The Ultimate Guide to Spring Bass Fishing: Gear Up for Success

Spring bass fishing offers some of the most dynamic and rewarding angling opportunities of the year. As bass transition through pre-spawn, spawn, and post-spawn phases, understanding their behavior and equipping yourself with the right gear is crucial. This guide dives into essential tactics and highlights top-tier equipment from our partners to elevate your spring bass fishing experience.

During the pre-spawn phase, bass begin moving from deeper waters to staging areas near their spawning grounds. As temperatures rise and daylight increases, they shift into spawn mode, where they build nests in shallow water and become highly territorial and aggressive. Once the spawn concludes, bass enter the post-spawn period, a time of recovery when they feed heavily to regain energy lost during reproduction. Recognizing these phases is key to selecting effective lures and fishing techniques.

Essential Apparel for Spring Fishing

AFTCO Deckhand Shorts are built for anglers who value functionality and comfort on the water. The Teflon EcoElite™ DWR finish resists stains from fish slime and water, keeping your shorts looking fresh. An elastic waistband with a zipper fly ensures a snug and secure fit, while multiple pockets, including hook-and-loop flap cargo and back pockets, offer ample storage for tackle and tools. A reinforced Block Tapey™ 300D plier pocket adds utility, and anglers can now choose between classic solids or a stealthy camo print for added style.

For your upper body, the AFTCO Adapt Hooded Shirts deliver performance in fluctuating spring conditions. These shirts feature UPF 50 sun protection and Adapt Phase Change Technology to regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s not. The quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric ensures lasting comfort, while mesh side panels and thumb holes enhance ventilation and coverage. The SpeedVent™ hood reduces drag while running the boat, and there’s also a version with a built-in mask for extra protection.

Top Equipment Picks

When it comes to fishing line, Sunline ALMIGHT Sinking Braided Line offers a significant advantage with its unique sinking design. With a specific gravity of 1.48, it sinks faster than traditional braid, keeping your line tight and increasing sensitivity for quicker hooksets. It’s available in high-visibility pink or a natural olive color, and comes in a range of strengths suitable for various applications.

Another excellent line choice is Sunline Shooter Fluorocarbon, available in three specialized versions. The Finesse Special, in the 7 to 9 lb range, offers extra stretch and abrasion resistance for delicate techniques like drop-shotting. The Marionette Special, from 10 to 20 lb, balances sensitivity and toughness for jigs, swimbaits, and crankbaits. Finally, the Power Special, ranging from 22 to 30 lb, is built for flipping and heavy cover, with added stretch for shock absorption. All versions provide low memory and excellent castability.

The Denali Gunner Series Rods are a top pick for expert anglers, combining 24-ton graphite blanks for the perfect balance of sensitivity and strength. Outfitted with durable Fuji guides and comfortable AAA cork grips with EVA butt sections, these rods reduce fatigue during long sessions. The split grip reel seat enhances blank exposure, increasing sensitivity so you can detect even the subtlest bites.

For heavy cover and power fishing, the Gamakatsu G-Power Punch and Flip Hook is a must-have. Crafted from Tournament Grade Wire, it’s incredibly strong and built to withstand the stress of punching through mats or flipping into thick cover. A welded eye prevents line slippage, while the Nano Smooth Coat ensures fast penetration. The custom Tin Keeper, designed by Aaron Martens, holds soft plastics firmly without adding unnecessary weight.

If you’re targeting bass in shallow grass or lily pads, the SPRO Bronzeye Frog 65 is an essential topwater bait. Designed by pro angler Dean Rojas, this frog features a 65mm body and weighs 5/8 oz, making it easy to cast long distances and place accurately. Its walking action mimics natural prey, and the soft body compresses easily for better hook-up ratios. A Gamakatsu 4/0 EWG double hook ensures solid hooksets even in dense cover.

By combining the right techniques with high-performance gear and apparel, you’ll be well-equipped to capitalize on everything spring bass fishing has to offer.

When innovation meets artistry, you get something that turns heads at the boat ramp and gets crushed on the water. That’s exactly what happened when Tackle Warehouse Chop Shop, RiosFishes, and G-Ratt Baits joined forces to create the TW G-Ratt Glide Bait—a limited-edition swimbait built for those chasing true giants. With a custom juvenile trout colorway and hand-painted details that push the boundaries of realism, this bait isn’t just a collector’s dream—it’s a straight-up fish catcher.

If you’re into big bait fishing or just appreciate custom craftsmanship, this collaboration is worth your full attention.

