In the video “How to Fish Crankbaits in Weeds with Seth Feider,” pro bass angler Seth Feider shares his expertise on fishing crankbaits in weedy areas for summer bass. He explains that crankbaits can mimic bluegills, making them effective in fisheries rich in bluegills and other panfish. Feider emphasizes the importance of matching the running depth of the crankbaits to the height of the grass and using colors that resemble bluegills. He also discusses the differences between grass cranking retrieves and traditional hard-bottom cranking, highlighting the need for a slower retrieve and adjusting the rod angle to prevent the bait from getting caught in the weeds. Feider recommends using buoyant and tighter wiggling balsa crankbaits, such as Rapala DT Series, to prevent grass entanglement. In addition, he advises using a heavier power glass rod, fast reel, and strong fluorocarbon line to ensure the treble hooks stay secure and the fish remain clear from the cover.
Feider’s approach focuses on maintaining a consistent running depth for the bait and employing a methodical reeling and stopping technique, similar to fishing with a Carolina rig. He points out that crankbaits are a great option for fishing around coontail grass. The video emphasizes the importance of matching the size and depth of the crankbait to the conditions and using precise casting with the help of electronics. Overall, Feider provides valuable insights into effectively fishing crankbaits in weedy areas, allowing anglers to trigger reaction strikes while navigating the grass patches with finesse.
Understanding the Basics of Fishing Crankbaits
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If you’re new to fishing with crankbaits or just wanting to improve your skills, it’s important to have a good understanding of the basics. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the ins and outs of fishing crankbaits, with a focus on pro bass angler Seth Feider’s techniques for fishing crankbaits in weeds for summer bass. So, let’s dive in and explore this exciting and effective fishing technique!
Who is Seth Feider
Before we dive into the specifics of fishing crankbaits, let’s first get acquainted with the angler who will be guiding us through this journey – Seth Feider. Seth Feider is a professional bass angler who has made a name for himself in the fishing industry. With his experience and expertise, Seth is the perfect person to learn from when it comes to fishing crankbaits in weeds for summer bass.
What are Crankbaits
Now, let’s talk about what crankbaits are and why they are such a popular choice among anglers. Crankbaits are a type of fishing lure that imitate the movements and appearance of baitfish or other prey species. They are typically made of hard plastic and feature a diving lip or bill that causes the lure to dive underwater when retrieved.
Crankbaits come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, allowing anglers to match their presentation to the specific conditions and target species they are fishing for. They are highly effective at attracting predatory fish, as their realistic motion and appearance trigger the predatory instincts of fish, enticing them to strike.
Benefits of Crankbaits as Bluegill Imitators
One of the reasons why crankbaits are so successful is their ability to imitate the movements and appearance of bluegills and other panfish. In fisheries abundant in bluegills and panfish, using crankbaits as bluegill imitators can lead to great success.
Bluegills are a common forage species for many predator fish, including bass. By using crankbaits that resemble bluegills in color and movement, anglers can trigger predator fish to strike, as they mistake the lure for a real bluegill. This technique can be particularly effective in waters with bluegill populations and when targeting bass.
Ideal Conditions for Crankbait Fishing
Now that we have a good understanding of what crankbaits are and their potential as bluegill imitators, let’s talk about the ideal conditions for crankbait fishing. Like any fishing technique, the success of crankbait fishing relies on various factors, including weather conditions, water conditions, and the behavior of the fish.
Generally, warmer water temperatures are ideal for crankbait fishing, as this is when fish are more active and actively feeding. Additionally, fishing during low light conditions, such as early morning or late evening, can increase your chances of success, as fish are more likely to be actively feeding during these times.
It’s also important to consider the water clarity and cover when fishing with crankbaits. Clear water often requires more natural and subtle color choices, while stained or muddy water can benefit from brighter and more attention-grabbing colors. As for cover, fishing around weed beds and submerged vegetation can be highly productive when using crankbaits, as these lures can effectively navigate through the vegetation without getting snagged.
