S un U d C e C rc E o S ve S r
Story & Photos
BY DAN RICE
T
here are very few secrets in bass fishing,
but most of the trade surprises involve se-
cret baits and modifications that can take
years for the general population to master. One of the most under-utilized baits in our
industry is the underspin. As the bait moved from the
southeast out west, the technique has proven itself
as a great multi-species tool.
From spotted bass, to smallmouth and
largemouth, this is one productive winter choice that
will out-fish every other bait in the boat.
Underspins or horsehead jigs, as they are
commonly referred to, are extremely successful as
the water temps enter the 50s and below, but they
can be successfully fished all year long. You hear that
a lot throughout the industry, but this is one lure that
really can be fished no matter the conditions.
From suspended fish over wood and weedlines to
fish seeking deeper water structure, this technique
involves a very small learning curve. By focusing on the bait and trailer, these subtle details will help you choose the most effective route to quickly assemble confidence with any underspin on the market.
THE UNDERSPIN
After Casey Ashley’s Bassmaster Classic win in 2015, many manufacturers upgraded components such as swivels, hooks and head designs. The success instantly put this age-old technique back on the map and it can now be found nationwide both in retail locations and in online tackle stores. They are even being manufactured by anglers in their own homes, due to the lure’s simple components.
The two most important aspects of choosing an underspin is the quality of the hook and the blade’s ability to spin freely with the preferred trailer.
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