Fall 2022
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baitfish scooting along grass edges, huddling around docks and trying their best to remain unnoticed, the downsized presentation of a tiny frog like the 1 1/2-inch SPRO Bronzeye Pop 40 can work wonders.
This is typically a spinning rod deal, as the 1/5-ounce bait is a tough proposition for baitcasting gear. Still, braid is the way to go for handling big fish, but it will also increase your casting distance.
NOTE: With tiny frogs, Hallman said you got to remind yourself to ease off the throttle. The hardware is smaller and lighter, so leaning on one too hard will bend a hook open and give you fish the chance to escape.
CONSIDER THE DEPTHS: Pads or grass beds on channel swing banks keep the safety and convenience of deep water close. Also, the reloading factor is greatest in such spots, so returning throughout the day could prove extensively productive.
On the California Delta, frog-friendly cover close to current, but off the strongest flow merits close attention. The daily flow means easy food delivery.
ADDITIONAL COVER: A laydown tucked inside a grass bed not only offers that “something different” element that
fish favor, it also guarantees open space below the ceiling, as the obstruction blocks grass growth. The tree adds a potentially complicating element when fighting a fish, but this is a very worthwhile give-and-take.
ROD CHOICE: As Ehrler points out, different frogging scenarios require different rods. For mats and any heavy cover, he relies on the 7-4 heavy Daiwa Ish Monroe Frog Rod for the negotiating power he often needs.
However, when he’s skipping into those shadow pockets where the semi-stationary presentations maximize
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