With the basics covered, let’s move on to more specific techniques and strategies for successful crankbait fishing.
Matching Crankbaits to the Running Depth and Grass Height
In order to increase your chances of success with crankbaits, it’s important to match the running depth of your lure to the height of the grass or vegetation in the water. This will ensure that your lure is at the right level to attract and entice fish.
How to Determine the Running Depth
Determining the running depth of a crankbait can be done by examining the diving lip or bill of the lure. Crankbaits are often labeled with the recommended diving depth range, which will give you an idea of how deep the lure will dive when retrieved. However, it’s important to note that the running depth can vary depending on factors such as lure weight, line thickness, and retrieval speed.
To get a more accurate idea of the running depth, you can experiment with different retrieval speeds and observe the depth at which the lure runs. This trial and error approach will help you fine-tune your technique and determine the best speed for the desired running depth.
Choosing the Right Color Crankbaits
When it comes to choosing the color of your crankbaits, it’s important to consider the water clarity and the prey species you are trying to imitate. In clear water, more natural and subtle color patterns tend to work best, as fish have a clear view of their surroundings. On the other hand, in stained or muddy water, brighter and more contrasting colors can help the lure stand out and attract fish.
When imitating bluegills and panfish, colors such as chartreuse and blue can be particularly effective. These colors closely resemble the natural coloration of bluegills and can trigger the predatory instincts of fish.
Experimenting with different colors and patterns is key to finding the right combination that works best in your fishing location and conditions. Keep in mind that sometimes fish can be finicky, so it’s always a good idea to have a variety of colors on hand to test out.
Matching Crankbait Depth to Grass Height
In order to fish effectively around grass and vegetation, it’s important to match the running depth of your crankbait to the height of the grass. This will ensure that your lure stays above the grass and doesn’t get snagged.
If the grass is shorter or more sparse, you can use a crankbait that runs at a shallower depth. On the other hand, if the grass is thick and dense, opt for a crankbait that runs at a deeper depth to keep it above the vegetation.
Matching your lure depth to the grass height is crucial for maintaining a clean and effective presentation. This will increase your chances of enticing strikes from fish lurking in and around the grass.
Perfecting Crankbait Retrieval in Grass
Fishing with crankbaits in grass or vegetation requires a slightly different approach compared to fishing in hard-bottom areas. Adjusting your retrieval speed and rod angle can make a big difference in effectively fishing through grass and avoiding snags.
How Grass Cranking Differs from Hard-bottom Cranking
When fishing in hard-bottom areas, such as gravel or rock, a common technique is to retrieve the crankbait at a fast pace. This fast retrieval speed allows the lure to create a disturbance and generate reaction strikes from fish.
However, when fishing in grass or vegetation, a slower retrieval speed is often more effective. This slower pace allows the crankbait to navigate through the grass without getting buried in it. By slowing down your retrieve, the lure has a better chance of staying above the grass and maintaining its enticing motion.
Ideal Retrieval Speed
The ideal retrieval speed for fishing crankbaits in grass can vary depending on the specific conditions and the behavior of the fish. As a general rule, it’s best to start with a slow to medium retrieve speed and adjust accordingly based on the fish’s response.
By paying attention to the fish’s behavior and strikes, you can determine if they prefer a faster or slower retrieve. Experimenting with different speeds and observing the fish’s reactions will help you find the perfect retrieval speed for the given conditions.
Rod Angle Adjustments
In addition to adjusting your retrieval speed, making rod angle adjustments can also help you effectively fish crankbaits in grass. By angling your rod slightly upward during the retrieve, you can help keep your lure above the grass and vegetation.
The upward rod angle allows the crankbait to glide over the grass without getting caught or buried. This technique requires a bit of finesse and control, but with practice, you’ll be able to master the art of fishing crankbaits in grass.
