For those that fish from shore, or from a boat without the aid of electronics, a 'search bait' is a valuable tool in locating active bass. Most anglers will automatically think of crankbaits when this topic is discussed, but others like a swim jig or spinnerbait are equally effective in searching out active fish. I'm wondering if anyone else used a jerkbait (hard or soft plastic) as a search bait?  Although my boat is equipped with electronics at both the console and the front deck, when fishing shallow water, I rarely mark fish even though I know the bass should be in the general area.

One of my favorite ways to search out those areas is with a  Norman Speed N, or a jerkbait. When worked fast they will draw strikes from both active fish and those in a more neutral mood.  Once I get bit, I'll make a few more casts with that bait until I don't contact any more fish.  Often times the fish will swipe, or slap at those offerings. Either way, I'll then switch to a presentation that I can methodically cover that smaller area. This approach has been extremely effective this season on an old gravel pit where the deepest water is 12ft.

Today I dropped the crankbait and jerkbait to search with a rattletrap.

Hadn't thrown it yet this year but they liked my yooyoo presentation.

9 hours ago, papajoe222 said:

When worked fast they will draw strikes from both active fish and those in a more neutral mood.  

I'd like to ask how to tell the difference ?

They all look the same to me in the net.

A-Jay

18 minutes ago, A-Jay said:

I'd like to ask how to tell the difference ?

They look the same to me in the net.

A-Jay

The active fish are wearing camo sneakers. If you look close, you can see the laces. 

7 minutes ago, papajoe222 said:

The active fish are wearing camo sneakers. If you look close, you can see the laces. 

Prefect ~

Just knew it had to be something simple & obvious.

I may need new glasses . . . 

?

A-Jay