There are plenty of spinnerbaits out there but in terms of this site when I say a ‘medium spinnerbait’ I’m referring to a 1/2oz model that I would throw on a medium heavy rod. The other type of spinnerbait that I like to use is a larger one that I would throw on my heavy rod, but the focus for this page will be the smaller one.
The spinnerbait has been around for a very long time. These days it doesn’t seem to be as popular as some other lures like the bladed jig, umbrella rig and underspin have gained popularity, but I personally still like to throw one and it continues to work well for me. In terms of colors, I usually like to go with a natural / electric shad looking profile, white, and chartreuse and white if the visibility is lower. Blade types and colors can also vary on spinnerbaits, and I usually like to go with a double willow blade if the water is clear or a tandem (willow and colorado) if the visibility is lower.
One of the main reasons I like a spinnerbait is it comes through cover a little better than something like an umbrella rig. Don’t get me wrong umbrella rigs can definitely catch fish, but if you are fishing around a lot of cover and there’s a lot of stuff that can cause it to get snagged and hung up, replacing them can start to get expensive and time consuming. On the other hand a spinnerbait is easier to rig up and doesn’t cost as much but still offers a similar profile which works well if the fish are feeding on shad.
In terms of when to use one, there are a lot of opinions on that. Some people will say to use one when it’s windy. Others will say it works well in early spring. I personally think it can be a good option if there’s cover around and they are feeding on shad, although I will admit that I have noticed that it does seem to do especially well if it’s windy and partly cloudy. I usually go with a medium size spinnerbait if I think the bass might want a smaller profile, and as far as specific baits go, my current favorite is the Megabass SV-3 and they currently offer a Double Willow and Slow Roll model.
Lure Summary – Large Spinnerbait
Suggested Rod Length: 7′ – 7’3″
Suggested Rod Power: Medium Heavy
Suggested Rod Action: Fast
Suggested Reel Type: Casting Reel
Suggested Gear Ratio: 6.8:1
Lure Weight (est.): .88oz
Tackle Required
- 14lb Fluorocarbon Line
Suggested Baits
- Megabass SV-3 Double Willow
- Megabass SV-3 Slow Roll
Suggested Soft Plastic Baits
- 6th Sense Juggle Minnow