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Josh Jones Fishing Techniques to Land Massive Bass

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Ever wondered how Josh Jones is able to find and catch so many big, trophy-sized bass? Well, look no further than. With his innovative techniques and pioneering use of advanced technologies, Jones has set the fishing world alight, making waves with his impressive catches and successful clients.

From utilizing Garmin LiveScope sonar technology to target suspended bass to winning the American Crappie Trail national championship, Josh Jones Fishing’s approach is a masterclass in innovation and perseverance. Ready to delve into the waters and discover the secrets of Jones’ success? Let’s cast off on this fishing adventure together.

The Josh Jones Approach

Josh Jones Anyone Can Become An iKon

Josh Jones isn’t just an angler; he’s a fishing maestro. His signature approach combines a deep understanding of fish behavior with the innovative use of live sonar technology to locate and target trophy bass. Whether he’s on a boat in the middle of the lake or guiding clients through their fishing journey, Jones’ expertise and strategies have turned many a fishing trip into a story of triumph.

His techniques are not just for the pros, though. Jones has successfully trained both pro anglers from the FLW and Bassmaster Elite Series, and everyday fishing enthusiasts, sharing his deep knowledge and cutting-edge strategies. His website, loaded with fishing wisdom, offers essential resources for an improved user experience, simplifying the learning process from the master himself.

Live Sonar Mastery

A significant aspect of Jones’ fishing expertise is his proficiency in using live sonar technology. Live sonar lets you see underwater in real-time, making it easier to locate and track fish movements. Jones’ ability to leverage this technology has given him a significant edge in the fishing world, allowing him to spot and target bass with an accuracy that few can match.

Utilizing a sensitive transducer, the Garmin LiveScope sonar offers the following features:

  • Emits high-frequency sound waves
  • Creates live images of fish surrounding the boat
  • Tracks fish movement in real time
  • Provides a clear 360-degree view underwater
  • Enables users to see how fish react to lures and bait

This technology, along with similar technologies, has undoubtedly improved the remarkable clients catch rate of Jones’ clients, thanks to the integration of meta products and payment services.

Focus on Suspended Bass

Suspended bass in open water
Illustration of suspended bass in open water

Jones’ strategy isn’t just about using the right tech; it’s also about targeting the right fish. Suspended bass, those that hang around bridge pilings, are his fish of choice. Using techniques like:

  • split shotting
  • rip baits
  • Senkos
  • drop-shots
  • the A-Rig

Jones has perfected the art of reeling in these elusive creatures.

His preferred bait for suspended bass is the 9.5-inch 6th Sense Divine Magnum Shakey Worm. Recognized as a meta product in the fishing industry, it’s known for its effectiveness in attracting big bass. However, choosing the bait is merely the beginning. Jones employs a range of strategies to hook suspended bass, including scouting for large clusters of baitfish or regions with flowing water. It’s this combination of innovative techniques and keen observation that makes Jones’ approach so successful.

Top Baits for Big Fish

Josh Jones Anyone Can Become An iKon

Much like a chef picks the finest ingredients for his signature dish, Jones carefully selects his baits for hooking giant bass. His preferences?

However, it’s not just about the bait selection; the presentation also matters. Jones uses a technique that involves:

  • reeling in the bait
  • pausing
  • giving quick snaps to make it glide to the side
  • using the reel handle to make it cut and glide to the other side

This lifelike movement of the bait, coupled with a slow and steady retrieve, is what makes it irresistible to those big bass.

Cable guy, what four years ago? And now I get to travel the country catching fish

Josh Jones

The Power of the Big Worm

Jones’ arsenal of baits for big fish isn’t complete without the big worm, especially the 9.5-inch 6th Sense Divine Magnum Shakey Worm. This bait’s large size, slow descent, and natural action make it especially appealing to big bass, enticing them to strike.

To enhance the worm’s performance, Jones suggests using a Texas rig to prevent snagging. Casting it near where the bass like to hang out, letting it sink, and then giving it a gentle shake and drag often does the trick. The key is to adjust the approach based on how fish are responding and to play around with different colors.

Crappie Fishing: A Championship-Winning Passion

Josh Jones and Jimmy Houston Crappie Fishing
Josh Jones and Jimmy Houston Crappie Fishing

While Jones is celebrated for his bass fishing expertise, his enthusiasm for crappie fishing is equally remarkable. A testament to this passion is his win in the American Crappie Trail national championship, a competitive tournament that brings together top anglers to compete on renowned lakes.

