As water temperatures drop and bass retreat to deeper, more elusive areas, anglers often face the challenge of enticing these finicky fish. One technique that has proven effective in such conditions is the use of underspin lures—a favorite of professional angler Dean Rojas.
In this article, we’ll explore the effectiveness of underspins, delve into Rojas’ preferred methods, discuss selecting the right underspin for varying conditions, and highlight the optimal gear to enhance your success.
What Makes an Underspin Effective?
An underspin is essentially a jighead paired with a soft plastic bait featuring a small blade attached beneath. As the lure moves through the water, the blade spins, creating flash and subtle vibrations that mimic baitfish—a primary food source for bass, especially in colder months. This combination of visual appeal and movement makes underspins particularly effective for targeting suspended bass in deeper waters.
Dean Rojas’ Favorite Underspin Techniques
Dean Rojas, renowned for his prowess in bass fishing, often turns to underspins when targeting bass in cold water. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the lure above the fish to increase the likelihood of a strike.
Rojas prefers the Epic Baits Fishing Underspin, noting its effectiveness in reaching specific depths and maintaining a steady retrieve. He advises using a slow, consistent speed to keep the bait in the strike zone longer, which is crucial when bass are less active in colder temperatures.
Choosing the Right Underspin for Different Conditions
Selecting the appropriate underspin involves considering factors such as water clarity, depth, and bass activity levels:
- Water Clarity: In clear water, a nickel blade underspin is ideal, as it provides a natural flash that attracts bass without overwhelming them. In murkier waters, a gold blade can offer better visibility.
- Depth and Retrieve Speed: For shallower waters or when a slower presentation is needed, pairing the underspin with a paddle-tail swimbait like the Big Bite Baits Pro Swimmer can be effective. This combination sinks slowly and allows for a deliberate retrieve. In deeper waters or when a faster presentation is required, a more streamlined soft plastic, such as the Big Bite Baits Jerk Minnow, facilitates quicker sinking and retrieval.
Best Gear for Underspin Fishing
To optimize underspin fishing, Rojas recommends using a 7′ to 7’3″ medium-heavy rod paired with a 6.3:1 baitcasting reel. This setup provides the necessary sensitivity and power to handle deep-water bass. Spooling the reel with 10 to 12-pound fluorocarbon line, such as Sunline FC Sniper, balances strength and low visibility, crucial for enticing wary bass in clear, cold waters.
As you prepare for your next cold-water fishing trip, consider incorporating underspins into your tackle box. With the right technique and equipment, you’ll be well-equipped to entice those elusive, suspended bass and enjoy a successful day on the water.