ebfish

I use one versus the other based on bulk, reaction, forage, rate of fall. I use a jig first mainly because i like my big bites first and as far as my averages, bigger bites come on jigs. Sometimes it is just a matter of playing with both to see which they want more that day. On a tough dragging bite sometimes they want the slimmer profile of plastics, but then on the same days they could want the more real and life like movement of the jig skirt. If i am hangin the jig up alot i switch. I just keep both handy.

I'm not a die hard brand user when it comes to crank baits. I tend to visit BPS regularly to see what they have on sale. I just picked up a few wiggle warts for under $5 each.

"Swim Jigs in all types of conditions and cover" 1) It depends on if I'm fishing north or south of the Mason Dixon line. I match the common food sources. When fishing North a single-tail grub works best for me. In the South a Rage Tail Craw works best. 2) Then I check the water clarity to determine size and color 3) Next I consider the structure i will be fishing - heavy cover = heavy line 4) Finally I experiment with the pumping motion until I find a pattern 5) Tweak from there...

Just north of you we are using Black and Blue with great results. I have used football, rattle and swim and have seen no difference. I do suggest trimming the plastic weedless skirt a little. It binds a little more in the heavy stuff but makes for a better hook set. I tend to hook a pig or similar color trailer on it until the water gets over 70. Don't know if that makes a whole lot of difference but it works well for me.

My favorite "Big Bass" lure is relative. I have fished spawning lunkers where nothing but a bubblegum trick worm would get a strike. So on that day I would have to say... bubblegum trick worm. However, nothing gets your adrenaline pumping (and spills your coffee) like a top-water attack on a buzz bait.