Josh’s victory in the tournament wasn’t just a stroke of luck; it was the result of careful planning, smart tactics, and a deep understanding of fish behavior. Jones and his partner, Reynolds, kicked off the tournament by catching big fish right from the start, and they kept upgrading their catch throughout the event, securing their victory.

Tournament Tactics

Winning a national championship is no small feat, and it requires a well-thought-out strategy. Jones and Reynolds used a combination of tactics, including:

  • Making good use of forward-facing sonar tech
  • Working together as a team
  • Positioning themselves strategically
  • Controlling the boat
  • Being able to adjust to different conditions and techniques

These tactics helped them secure the championship.

Their tactics involved:

  • Fishing along the timber and channel edges in water depths ranging from 9 to 15 feet
  • Using a 1/8 ounce orange jig head
  • Having a specific technique for catching crappie in tournaments

This strategic approach to information manage contributed significantly to their success.

Balancing Family Time and Fishing

While Jones is a passionate and dedicated angler, he also values family time. He ensures a balance between his fishing career and time spent with his loved ones. Jones involves his family in crappie fishing by taking them along on fishing trips and showing them the ropes. This shared experience allows him to pass on his passion for fishing to his loved ones and creates memorable family moments.

In addition to fishing, Jones enjoys other outdoor activities with his family such as hiking, wild turkey hunting, and morel mushroom hunting. These activities create a well-rounded outdoor experience for his family and offer a refreshing break from the fishing routine.

Client Success Stories

Unsurprisingly, Jones’ clients have achieved significant success under his mentorship. From reeling in trophy bass to improving their fishing skills, Jones’ clients have seen remarkable results. Some of these success stories include:

  • Catching a 10-pound bass
  • Winning a local fishing tournament
  • Improving their casting distance by 20 yards
  • Landing their first fish on a fly rod

These success stories have even gone viral on social media, further showcasing the effectiveness of Jones’ techniques.

These remarkable catches are not simply down to luck; they are the product of Jones’ precise mentoring and sophisticated techniques. From mastering pinpoint casting to keenly observing both bait and fish in the water, Jones’ clients have significantly improved their fishing skills and catch rates.

Pro Anglers and Avid Fishermen

Jones’ clients, from professional anglers to keen fishermen, have all profited from his expertise. With Jones’ guidance, they’ve caught some big bass, some chasing the bait for 20 feet before striking. They’ve also pulled in multiple double digit bass catches over 8 pounds in one trip, with some bass weighing up to 13 pounds.

These impressive catches are not just stories; they’ve had a significant impact on the fishing industry. With some of his clients catching bass over 10 pounds, Jones has become a big name in the fishing community. His techniques and the success of his clients have made him a sought-after guide for those looking to improve their fishing game.

Viral Social Media Moments

Jimmy Houston and Josh Jones

Jones’ impressive catches and those of his clients have caught the attention of the online world, going viral on social media. His 13.2-pound bass catch at Lake O.H. Ivie, for instance, received widespread praise and admiration from the online fishing community.

In addition to this, Jones’ videos showcasing his fishing skills and impressive catches have garnered significant attention on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. These viral moments have not only showcased Jones’ expertise but have also sparked increased interest in his techniques and approach to fishing.

Essential Gear for Catching Giant Bass

Selecting the appropriate gear is key to successfully catching giant bass. Jones recommends selecting the right rods, reels, and line to maximize success when using his recommended baits and techniques.

The appropriate gear can notably enhance your fishing experience, from casting to hauling in your catch. It can also enhance the effectiveness of your baits and techniques, giving you an edge in catching those trophy bass.

Rods and Reels

Jones has a few preferred choices when it comes to rods and reels. For big worm fishing, he recommends the Dobyns Xtasy 755 or the Fury 735 rod. Both these rods are lightweight, sensitive, and balanced, providing the power needed for effective big worm fishing.

For glide bait fishing, Jones suggests reels like the Calcutta 400 or Abu 4600 C4. These reels excel at casting smooth and far, offering better control over the bait movement and generating more inertia for longer glides. These features make them ideal for glide bait fishing.