Perfecting your crankbait retrieval technique in grass takes time and practice, but with the right adjustments, you’ll be able to navigate through the vegetation and entice fish to strike.
Choosing the Right Crankbait
When it comes to choosing the right crankbait, there are a few key factors to consider. The buoyancy and action of the lure, as well as its ability to avoid catching grass, are crucial for successful crankbait fishing.
Benefits of Balsa Crankbaits
Balsa crankbaits, such as the Rapala DT (Dives-to) Series, are a popular choice among anglers for several reasons. Balsa wood is buoyant, which allows the lure to float back up when paused, preventing it from getting snagged in the grass.
Additionally, balsa crankbaits tend to have a tighter wiggling action compared to other materials. This tighter wiggle reduces the chances of the lure’s bill and hooks catching grass or vegetation, allowing it to move smoothly through the water.
Choosing a balsa crankbait can increase your chances of success when fishing in grass, as it provides better maneuverability and prevents unnecessary snags.
Avoiding Grass Catching
When fishing in grassy areas, it’s important to choose crankbaits that are less likely to get caught in the grass. Crankbaits with a well-designed bill or lip that directs the lure away from the grass can greatly reduce the chances of snagging.
As mentioned earlier, balsa crankbaits often have a tighter wiggle and a well-designed bill that allows them to navigate through grassy areas without getting caught. By selecting crankbaits with these features, you can minimize the frustration of constant snags and focus more on catching fish.
Recommendations for Best Crankbait Brands
While there are many reputable crankbait brands on the market, some stand out for their quality and effectiveness. Rapala is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of high-quality crankbaits, including the DT Series mentioned earlier.
Other notable brands include Strike King, Savage Gear, and Megabass, which also offer a variety of crankbaits designed for different fishing conditions and species. It’s always a good idea to do some research and read reviews to determine which crankbait brands and models are best suited for your specific fishing needs.
Choosing the right crankbait can significantly impact your success when fishing in grassy areas. Selecting buoyant and well-designed crankbaits will help you navigate through the vegetation and increase your chances of enticing fish to strike.
Feider’s Approach to Crankbait Fishing in Weeds
Now that we have covered the basics of crankbait fishing and the techniques for fishing in grass, let’s take a closer look at Seth Feider’s approach to fishing crankbaits in weeds. Seth’s approach focuses on maintaining a consistent running depth and utilizing a methodical reeling and stopping technique, similar to Carolina rig fishing.
Maintaining Consistent Running Depth
One of the key aspects of Seth’s approach is maintaining a consistent running depth for the crankbait. By keeping the lure at a specific depth, you can effectively target fish at that level and entice them to strike.
To maintain a consistent running depth, Seth utilizes a slow and rhythmic reeling and stopping technique. This technique mimics the natural movement of prey species, attracting fish and triggering their predatory instincts.
Reeling and Stopping Techniques
Seth’s reeling and stopping technique is a combination of steady reeling and occasional pauses. By reeling the crankbait steadily and then pausing for short intervals, Seth creates a realistic presentation that mimics the movement of a wounded or vulnerable baitfish.
During the pauses, the crankbait hovers in place or rises slightly, mimicking the behavior of prey trying to evade predators. This intermittent stopping and starting can be highly effective at triggering reaction strikes from fish in weedy areas.
Similarities to Carolina Rig Fishing
Seth’s methodical reeling and stopping technique shares similarities with Carolina rig fishing. The Carolina rig is a popular setup that consists of a weight, a leader, and a bait. By maintaining tension on the line and using a dragging and pausing retrieve, anglers can effectively present the bait while keeping it close to the bottom.
Seth’s approach to crankbait fishing in weeds borrows elements from the Carolina rig technique by incorporating pauses and keeping the bait at a consistent running depth. This methodical approach can be highly effective in enticing strikes from fish hiding in the weeds.
