Okay, so I found this new small river (30 ft across) that I have been wanting to fish. I posted on here for some pointers. Today I went to check it out. I caught a little sun perch on the first cast with an inline spinner. Then, I decided to trek on upstream in search of a ponding area. I spotted a huge rock out in the water and as I was making my way toward it I saw a flash in the water. It was about a 3-4 lb spotted bass, female, and about a 2 lb male with her. I tied on a texas rigged 4 inch dinger and pitched it to her. She immediately turned and charged the bait. Just as her nose hit the worm she stopped and then drifted away. I spent the next 2 hours throwing everything I had with me with no luck. I tried a 2 inch smoke grub, a 2 inch sassy shad, a wacky worm, the inline spinner, and a buzz bait. This water is super clear and about 3-4 feet deep. I can see EVERYTHING on the bottom. I feel like I needed a small jig, but I didn't have one with me. What do you guys think would be the ticket?

Jig or a tube. That would be my choice.

First off, your approach has to VERY quiet and careful. Any heavy footing will turn them off right away. "Stay low, move slow", is how I like to think about it, when I'm fishing small streams as you describe.

Next, make sure you're using 4# - 6# test fluorocarbon line (4# preferably), on a long (7' - 8') lite-action rod. I'd also opt for a #2 in-line circle hook. Nose hook your 4" Senko, instead of Texas rigging - and try the 3" instead. Your presentation has to look as natural as possible. Yep...you'll loose some. Comes with the territory I'm afraid. The longer rod will help you in controlling the powerful smallies you're finding. Good Luck!

Update!!! Thanks guys for the input. I spooled up some 4lb test line and nose hooked a small 4 in. drop shot worm. I caught two small spotted bass. I could not get the larger fish to eat it. I changed to a small jig with a twin tail grub trailer. I pulled in a nice keeper on the first cast. Thanks for the help. Good fishin to all of you.

Thanks for the help. Good fishin to all of you.

Hmm, that was a short thread.

"Say Goodnight Gracie"

I do well with tubes in clear water. Prefer gitzit, in craw color, on a 5/16th or 3/8 jighead (pending depth)