Line Selection

Choosing the right line is another key factor to successful fishing. Different line types can significantly influence your bait’s performance and your ability to feel a bass’s bite. Jones recommends the 20-pound P-Line CXX line for fishing around thick cover with big worms.

This line is strong, resistant to abrasion, has low memory, increased sensitivity, and decreased visibility, making it particularly effective for bass fishing. The right line can give your bait the best performance and help you detect bites more effectively, significantly increasing your chances of reeling in a big one.

Bass Boat for 2023 & 2024

In 2023 and 2024 Josh Jones uses an iKon Boats LX21 bass boat.

Summary

From his innovative use of live sonar technology to his strategic approach to targeting suspended bass, Josh Jones has transformed the game of bass fishing. His expertise and unique techniques have not only led him to win championships but have also helped countless clients improve their fishing skills and reel in trophy bass.

Whether you’re a pro angler looking to up your game or a fishing enthusiast hoping to learn from the best, the wisdom, techniques, and passion that Josh Jones brings to the table are truly inspiring. So why not take a page out of Jones’ book and try his techniques on your next fishing adventure? Who knows, you might just reel in the catch of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions

What bass boat does Josh Jones use?

In 2023 and 2024 Josh Jones uses an iKon Boats LX21 bass boat.

What makes Josh Jones’ fishing approach unique?

Josh Jones’ fishing approach is unique because he combines his knowledge of fish behavior with live sonar technology to target trophy bass, leading to impressive catches and helping others improve their fishing skills.

What are some of the top baits recommended by Josh Jones for catching big fish?

Josh Jones suggests using glide baits and big worms for anglers looking to land some trophy-sized bass.

How does Josh Jones balance his passion for fishing with family time?

Josh Jones finds the perfect balance between his passion for fishing and spending quality time with his family. He takes his loved ones on trips with him to share his love of crappie fishing and show them the ropes.

What are the essential gear items for catching giant bass, according to Josh Jones?

For catching giant bass, Josh Jones recommends choosing the best rods, reels, and line, as well as selecting the appropriate baits and techniques.

iKon Boats Unveils Personalization Packages for Bass Boats

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Madisonville, TN – iKon Boats, a subsidiary of East Tennessee’s prestigious HCB Yachts, headquartered in the heart of the boating world, Madisonville, TN, announces a groundbreaking offering in the boating industry: Factory Direct Boat Personalization Packages. This innovative service is not just a step but a giant leap in customizing bass boats, allowing customers unprecedented freedom to infuse their personal style into their vessels.

Customization Redefined: A New Era for Bass Boat Enthusiasts

iKon Boats, leveraging the sophisticated yacht engineering and technology of HCB Yachts, introduces a customization package for their LX20 and LX21 that is set to redefine the standards in the boating market. The personalization process is not merely an add-on; it’s an immersive experience, crafted to reflect the individuality of each angler. 

The package includes:

  • Custom Deck & Hull Side Color: Choose from an extensive palette to match your unique style.
  • Custom Bolt Color: A subtle yet impactful detail, ensuring every inch of the boat reflects your personal touch.
  • Custom Seat & Dash Hood Accent Color: Elevate the interior with colors that speak to your aesthetic.
  • Black Carpet: A classic touch that adds a sleek, sophisticated look to the boat’s interior.
  • Custom Cockpit Flooring: Tailor your boat’s flooring for comfort and style, making every journey a luxurious experience.
  • Hydro-Dipped Seat Backs: A fusion of technology and artistry, providing durability and design elegance.
  • Headrest Embroidery: Personalize with your own logo or design, a signature touch that’s uniquely yours.
  • Engine Decals: Customize the heart of your boat with bespoke engine decals.
  • Custom Trailer Color: Extend your personalization beyond the boat, making a statement even when on the move.

Strategic Partnerships: Merging Expertise with Innovation

In an effort to integrate top-notch angling intelligence with its engineering prowess, iKon Boats has partnered with Brent Butler, a product expert and professional angler, and two-time Angler of the Year, Jacob Wheeler. This collaboration ensures that each boat is not just a vessel, but a tool optimized for the ultimate fishing experience.

About iKon Boats

iKon Boats, LLC, a subsidiary of HCB Yachts, operates with a mission to blend yacht-quality engineering with the practical needs and insights of seasoned anglers. The company’s location in Madisonville, TN, near its parent company HCB Yachts in Vonore, TN, situates it at the nexus of boating innovation and tradition.