A Self-Taught Artist with a Delta State of Mind

The man behind the paintbrush is Lawrence Rios, better known in the swimbait scene as @RiosFishes. Based in Elk Grove, California, Rios is a lifelong angler who grew up targeting largemouth and striped bass on the California Delta and nearby reservoirs. Like a lot of us, he got into bait customization out of necessity. Back in 2019, frustrated with the lack of unique colorways on the market, he picked up an airbrush and started painting his own glide baits.

Fast forward a couple of years, and that side hobby turned into something serious. In 2021, he connected with Garrett Dixon, owner of G-Ratt Baits, and began designing templates and custom one-offs for their popular lineup of hard baits. That partnership helped launch RiosFishes into the custom bait spotlight, and now, with the backing of TW Chop Shop, he’s taking it to another level.

A Glide Bait That’s as Functional as It Is Beautiful

At the core of this collaboration is the proven G-Ratt “Sneaky Pete” platform—an 8-inch, two-piece glide bait already known for its smooth swim, responsive action, and big-bass appeal. But what sets the TW Chop Shop x RiosFishes G-Ratt Glide Bait apart is the painstaking attention to detail.

The bait is hand-painted in a juvenile trout color scheme with lifelike parr marks, subtle scale patterns, and layered shading that mimics the real thing down to the gill plate. Each bait is individually finished, giving it that boutique-level feel you usually only find in custom garage builds. The result? A bait that looks almost too pretty to throw—but you absolutely should.

Built to Hunt Big Bites

Don’t let the art fool you—this bait is designed to be fished. It features a custom-molded, replaceable soft tail, so you can keep throwing it season after season without worrying about wear and tear. The body segments are engineered for tight yet natural movement, and the weighting is dialed for a range of retrieve speeds—from slow glides to more aggressive burns.

One of the slickest features is the internal knocking sound, which adds an audible element that draws attention in low-vis or high-pressure conditions. The bait also comes armed with 3X strong treble hooks on rotating hook hangers, helping to keep fish pinned even during head-shaking surges.

Whether you’re waking it just under the surface, sweeping it wide with slow turns, or giving it a few twitches to make it dart and pause like a fleeing baitfish, this thing flat-out performs.

Limited Drop, Maximum Demand

Let’s be real—baits like this don’t stay in stock long. This is a limited run, exclusive to Tackle Warehouse, and hand-painted baits by RiosFishes already have a following among collectors, tournament guys, and die-hard glide bait freaks.

It’s the kind of bait that’ll get a nod from fellow anglers just for having it in your box. But more importantly, it’s a bait you can lean on when you’re targeting double-digit largemouth or trophy-class stripers.

If you’re fishing clear water reservoirs where trout are a forage staple, or working the tules and flats of the Delta looking for a kicker, this bait is made for you.

Don’t Sleep on This Drop

If you’re even thinking about adding this bait to your lineup, now’s the time. With its custom look, fishability, and limited availability, this one’s not going to sit on shelves. And once they’re gone, they’re gone.

👉 Grab yours at Tackle Warehouse

Final Thoughts: A Glide Bait That Delivers on Every Level

The TW Chop Shop x RiosFishes G-Ratt Glide Bait is more than just a swimbait—it’s a statement. It represents everything that makes the custom bait scene so exciting: artistry, innovation, and a deep connection to the pursuit of big fish.

Whether you’re chasing trophies on pressured waters or just want a bait that stands out in your arsenal, this collaboration hits the mark. It’s functional. It’s beautiful. And most importantly—it catches fish.

So tie one on, make that long cast, and get ready for the kind of bite that makes throwing big baits so addicting.

There’s just something different about catching a fish on a jig you built with your own two hands. It’s not just the catch—it’s the whole process. From picking out the paint to tying on the skirt and seeing it come to life underwater, it adds a whole new layer of satisfaction to every bite. That’s exactly what you get with the Weedless Football Jig Kit from Do-it Molds.

This kit gives you everything you need to start pouring and building your own weedless football jigs—except the best part: the creativity. That part’s on you. Whether you’re customizing colors for your local lake, dialing in a skirt profile for pressured bass, or just want to build a box full of baits that nobody else has, this kit makes it easy to jump into the world of DIY tackle.

Total Control Over Your Tackle

One of the biggest perks of making your own jigs is getting total control over how your bait looks and behaves in the water. With the Do-it Molds Weedless Football Jig Kit, you start with the mold and basic components, then add your own touch. Pick your favorite paint scheme—whether you’re into bold blues for stained water or keep-it-simple green pumpkin for clearer lakes. Match it with skirts that mimic your local forage or go wild and make something totally unique. The power’s in your hands.

And because these are football jigs, you’re working with a shape that’s ideal for dragging rocky bottom or fishing offshore structure. Pair that with the weed guard, and you’ve got a jig that slides through cover and stays snag-free in the gnarly stuff.

