BlueFox vibrax spinners work well near downed trees in 3 to 5 feet of water. However, one of the best lures that works with every bass is the Carolina rigged worms.

 

Depending on shore angle and depth, run a split shot about 16 inches up the line with a size 2/0 straight-shanked worm hook to allow some suspension inches off the bottom.

 

Another successful technique is using a Texas rigged worm consisting of a 3/16 ounce bullet weight, a 1/0 offset shank worm hook and a small chartreuse colored plastic or glass bead between the weight and the hook.

 

The use of the bead protects the knot from being abused and makes a clicking noise, which attracts bass. You shouldn’t need any more than an 8 pound test line for spotted bass if you want any challenge at all.

Rods

A good solid rod for catching Spotted Bass, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass is the Daiwa Cielo freshwater casting rod. The VIP Smallmouth is another good rod for spotted bass.

 

Each rod is strong enough and flexible for the largest largemouth bass. It also offers a lightweight rod that is strong enough for hours of casting heavy crankbaits.

Baitcasting Reel

Daiwa is not the only rod and reel company out there. Sage and Abu Garcia are among many good tackle makers. The key to a good rod and reel combination is picking the right reel and rod for a particular fish.

 

A heavy ultra strong rod and reel with 20 pound test line is heavy and far beyond what you’ll need for the Spotted Bass. Also, too strong a rod and reel, the less sensitivity in detecting smaller fish strikes.

Casting

Fish on long tapering points and on steep rock banks. Keep your boat to water that is about 30 feet deep. Cast your lure to the bank and slowly reel it back. Presentation is everything so be sure to present the lure or bait in a realistic manner.

 

Keep the bait down on bottom so that you feel the bait bumping the rocks and brush all the way back to the boat. Reel at a steady rate, but if you lose contact with the bottom, stop reeling for a second or two.