Elevating the Bass Boat Experience

With this personalized approach, iKon Boats is not just selling a product; they are crafting an experience, an extension of the angler’s personality and passion for the sport. This customization package is a testament to iKon Boats’ commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Embark on a Journey of Personalization

The launch of these personalization packages marks a new chapter in the boating industry, where customers are not just purchasing a boat; they are co-creating a masterpiece. iKon Boats invites all bass boat enthusiasts to explore these new horizons of personalization and to experience the unparalleled joy of owning a boat that is truly their own.

For more information about iKon Boats visit ikonboats.com
Full customization boat builder at https://ikonboats.com/boat-builder/

iKon Boats: Where Innovation Meets Personalization

Discover the future of bass boating with iKon Boats – where every detail is a reflection of your passion for the sport and your personal style. Join us in this exciting new era of personalized boating.

Aaron Yavorsky: Youngest Ever To Qualify For The Bassmaster Classic

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Highlights

  • Aaron Yavorsky, at 17, becomes the youngest angler to qualify for the 2024 Bassmaster Classic in Tulsa, Oklahoma..
  • Aaron Yavorsky Wins Phoenix Boats Big Bass with a remarkable 8lb 15oz largemouth bass.
  • Aaron and Rodney Father Son Team Win The 2023 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship

LEESBURG, Fla.December 9, 2023 – B.A.S.S., a leader in the bass fishing industry, is thrilled to announce the historic achievement of Aaron Yavorsky, the youngest angler ever to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic. This remarkable feat not only highlights the prodigious talent of Yavorsky but also underscores B.A.S.S.’s commitment to fostering young talent in the competitive fishing sector.

In an industry where experience is often synonymous with success, Aaron Yavorsky’s journey shatters preconceived notions. His victory at the 2023 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship, alongside his father, and his triumph in the Phoenix Boats Big Bass, exemplify the spirit of innovation and excellence that B.A.S.S. stands for.

A New Era in Bass Fishing

The story of Aaron Yavorsky is not just about a record-breaking catch; it’s about the emergence of a new generation in bass fishing. His journey to the 2024 Bassmaster Classic, set to be held in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Grand Lake ‘O the Cherokees from March 22–24, is a testament to the evolving landscape of the sport.

B.A.S.S. has always been at the forefront of promoting competitive bass fishing, offering platforms for anglers of all ages to showcase their skills. With Yavorsky’s entry into the Bassmaster Classic, the organization reaffirms its commitment to nurturing young talent and expanding the sport’s appeal to a younger demographic.

Aaron’s achievement is characterized by several key milestones:

  • Youngest Angler to Qualify: At 17, he sets a new standard for young anglers aspiring to reach the pinnacle of bass fishing.
  • Team Championship Victory: Winning alongside his father, he demonstrates the importance of mentorship and family in the sport.
  • Phoenix Boats Big Bass Winner: His 8lb 15oz largemouth bass catch is a showcase of skill and determination.

“Aaron Yavorsky’s success is a beacon of inspiration for young anglers everywhere,” said a B.A.S.S. spokesperson. “His journey to the Bassmaster Classic is a story of passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. We are proud to have him as part of the B.A.S.S. family and excited to see him compete at the highest level.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Aaron’s story is more than just a personal triumph; it’s a narrative that resonates with young anglers across the globe. His journey from a high school senior in Palm Harbor, Florida, to a record-setting angler on the national stage, highlights the opportunities that B.A.S.S. provides to aspiring fishermen.

A Milestone for Competitive Fishing

This achievement is not just a personal milestone for Yavorsky but a significant moment for the sport of bass fishing. It demonstrates the growing diversity and youthfulness of the sport, encouraging more young people to take up fishing as a competitive and recreational activity.

B.A.S.S.’s commitment to promoting competitive bass fishing at all levels ensures that stories like Aaron’s become a source of inspiration for future generations. The organization’s focus on youth development, environmental stewardship, and community involvement continues to elevate the sport, making it accessible and appealing to a broader audience.

Looking Ahead to the Bassmaster Classic

As the fishing community anticipates Aaron Yavorsky’s participation in the 2024 Bassmaster Classic, his presence symbolizes a new era in the sport. His journey to this prestigious tournament is not just about competing at the highest level; it’s about inspiring a new wave of young anglers to follow in his footsteps.