Learning from techniques used in other fishing styles, such as Carolina rig fishing, can help you develop your own unique approach to crankbait fishing in different environments.
Gear Recommendations for Successful Crankbait Fishing
Having the right gear is crucial for successful crankbait fishing. When selecting your gear, consider the type of rod, reel, and line that will best suit your fishing needs and allow you to effectively present and retrieve your crankbaits.
Choosing the Right Fishing Rod
When it comes to rod selection for crankbait fishing, Seth Feider recommends using a heavier power glass rod. A glass rod provides the right blend of strength and flexibility to handle fish and navigate through vegetation.
Glass rods have a slower action compared to graphite rods, which allows for a more moderate bend during the fight. This slower bend helps keep the fish hooked and prevents them from throwing the crankbait during the fight.
The heavy power rating of the rod provides the backbone and strength needed to handle larger fish and navigate through heavy cover. When fishing in weedy areas, a heavier power rod can help you control the fish and avoid unnecessary snags.
Best Types of Fishing Reels
When it comes to selecting a reel for crankbait fishing, a fast reel is generally preferred. A fast gear ratio reel allows for quicker line retrieval, which is important when using a slow and steady reeling technique.
A reel with a gear ratio of 6:1 or higher is often recommended for crankbait fishing. This faster retrieval speed allows you to cover more water and make more casts, increasing your chances of triggering strikes.
It’s also important to consider the overall quality and durability of the reel. Look for reels that are built to withstand the rigors of crankbait fishing and have smooth drag systems to handle the fight when you hook into a fish.
Using Strong Fluorocarbon Line to Secure Hooks
The choice of fishing line is another important consideration for successful crankbait fishing. Seth Feider recommends using strong fluorocarbon line in the 12 to 14-pound test range.
Fluorocarbon line is known for its high strength and abrasion resistance, making it well-suited for fishing around grass and vegetation. It also has low visibility underwater, which can be beneficial when targeting finicky fish.
Using a slightly heavier line can also help secure the hooks on the crankbait and prevent fish from throwing the lure during the fight. This added strength gives you more control and increases your chances of successfully landing fish when fishing in weedy areas.
By choosing the right fishing rod, reel, and line, you can improve your overall performance and increase your chances of success when fishing with crankbaits.
Crankbait Fishing Around Coontail Grass
Coontail grass is a common aquatic plant that offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially when using crankbaits. Let’s take a closer look at why coontail grass is a good option and explore some techniques for fishing with crankbaits in this type of vegetation.
Why Coontail Grass is a Good Option
Coontail grass provides cover and habitat for fish, making it an ideal location to target when fishing with crankbaits. The dense growth of coontail grass offers hiding places for baitfish and other prey species, which in turn attracts predator fish.
Bass, in particular, are known to hide and ambush their prey in and around coontail grass. By effectively fishing this type of vegetation, you can increase your chances of encountering bass and other predator fish.
Techniques for Crankbait Fishing in Coontail Grass
When fishing with crankbaits in coontail grass, it’s important to use techniques that allow you to navigate through the vegetation without getting snagged. Here are a few techniques to consider:
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Ripping and pausing: This technique involves ripping the crankbait through the coontail grass and then pausing it. The ripping motion helps the lure break free from any grass that may have caught on it, while the pause mimics the behavior of wounded prey.
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Bumping and deflecting: Another effective technique for fishing crankbaits in coontail grass is to bump the lure into the grass and then deflect it off. This action imitates a baitfish that has collided with the vegetation and creates a reaction strike from predators.
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Slow-cranking: In areas with thick coontail grass, it may be necessary to slow down your crankbait retrieve. By cranking the lure slowly, you can keep it just above the tops of the grass, increasing your chances of enticing strikes.
Experimenting with different techniques and adjusting your presentation based on the fish’s behavior is key to successfully fishing with crankbaits in coontail grass.
