The Best Bass Lures: Getting Jiggy With It

Smallmouth bass can be caught on many different fishing lures such as spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastics but the classic bass jig is the best smallmouth bass artificial bait or lure. A jig is a weighted head secured to a hook. One of the reasons it is so popular is its versatility. Here are 4 reasons the jig is among the best smallmouth bass lures:

Bass Jigs Drop Quickly

A quickly sinking bass jig forces a fish to make a decision. It says, “You snooze, you lose, Mr. Bass!” A fast drop also helps because it immediately gets the lure into the strike zone which is near the bottom, usually around rocks. This is a more efficient lure than say a lipped crankbait which would take several cranks for the lure to reach the lower depths.

Smallmouth Bass Are Fooled by Bounce

Paired with a shad type body or standard grub tail, this fishing lure can be reeled steadily like a swimming bait fish with a tantalizing wiggle of the tail. Or, the jig can be bounced up and down with a slower retrieve perhaps in a “tube” to present it diving and darting to trigger smallmouth bass strikes.

Cast Farther with a Bass Jig

The jig is efficient with its dynamics in water and in air as it shoots great distances with a strong, well-timed casting technique. There are no fluttering parts to drag in the wind like a spinnerbait or some spoons.

Wire Hooks Hit Minor Snags

If working a new area or near the bottom (as you should), snags happen. Wire hooks on many jigs might bend enough with applied pressure to release from rocks. In the worst case scenario, angler and jig may become separated. However, the cost of replacement is minimal compared to most crankbaits or other lure types.

The jig is a must in any smallmouth bass tackle box. In fact, many times it is the only lure I carry to the river, along with a handful of different soft plastic tipping options. Before you get “jiggy” with smallmouth bass, be sure to check your state regulations.