Aaron states “Its something you always dream of and I don’t think its really sunk in yet.”

With total weight of 48lbs – 4oz, Yavorsky had a dominant performance with 22.375 lb lead over 2nd place to win a spot at the Classic

B.A.S.S. invites everyone to witness this historic event and support Aaron as he competes against the best in the world. His participation in the Bassmaster Classic is a celebration of youthful talent, determination, and the spirit of competitive fishing.

About B.A.S.S. B.A.S.S. is a leading bass fishing organization dedicated to promoting the sport and supporting anglers of all ages and skill levels. With a commitment to conservation, youth development, and community involvement, B.A.S.S. continues to elevate the sport of bass fishing, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

For press inquiries, please contact:
Jason George
Outdoor Writer
Guide Fishing
[email protected]
https://guidefishing.com
FB & IG: @cpfjason

The Ultimate Bass Fishing Guide To Flipping, Pitching & Punching

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Flipping, pitching, and punching are three techniques used in bass fishing to present bait to fish in specific locations or conditions.

Flipping involves using a short, heavy rod and a baitcasting reel to flip the bait under or into cover, such as weeds, brush, or docks.

Pitching is similar to flipping, but it involves a longer rod and a baitcasting or spinning reel, and is used to present the bait more accurately and softly to fish in tight cover.

Chuck Pippin Flipping A Creature Bait To Catch A Bass
Chuck Pippin Catches A 4lb Bass Flipping A Creature Bait Into Heavy Vegetation.

Punching involves using a heavy rod, a baitcasting reel, and a punching rig, which consists of a weighted hook and a large, soft plastic bait, to fish in heavy cover and vegetation. The weight of the rig allows the angler to punch through the cover and present the bait to the fish.

How To Flip, Pitch & Punch With Precision

Pitching shallow cover

Fish The Moment: How to Pitch a Fishing Lure

Rod, Reel, & Line Considerations

First, let’s talk about rods. When it comes to flipping and pitching, you want a rod with a fast or extra-fast action. This means that the tip of the rod is more sensitive and responsive, allowing you to feel the bait and detect bites more easily. You also want a rod with a medium to heavy power rating, which will give you the strength and leverage you need to set the hook and fight the fish.

Next, let’s consider reels. For flipping and pitching, you want a reel with a smooth and reliable drag system. This will allow you to apply the right amount of pressure to the fish as you’re reeling it in. A baitcasting reel is typically a good choice for flipping and pitching, as it allows for more precise casting and better control over the line.

Finally, let’s discuss line selection. When flipping and pitching, you want a braided line with a low diameter and high sensitivity. Braided line is more durable and abrasion-resistant than monofilament line, making it a good choice for fishing in heavy cover. A low-diameter line will allow you to make longer and more accurate casts, while a high-sensitivity line will help you feel the bottom and detect bites more easily.

Best Fishing Line

Spending over 20 years fishing Florida’s treacherous grassy lakes from Okeechobee, Lake Istokpoga, Fellsmere Reservoir Headwaters Lake, Kissimmee Chain, Harris Chain, Lake Rousseau, St Johns River, Lake Iamonia, Lake Talquin and more.

Often, choosing the best line for punching and flipping comes down to the amount of vegetation you are fishing and the water clarity. When flipping or pitching into stained or dingy water with lots of submerged hydrilla, I opt for braided fishing line.

If the water is clear and the vegetation is scarce or I am pitching under a dock, Ill opt for fluorocarbon fishing line.

I have fished with more than 30 different braided lines over my life. By far the best braid on the market today is NINEX Braid by CPF Lures.

Ninex Braid by CPF Lures

CPF Lures developed a no fade black braid using nine strands of ExtremeTuf fibers. The braid is carrier wrapped for outstanding casting distance and abrasion resistance. This is the best line diameter to strength rating I have ever fished. What makes this this best braided fishing line on the market today?

NINEX No Fade Black Braid. 45lb Test by CPF Lures
NINEX No Fade Black Braid. 45lb Test by CPF Lures
NINEX No Fade Black Braid. 65lb Test by CPF Lures
NINEX No Fade Black Braid. 65lb Test by CPF Lures

There are a few things that sets NINEX apart from every other braid on the market.