Save Money While Building Better Jigs

Let’s talk cost. Store-bought jigs typically run you $4 to $6 a pop—sometimes more if you’re buying premium brands. But with this kit, you’re building jigs for around $2 each. That’s not just affordable, it’s smart. Especially if you’re the kind of angler who burns through jigs on hard cover or deep structure.

More importantly, you’re not compromising on quality. These are tournament-grade jigs with sharp hooks and reliable components, made by you, so you know exactly what’s in them.

Built for Anglers Who Like to Tinker

Whether you’re new to pouring tackle or you’ve been dabbling in DIY for years, the Weedless Football Jig Kit is a solid jumping-off point. It’s easy to use, intuitive, and offers just the right amount of customization without being overwhelming. You’re not starting from scratch—you’re starting with a foundation and building it out your way.

This kit is especially appealing if you’re the kind of angler who likes to match the hatch, tweak your colors for different water clarities, or just plain enjoy the process of crafting something from the ground up.

Catch More Than Just Fish

There’s a deeper connection that comes with catching fish on gear you’ve built yourself. It’s not just about saving a few bucks or having a different color skirt—it’s about the pride, the process, and the personal touch. Every jig you pour becomes part of your tackle story, and when it gets inhaled by a big one, that moment means just a little more.

So whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-blown tackle tinkerer, the Do-it Molds Weedless Football Jig Kit is worth checking out. You’ll build better jigs, save money, and most of all—have a whole lot of fun doing it.

Why the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) Matters

The Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) has long been one of the most influential forces in the evolution of bass fishing, particularly in finesse techniques. Alongside the West Coast of the United States, Japan consistently introduces innovative lure designs and fishing strategies that reshape how American anglers approach their local waters.

JDM trends often emerge in high-pressure, clear-water fisheries—conditions that demand creativity, precision, and stealth. These qualities have led to the development of groundbreaking bait styles and presentation methods, many of which are now taking hold in the U.S.

1. The Appendage Explosion: Dice and Ko Baits

One of the most exciting JDM trends currently hitting U.S. waters is the rise of ultra-finesse baits packed with appendages. These highly detailed, movement-rich lures are gaining popularity for their unique underwater action.

Key Players:

• OSP Dice Rubber – A cube-shaped bait loaded with skirting-style appendages. When fished on a drop shot or screw lock weight, it exhibits unpredictable shimmying and shaking that drives bass wild.
• Hideup Coike – The original trendsetter in Japan, this bait offers a ball-like profile with unmatched underwater presence. It works well on a drop shot or Tokyo rig.
• Raid 2Way – With bulbous ends and a slimmer middle, this bait excels when wacky rigged. Its centipede-like movement is unlike anything bass have seen before.

2. The Strolling Revolution: Winged Swimbaits

“Strolling”—also known as hover strolling or mid-strolling—is a Japanese technique that’s taken over the finesse swimbait world. These baits feature soft bodies and winged profiles for maximum horizontal action during slow retrieves or light rod tip twitches.

Standouts in the Category:

• Deps Sakamata Shad – A winged bait with a soft, shimmery body that excels with light jigheads. Available in sizes up to 8 inches, it’s a proven big bass killer.
• Raid Fish Roller / Super Fish Roller – Compact, boxy-profiled baits with excellent rolling action. These have become go-to choices for finesse anglers.
• Duo Realis BR Fish – This two-part system pairs a winged jighead with a unique swimbait body. It produces a jerkbait-like side-to-side action that’s deadly on suspended bass.

3. Japanese Finesse Spinnerbaits

While spinnerbaits have long been a staple in American tackle boxes, Japan has refined them with finesse in mind. Lighter wire frames, smaller blades, and tighter vibrations are the hallmarks of these JDM designs.

Two Worth Trying:

• Megabass SV-3 – A top-tier finesse spinnerbait known for its tight wobble and fish-attracting flash.
• Nories Deeper Range – Designed for deep presentations, this bait offers quick vibration and is perfect for covering water fast.

These spinnerbaits provide consistent success when traditional full-sized models lose their effectiveness.

4. Oversized JDM Topwaters

In contrast to Japan’s finesse reputation, a surprising trend is emerging: oversized topwater baits. These lures are big, bold, and designed to grab attention in a major way.

Notable Models:

• Tomos Glide – A massive, ultra-realistic walking bait available in 8″ and 10″ sizes. Its finish and detailing mimic real baitfish with incredible accuracy.
• TLE Big Dog and Slash Kicker – Loud, aggressive topwaters with loud rattles and exaggerated movements. Perfect for pulling bass off bait balls or cover.