Mastering Crankbait Size and Depth Matching
Matching the size and diving depth of your crankbait to the fishing conditions is crucial for increasing your chances of success. Let’s explore the importance of size and depth matching and how it can improve your crankbait fishing.
Importance of Size and Depth Matching
Fish are often selective when it comes to the size and depth at which they prefer to feed. By matching your crankbait to the size and depth of their prey, you can create a more realistic presentation and trigger their feeding response.
Using a crankbait that closely resembles the size and profile of the baitfish or prey species in the water can greatly increase your chances of attracting fish. Similarly, adjusting the depth at which your crankbait runs to match the depth at which fish are feeding can make a significant difference in your success.
Relation Between Crankbait Size and Fishing Conditions
When it comes to choosing the right crankbait size, several factors come into play, including the size of the fish you are targeting, the available forage, and the fishing conditions.
In general, larger crankbaits are more suitable for targeting larger predator fish, such as bass. These crankbaits create a more substantial presence and can mimic larger prey species, enticing bigger fish to strike.
However, it’s important to consider the available forage in the water. If the baitfish or prey species are smaller in size, using a smaller crankbait can be more effective in matching the size and profile of the prey.
Additionally, the fishing conditions, such as water clarity and light conditions, can also influence the size of crankbait that is most effective. In clear water, smaller crankbaits can be more successful, as fish have a clearer view of their surroundings and may be more skittish. In stained or muddy water, larger crankbaits with more vibration and presence can be more effective at attracting fish.
By considering the fishing conditions and the size and behavior of the fish’s prey, you can make informed decisions when selecting the right crankbait size and depth for your fishing location.
How to Improve Casting Precision
Casting precision is crucial when fishing with crankbaits, especially in weedy areas where accuracy is essential. Here are some tips and techniques to improve your casting precision and increase your chances of landing fish.
Benefits of Using Electronics
Using electronics, such as fish finders and depth sounders, can greatly improve casting precision. By mapping out the underwater structure and vegetation, you can accurately target areas with higher fish activity.
Most modern electronics offer features like GPS mapping, which allows you to mark specific spots and navigate back to them easily. This can be helpful when fishing around weed beds or other areas with intricate underwater structure.
By using electronics to your advantage, you can cast accurately to the desired spots and increase your chances of encountering fish.
Tips for Precise Casting
In addition to using electronics, here are some tips and techniques to improve your casting precision:
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Practice your casting: Regular practice is key to becoming proficient at casting. Take the time to practice your casting technique in a controlled environment before hitting the water. By honing your skills, you’ll be able to cast more accurately and efficiently when on the water.
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Focus on your target: When casting, keep your eyes on your target and visualize the path you want your lure to take. This will help you aim more accurately and cast the lure exactly where you want it to go.
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Use the right amount of force: It’s important to find the right balance between power and finesse when casting. Using too much force can result in an inaccurate cast, while using too little force may not allow your lure to reach the desired spot. Practice casting with different amounts of force to find the sweet spot for your technique.
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Consider your surroundings: Take into account any obstacles or wind direction when casting. Adjust your casting angle and force accordingly to compensate for any factors that may affect the trajectory of your cast.
By practicing your casting technique, using electronics to your advantage, and staying focused on your target, you can greatly improve your casting precision and increase your chances of landing fish.
Conclusion: Perfecting Your Crankbait Fishing Skills
Fishing with crankbaits in weeds for summer bass is an exciting and rewarding technique that can yield impressive results. By understanding the basics of crankbait fishing, matching your crankbaits to the running depth and grass height, perfecting your retrieval technique in grass, choosing the right crankbait, following Seth Feider’s approach, and using the right gear, you can greatly increase your chances of success.
Remember to always consider the fishing conditions, adapt your techniques as needed, and be open to experimentation and learning from the experts. With practice and perseverance, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled crankbait angler.
So, get out there, enjoy the thrill of crankbait fishing, and may your next fishing adventure be filled with excitement and plenty of bass catches!