exactly where the bass are holding. Once pinpointed I can slow down and make multiple presentations to a specific area, which is often required when coaxing a bass into biting in cold water.
When the water temperature starts to break free from winter’s frigid grasp bass will look for cover that generates heat and offers security in preparation for the upcoming spawn.
Vegetation offers both.
Focus on tulles, lily pads, hyacinth, or any vegetation with the ability to form a canopy bass can hide under. I look for both the emergent and matted vegetation near pre-spawn staging areas, like points, pockets, and contour breaks near spawning flats.
I want to fish green, healthy vegetation because I know there’s good oxygen and bait in the area. However, I don’t ignore what may look like dead or dying vegetation after a freeze, because vegetation above the water line can turn brown, but it’s still healthy below the water.
LURE CHOICES
I’ve developed a lot of confidence fishing the Yamamoto Flappin’ Hog and it’s become my go-to plastic for flippin’ and pitching.
The Flappin’ Hog is designed to flip and pitch with a hollow section close to the tail allowing for solid hook penetration. In addition, its appendages are attached close to the body which allows it to slide easily through vegetation.
I fish the 3.75” most of the time, but reach for the 4.5” when I want a larger profile bait.
I keep my color choices simple — Green Pumpkin in clear to stained water and Black with Blue Flake in heavily stained water.
KNOTS, HOOKS, SKIRTS
I always use a Snell knot to attach my hook. The Snell knot turns the hook up to a 90 degree angle when pressure is applied allowing for solid hook penetration in the upper roof of the bass’ mouth.
It’s also important to choose the right hook for flippin’. I rely on the Owner 4x Jungle flippin’
WINTER 2016
Hook because it has a 100% closed eye which is necessary when using a Snell knot. The Jungle flippin’ Hook is also made of Owner’s Zo-wire construction, which is stronger than traditional high carbon steel wires giving it a smaller diameter with increased strength.
Before attaching my weight and hook I always slide a rubber stopper (or two stoppers, if I’m fishing a weight that is 1 ½-oz or heavier) onto my line to keep my weight from sliding. Doing so keeps the bait compact and allows it to slide through cover efficiently.
I always keep a handful of skirts on hand because sometimes bass respond better to a jig profile rather than an undressed creature style bait. Adding a punch skirt is a great way to add bulk and action. It also keeps vegetation from wrapping around the plastic. I like to match my skirt colors to my plastic keeping with shades of green and black and blue.
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Photo by Pedro Felix