These large-profile baits are ideal when you need to draw strikes from fish that aren’t reacting to subtler topwater presentations.

5. Smaller Swimbaits with Big Results

Another major JDM bait trend is the downsized swimbait—perfect for clear water and finicky fish. While American anglers are familiar with the 6-inch Megabass Magdraft, the 5-inch version is making serious waves.

Trending Baits:

• 5-Inch Megabass Magdraft – More compact and versatile than its larger sibling, this version swims beautifully and comes in unique JDM colors.
• OSP HP Fish – A subtle swimbait with great tail action, perfect for mid-column presentations.
• Duo Realis Snappy Crappie – A multi-jointed swimbait with a hidden hook design and a wide, responsive swimming action. Ideal for twitching or steady retrieves.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Staying Ahead

The Japanese tackle market evolves fast—sometimes too fast to follow every single trend. But knowing which innovations are sticking—and which ones are catching big bass across the U.S.—can give you a significant edge.

Whether you’re a tournament angler or just chasing fish on the weekend, adding JDM baits to your arsenal can make all the difference. From finesse innovations to oversized topwaters and scrolling swimbaits, the hottest baits coming from Japan are helping anglers catch more fish—and bigger ones—than ever before.

Brandon Palaniuk’s Big Win at Lake Okeechobee

At the 2025 Champion Power Equipment Bassmaster Elite at Lake Okeechobee, Brandon Palaniuk demonstrated why he’s one of the best in the sport. Battling a range of environmental challenges, Palaniuk brought in a staggering 95 pounds, 4 ounces of bass to take home his sixth Elite Series trophy. But that wasn’t the only reward for his efforts.

In addition to tournament winnings, Palaniuk earned a $4,000 bonus from the Yamaha Power Pay program—a contingency program that rewards eligible anglers running Yamaha outboards. For Palaniuk, who’s long trusted the performance, fuel efficiency, and dependability of Yamaha motors, this bonus was just another benefit of running the gear he already believes in.

What Is Yamaha Power Pay?

Yamaha Power Pay is a contingency program designed to reward anglers who compete using Yamaha outboard motors. Whether you’re a full-time professional like Palaniuk or a weekend tournament warrior, this program offers real payouts for high finishes in supported events.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:

• Eligibility: Own a Yamaha outboard motor between 115 and 450 HP, purchased within the past 60 months, and registered in your name.
• Registration: Sign up for free at yamahapowerpay.com.
• Event Participation: Compete in a Yamaha Power Pay-supported tournament.
• Performance Requirement: Finish as the highest-placing registered Yamaha angler in the top 33% of the field (minimum of 40 boats).

Once registered, anglers can start earning payouts without needing to win first place, making it one of the most accessible contingency programs in tournament fishing.

Why Palaniuk Trusts Yamaha

Brandon Palaniuk has been running Yamaha outboards for years, and his loyalty isn’t just about brand preference—it’s about results. The combination of reliable performance, excellent fuel mileage, and smooth handling gives him a competitive edge, especially in challenging conditions like those at Lake Okeechobee.

In his own words, the Power Pay bonus is simply “icing on the cake.” For anglers already committed to Yamaha’s trusted performance, the Power Pay program turns an equipment decision into a potential income stream.

You Don’t Have to Be a Pro to Get Paid

One of the biggest advantages of the Yamaha Power Pay program is its inclusivity. It’s not just for Elite Series pros. Collegiate, amateur, and semi-pro anglers can all cash in, as long as they’re registered and competing in a supported event.

This opens up significant earning potential for:

• College fishing teams
• Local tournament anglers
• Regional and semi-pro competitors

Even if you don’t win the event, being the highest-placing registered Yamaha user within the top 33% can earn you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars, depending on the event.

How to Get Started with Yamaha Power Pay

If you’re running a Yamaha motor and competing in tournaments, signing up for Power Pay is a no-brainer. It’s free, easy to join, and could help you maximize your earnings without changing your setup.

To register or check if your favorite tournament trail is supported, visit yamahapowerpay.com.

There you’ll find:

• A complete list of eligible tournaments
• Payout structures by event
• The official registration form
• Frequently asked questions about the program

More Than Just a Motor

Brandon Palaniuk’s Lake Okeechobee win highlights not only his angling skill but also the importance of reliable gear and smart choices. Yamaha outboards help him perform at the highest level, and Yamaha Power Pay helps him get rewarded for doing what he loves.

Whether you’re chasing a check on the Bassmaster Elite Series or grinding out wins on your local lake, the Yamaha Power Pay program is one more way to make your passion for fishing pay off.