  1. It Never Fades. The No Fade Black does exactly what it should. It keeps it’s color. Most of the best fishing guides in Florida use NINEX braid. As Captain Eric Tilson says, “I’ve had the braid on my reels on the deck of my boat for 3 years and its still black”
  2. The Slinder Coating. The Slinder Coating allows for increased knot strength without slippage. Additionally, the coating creates a UV & water protection that prevents swelling.
  3. Reverse Spiral Engineering. NINEX is reverse wound so there are no gaps between the wraps! This means less breaks, less friction, less drag, and less noise through the rod guides than any other braided fishing line.
  4. It’s Super Quiet. Like stated above, the braid is smooth as silk and very quiet when running through the rod guides.

Seguar InvizX & Flipping Fluorocarbon

When flipping light cover, docks, laydowns or clear water, I opt for Seguar InvizX Flourocarbon Line. With a large line selection (4lb to 25lb), Seguar provides a wide range of options. Specially designed to dominate freshwater, InvisX is virtually invisible to fish.

Seaguar INVIZX Fluorocarbon Fishing Line

Best Lures for Flipping Laydowns, Brush, Docks & Other Vegetation

Flipping brush, docks, and other vegetation can be an effective technique for catching largemouth bass and other species of fish. It involves casting a bait or lure into dense cover and “flipping” it into the cover to entice a bite.

Choosing the right lure for flipping can make a big difference in your success on the water. Here are some of the best lures for flipping brush, docks, and other vegetation:

Flipping Jigs

Jigs are versatile lures that can be used for flipping, pitching, or casting. They feature a lead or tungsten head with a hook and weed guard attached. Flipping jigs can be fished with or without a trailer.

Jigs work well in thick cover because they can be flipped or pitched into the cover, and the heavy head helps them fall through the brush and reach the fish. Things to consider when choosing a flipping jig is the fall rate and the type of cover.

For a slow fall rate you can choose a lighter weight and add a trailer to your jig.

My favorite flipping jigs are going to have tungsten heads. The low profile means

1/2 oz Stealth Feider Tungsten Flipping Jig - MONEY CRAW
Stealth Feider Tungsten Flipping Jig – MONEY CRAW
Stealth Feider Tungsten Flipping Jig - MONEY CRAW
Stealth Feider Tungsten Flipping Jig – MONEY CRAW
Stealth Feider Tungsten Flipping Jig - MONEY CRAW
Stealth Feider Tungsten Flipping Jig – MONEY CRAW

Bladed Jigs

Bladed jigs, also known as chatterbaits, are an effective lure for flipping brush, docks, and other vegetation. They feature a jig head with a bladed body that creates a unique “chattering” action when retrieved, which can attract fish from a distance.

Bladed jigs are effective for flipping because they can be fished slowly or more aggressively, and the bladed body helps them cut through the cover and reach the fish. Some popular bladed jigs for flipping include the Z-Man ChatterBait Elite, Strike King Thunder Cricket, and Berkley Slobberknocker.

Overall, I like Z-Man’s line of bladded jigs. The original

Z-Man Z-Man Evergreen Chatterbait Jack Hammer Stealth Blade in Bhite Delight
Z-Man Z-Man Evergreen Chatterbait Jack Hammer Stealth Blade in Bhite Delight
Z-Man Original Chatterbait in White Chartreuse
Z-Man Original Chatterbait in White Chartreuse
Z-Man Evergreen Chatterbait Jack Hammer in Blueback Herring
Z-Man Evergreen Chatterbait Jack Hammer in Blueback Herring

Swimming Jigs

Stick Baits

Stick baits, also known as Senkos, are one of the most popular lures among bass fishermen. The reason is soft plastic stick baits are versatile and effective. These soft plastic lures are designed to mimic the movement of a wounded or dying baitfish, making them irresistible to bass.

When flipping fluke baits, it’s also important to pay attention to the type of cover you’re fishing. Different types of cover require different approaches.

When flipping stick baits I prefer four different presentations. The presentation depends on a few factors including the type of bass I am fishing for. :

  1. Wacky rig
  2. Neko
  3. Texas Rigged
  4. Shaky Head

If I am fishing hydrilla, Kissimmee grass lines or other heavy vegetation I will opt for a Texas rigged stick bait.

For docks and laydowns I prefer to wacky rig my stick bait to mimic a dying baitfish. If I am fishing deeper structure or shell bottom I will opt for shaky heads or the Neko rig. Using this presentation, the tail of the Senko will float above the weighted end.

