dance like short billed baits. These deep divers are ideal for more sluggish action as they remain deep. 

Here are a few to remember:

Jackall Squirrel DD

Rapala X Rap 

MORE BELOW

Late Fall Fever

Biggest of the big lurk for the willing angler.
By Luigi De Rose 

Wind, cool temperatures and unwilling friends can make fishing in late fall difficult. The wind and lack of companionship kept me off the water this weekend and now I am kicking myself. Boating during this calendar period can be chilly but if you have the nerve and a warm jacket the rewards are worth it.

Here is IBASSIN.com friend David Chong with an amazing 8.2 pound Lake Simcoe giant. Dave only got a handful of bites but how can you complain when you net your personal best smallmouth.

For photos of Dave's big bass link over to IBASSIN.com's facebook page.
www.facebook.com/pages/ibassincom/265989363495983


For more on how to catch record size smallmouth bass, sign up to BASS TALK. These seminars give you the best knowledge you'll find anywhere. For more information on BASS TALK jump to the links:
www.basstalk.ca/

www.facebook.com/groups/13104560932/?fref=ts

Cold Weather Preventative Boat Maintenance with IBASSIN.com

Learn how to prevent boat and motor problems during the fall and winter. Follow these tips will ensure your motor, pumps and fuel remains safe. This video will explain some preventative boat maintenance that will keep you on the water and your rig out of trouble.

Top Bass 2014 Classic Awards

Top Bass Tournament Series was booming in 2014. With record numbers of tournament participants, each event was exciting.  Here's a video shot at the 2014 Classic this September.

Paul Castellano and Taro Murata Win the Bass Pro Shop Open

Castellano and Murata whip windy Lake Simcoe.
By Luigi De Rose

Castellano and Murata are all smiles with a great win.

Top 5

1. Paul Castellano & Taro Murata 24.1lbs
2. Patrick Campbell &  Mathew Holland 24 lbs  + 6.30lb Smallmouth
3. Ben Sabourin & Glenn Thompson 19.76 lbs
4. Simon & Melanie Frost 18.85 lbs
5. Derek Strub & Mike DesForges 18.25lbs

Cold Water Jerkbait Tips with Jackall Pro Cody Meyers and IBASSIN

Jackall pro Cody Meyers explains how to use jerkbaits for smallmouth and largemouth bass when the water turns cold in the fall and winter months. Learn how to adjust your jerkbait for when the bass are shy and the water is cool.

Fall Crankbait Techniques with Duo Realis pro Kevin Hawk and IBASSIN

FLW Cup champ and Bassmaster Elite angler Kevin Hawk explains a great autumn presentation for catching big bass by casting a deep diving crankbait. Learn as he explains to the followers of IBASSIN.com how to approach fall bass fishing.

For more fishing news, techniques and how-to videos click onto www.ibassin.com

Happy Thanksgiving!

Five Fabulous Fall Baits for Bass: Jigs

The power of the jig. 

By Luigi De Rose

Largemouth and smallmouth will eat
the jig equally well. Keep the jig on bottom close to
the bass will help you score. 

Football jigs, a close cousin to flipping jigs, were designed specifically for bouncing along deep, rocky bottoms. The major difference is its chubby football shaped head with the line tie at 90 to 60 degrees. This designed won’t wedge between boulders and is surprising good in thin vegetation. Most football jigs are heavy, 1/2oz to 1oz, ideal for staying on bottom. Strikes typically occur at the end of long casts so solid hooksets can be a challenge. Make sure it has an ultra sharp hook and thinned weed guard, if it has one at all.  

Football jigs are best worked around deep grasslines, bluff banks, bars, points or saddle areas between islands. Surprisingly, this technique is a quick and easy way to check expansive areas. It vacuuming up aggressive biters yet enticing fickle ones too. Work  footballs more like a crankbait or Carolina rig than a traditional jig. Dragging it with sweeping rod pulls or crawl it under a leisurely retrieve. Stick to a twin tail grub or frog chuck trailer. Olive, melon, pumpkin, peanut butter and jam, or craw colours are best.

Finesse & mini jigs

Finesse or mini jigs are a junior version of a flipping jig. These bite sized jigs are ideal in a multitude of fishing conditions. Ultra shallow, clear water, heavy fishing pressure, cold fronts or cold water are all ideal mini jig situations.

In high stakes tournaments in Ontario, the success of mini jigs have secretly flowed through the ranks of the elite. Big weights and top finishes speak volumes. Many anglers have literally turned their tournament career around solely on the success of mini jigs. Once an after though, these jigs are much underestimated. Much of it does have roots in scientific research. Immature crayfish evacuate the shallows to escape scores of predators. Bass living along deeper structure are accustom to feeding on smaller crayfish making a tinier jig an ideal snack. 

Compact sizes don’t always translate to dainty weights. A few companies pour finesse jigs up to 1/2oz and with strong hooks, but they’re a rare find. Skilled manufacturers shrewdly manipulated the lead head to remain minuscule yet heavy. Others have switched to tungsten, a pricy non-toxic lead alternative. Regardless, mini jigs can transform a day from hoe-hum to amazing.

Jigs are core bass tackle. Throw them more often and fine tune which type of jig will suit the fishing conditions your in will almost guarantee success. 

Five Fabulous Fall Baits for Bass: Tube jigs

Terribly terrific tubes.

By Luigi  De Rose

Tubes are a favourite of northern anglers and for good reason – they catch a lot of fish. Dragged on the bottom or pitched into shallow weeds, the tube is very versatile.  

Tube jigs are amazing at catching smallmouth and largemouth
in the autumn. 

Fall triggers a migration for bass from summer shallows to deeper water. Anglers who follow them will be able to benefit when bass school on predictable pieces of structure. One of the best presentations for catching bass during this calendar period is a tube. Regardless if bass are munching on craws or minnows, there is a colour scheme that will match the local prey perfectly.

Key Factors:

• Water depth
• Jighead size
• Hook quality
• Colours

 The most versatile open water method of rigging a tube is slipping an exposed jighead into the hollow cavity. Spinning gear is most ideal but baitcast loves don’t have to sulk as long as they scale down and lighten up on gear and line choice. A selection of jig weights from 1/8oz to 5/8oz will work everywhere regardless of wind speed and water depth. Don’t cheap out when shopping for jigs. Search for extra sharp hooks with good wire. You won’t recall how much you saved when a monster bass pulls free. 

Most baits are 3” or 4” and that is fine. Name brand tubes have salt or scent or both. The real key is to have a large selection of colours. Bass can ignore one colour and gobble up another. Rotated between proven colours and don’t be stubborn to change.

Many pros favour a rattle on the jighead. Finding jigs with one can be difficult but a bag of rattles and some heat shrink tubing can convert any jighead quickly.  Worrying about the details can be madding but it is usually better to rotate between spots than trying to force feed fall bass.