Hey guys!

I'm new to the forum but not new to fishing. I do have a question though about trying to catch fish that are hitting baitfish around my boat. Last weekend I was fishing a small island in the middle of the lake and suddenly the baitfish out in about 25-30ft of water starting going nuts so I know there was something chasing them. This went on for probably 30 minutes on and off. I threw spinner baits, crankbaits, and even some plastics in the action and couldn't get a strike. I know there are Stripers, Largemouth, and smallmouth in this lake but I'm not sure what was chasing the baitfish. Any ideas on how to capitalize on the action?

Thanks

J

Welcome aboard!

The general answer is a "baitfish" immitator. The challenge is often being able to reach the target or schooling fish. If casting distance is the issue, it's hard to beat a Rat-L-Trap, Pointer or Johnson Original Silver Minnow (spoon). Otherwise, spinnerbaits or Floating Rapala can be effective.

 8-)

Do you suggest throwing dirrectly into the schools of baitfish or go beyond and retrieve back through?

Welcome to the boards!

To add to Road Warrior's list, the Zara Spook and Spittin Image top water baits can be launched a long way as well. You could also opt for a Little George or Strike King's Thruster Tail. Toss them into the middle of the action and let them sink down through. Generally,the smaller bass will bust up the baitfish while the bigger ones wait below for the easier meal to come floating down.

I don't think it matters, the fish are in a feeding frenzy and your

lure usually won't spook them. The key is to have your bait in the

mix when the action is taking place.

basser89 corrected a glaring omission in my post, especially when

the predator fish are stripers, topwater is THE BOMB!

8-)

Awsome! sounds like you guys have given me a really good reason to buy a few more lures this afternoon! ;D

Sounds like you have met our friend the "BAIT MONKEY"

I've also had luck with Rapala's new subwalk.