Yamamota Baits 5" Senko
Yamamota Baits 5″ Senko
Texas Rigged Stickler By CPF Lures
CPF Lures 5.5″ Stickler Pro

Flukes & Other Soft Plastic Jerk Baits

Fluke baits, also known as soft plastic jerkbaits, are a popular lure among bass fishermen because of their lifelike action and versatility. These lures are designed to mimic the movement of a wounded baitfish, making them irresistible to bass.

Creature & Craw Baits

The best creature or craw for flipping varies depending on the situation, but some popular choices include Missile Baits 4.5” D Bomb 25-Count Lures, Beaver style baits, Zoom Speed Craw, and Flappin’ Hog Creature Bait.

Best Lures for Pitching Laydowns, Brush, Docks & Other Vegetation

A new player in the pitch and punch category, the P&P Reaper Pro has been an big bass killer. CPF Lures 5″ Punch & Pitch Reaper (P&P Reaper), the ultimate weapon in your angling arsenal! This hybrid creature and crawfish soft plastic bait is designed to help you conquer even the toughest freshwater environments and catch more largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and spotted bass than ever before.

How to Punch Heavy Vegetation

Punching heavy vegetation, such as mats, hyacinths, lily pads and hydrilla, can be an effective technique for catching largemouth bass and other species of fish.

It involves using a heavy bait or lure and a specialized rig to “punch” through the dense vegetation and reach the fish. Here are some tips for punching heavy vegetation for bass:

MikeyBalzz Teaches Epic Punching Technique Including How To, What To Look For, And Best Bait & Tackle Selections

Best Lures for Punching Heavy Vegetation

Punchrigs have been shown for their ability to repel weeds. The rig is constructed using heavy slasher rigs and a stout heavy-grained flipper rig. Typically the weight is attached to hooks right under the plastic beads. Generally, punching or turning weights can reach 1/2-1/2 ounces. Heavy weight must provide enough weight to cut over heavy vegetation.

Best Knots For Flipping, Pitching & Punching.

Fishing in heavy cover creates a situation unlike any other in fishing. Your line is constantly rubbing and dragging across submerged vegetation, docks and stumps. This is why the knot choice is crucial. You do not want a weak point in your line.

Snell Knot

A snell knot is a strong and reliable knot that is commonly used for attaching hooks to fishing line. It is especially useful for tying hooks with long shanks, such as live bait hooks, because it allows the hook to hang straight and gives the bait a natural presentation. Here’s how to tie a snell knot:

Jacob Wheeler Teaches How To Tie The Snell Knot

List of B.A.S.S. Open Changes For 2024

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What are the changes that bassmaster is making for the 2024 Open Season

Here are the changes that B.A.S.S. is making for the year 2024:

  1. Live Coverage: All nine 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series tournaments will feature live coverage.
  2. Increased Payouts: Anglers will compete for increased payouts. Based on a full field of 225 anglers in the pro division, the payout for each Opens event will total more than $332,500. The prize payouts for every tournament will also increase, with the top 45 anglers — one in five competitors — in each event earning a check.
  3. Angler of the Year Purse: There will be a new Angler of the Year purse of $110,000, which includes an increased first-place cash prize of $45,000.
  4. Expanded Coverage: Live coverage from all nine Bassmaster Opens will be streamed on Bassmaster.com, with expanded coverage for the 2024 season on FS1, FS2, Tubi, and the Fox Sports digital platforms. This will allow fishing fans to follow the competition closely.
  5. Bassmaster Opens Elite Qualifiers Division: Anglers in this division will be competing for the combined Angler of the Year purse. The EQ Division designation goes to those anglers who are competing in all nine St. Croix Bassmaster Opens and is the only path to earning an Elite Series invitation through the Opens.
  6. Increased Attention to Opens EQ Format: The new Opens EQ format was well-received last season, and with the new changes, B.A.S.S. expects the Opens to be even more popular.

These changes highlight B.A.S.S.’s commitment to serving the bass fishing community and providing the best possible platform for anglers.

For more information visit bassmaster.com

What are the changes that B.A.S.S. is making for the 2024 Open Season

the changes B.A.S.S. are making include: increased coverage, increased payouts, new angler of the year purse, expanded coverage, Elite qualifier division, and more attention to Opens EQ format
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