COUNTING DOWN
So how do you know if your underspin is in the right depth? Here is Hawk’s simple guide to counting down different weights:
• 1/4 oz. - 1/2 ft./sec.
• 3/8 oz. - 1/2- to-1 ft./sec. depending on trailer
• 1/2 oz. - 1 ft./sec. (Note: this is Hawk’s go-to
marker when determining depth)
• 3/4 oz. and heavier - Hawk typically just lets
these hit the bottom before he reels them in
be able to excel in these conditions, as
they can be counted down to specific
depths (see sidebar) and have the
subtle action and flash to tempt cold,
suspended fish, particularly spots.
In these situations, Hawk targets
docks and standing timber where
spotted bass will school up. He’ll then
typically use a 3/8- or ½-ounce
model with a Yamamoto D Shad
trailer, which he will cut down to
size, when he feels it’s needed.
From there, it’s pretty simple.
Cast the lure out, count it down just
above the standing timber or depth
of the school – Hawk prefers to
start off far above the cover or
school and progressively increase
the jig’s weight until he finds the
depth that triggers the fish – and
slowly reel the lure back in. Don’t
get fancy with it.
“In my experience, a slow
steady retrieve works the best,”
says Hawk. “Even when a fish
comes up, hits it but doesn’t take
it, I’ve tried to pop and twitch
the rod. It doesn’t seem to help.
Instead, just keep on reeling and
they’ll often come back.”
This brings up another key point: there is only one hook on an underspin, and a fish has to swallow the lure to get to it. So do not – repeat, DO NOT – set the hook when you feel a bite. Instead, just keep reeling until the rod loads up. Then let the fish have it.
WARM AND BIG
All of the above is fine and good, but what if you live on a lake that has stained water, little to no standing timber and only largemouths. What if you live on a lake like Guntersville? Well, Hawk guides there,
SPRING 2016
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