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Glide baits have surged in popularity among serious bass anglers, especially in conjunction with forward-facing sonar. This pairing is a lethal combination, allowing anglers to find fish in real time and coax them into biting with the mesmerizing action of glide baits. Elite Series pro Bryan New is a well-known advocate of this tactic, offering valuable insight into how to fine-tune your glide bait game for maximum success. This guide will explore the intricacies of glide baits, forward-facing sonar, and Bryan New’s proven techniques.

Understanding Glide Baits and Forward-Facing Sonar

What Are Glide Baits, and How Do They Work?

Glide baits are a type of swimbait designed to mimic the natural swimming action of large baitfish. Unlike multi-jointed swimbaits that have a rapid, repetitive motion, glide baits feature a single-jointed body that produces a wide, sweeping side-to-side action. This slow, deliberate movement triggers strikes from big, often wary bass that are reluctant to hit faster-moving lures.

One of the key advantages of glide baits is their ability to stay in the strike zone longer. Because they glide in an exaggerated arc rather than a straight line, they present a tantalizing target that’s difficult for bass to resist. Pausing between retrieves allows the bait to suspend momentarily, mimicking a wounded fish—an irresistible signal to opportunistic predators.

Overview of Forward-Facing Sonar Technology

Forward-facing sonar (such as Garmin LiveScope, Lowrance ActiveTarget, and Humminbird MEGA Live) has transformed how anglers locate and target fish. Unlike traditional sonar that only shows what’s beneath the boat, forward-facing sonar offers a real-time view of what’s happening in front of you. This allows anglers to visually track individual fish and even watch how they react to a lure in real time.

When paired with a glide bait, forward-facing sonar helps anglers maintain the right presentation and depth, making it possible to adjust their approach on the fly. The ability to observe how fish are responding—whether they’re curious, neutral, or actively feeding—provides invaluable feedback for fine-tuning your technique.

Bryan New’s Techniques for Effective Glide Bait Use

Elite Series pro Bryan New has been vocal about his success using glide baits with forward-facing sonar, emphasizing precision and adaptability. Here’s a breakdown of his go-to tactics:

Using Cylinder-Style Drop Shot Weights

One of Bryan New’s signature techniques involves adding cylinder-style drop shot weights to his glide bait setup. These weights help him maintain precise depth control, especially when targeting suspended bass. By attaching a small, removable weight near the head of the glide bait, New ensures that the lure stays in the desired strike zone, whether he’s fishing over submerged structure or chasing open-water schools.

This approach is particularly useful in deeper water, where glide baits naturally tend to rise during the retrieve. The added weight counters this buoyancy, allowing for a more consistent presentation and reducing the likelihood of the bait drifting too high above the fish.

Modifications for Better Bait Depth Control

In addition to using weights, Bryan New also makes subtle modifications to his glide baits to improve their performance. For example, he may shave down the tail slightly to alter the bait’s glide distance or tweak the hook placement to fine-tune the lure’s balance.

These small changes can make a big difference, especially when dealing with finicky bass that follow but don’t commit. Adjusting the action to create a tighter or wider glide can trigger more aggressive strikes, particularly when fish are suspended and closely watching the bait’s movement.

Additional Tips for Mastering Glide Bait Fishing

Choosing the Right Bait

While there are countless glide baits on the market, Bryan New often relies on the SPRO KGB Chad Shad for its realistic profile and smooth gliding action. This bait stands out because of its lifelike design, which closely resembles large forage species like gizzard shad—a primary food source for big bass.

When selecting a glide bait, consider the forage base in your local waters. Match the size, color, and profile of the bait to what the bass are feeding on, whether it’s shad, bluegill, or even trout.

Adapting to Different Water Conditions

Water clarity plays a huge role in glide bait success. Glide baits are most effective in clear to moderately stained water, where their visual appeal can entice fish from a distance. In murkier water, opt for baits with added flash or a more pronounced side-to-side action to help bass locate them more easily.

Additionally, wind and current can influence the action of your glide bait. In windy conditions, it’s important to use slightly heavier gear or weights to maintain better control and prevent the bait from being pushed off course.

Final Tips from the Pros

One of the most important lessons Bryan New emphasizes is the value of experimentation. Every day on the water is different, and factors such as weather, water temperature, and bass behavior can all influence how glide baits perform. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments—whether it’s adding or removing weights, altering the retrieve speed, or even changing the bait entirely.

For those just starting out, Bryan recommends keeping things simple: start with a well-balanced glide bait, practice your retrieves, and learn to read your sonar. As you gain experience, you can begin experimenting with more advanced techniques like adding weights or customizing baits.

Conclusion

Using glide baits in conjunction with forward-facing sonar is a game-changing tactic that can help anglers target big bass with precision. Thanks to pros like Bryan New, we have a deeper understanding of how to fine-tune this approach for real-world success. Whether it’s adding cylinder-style weights, choosing the right glide bait, or adapting to varying conditions, mastering these techniques can elevate your fishing game to new heights.

With tools like forward-facing sonar offering unprecedented insight into fish behavior, glide bait fishing has become a truly interactive experience. So next time you’re on the water, give Bryan New’s techniques a try—you just might find yourself hooking into the fish of a lifetime.

Whether you’re shopping for seasoned pros or hobbyists, these gifts will elevate their fishing game and keep them comfortable during those long days on the water. Here’s a breakdown of some perfect presents for the fishing enthusiast in your life:

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AFTCO Reaper Sweatshirt

The AFTCO Reaper is perfect for anglers who need both warmth and stealth during those chilly early mornings or long days on the water.This isn’t your average sweatshirt! The AFTCO Reaper features ultra-soft 100% polyester microfleece fabric that will keep any fisherman cozy in cold weather. What sets it apart is its built-in face mask and neck warmer, perfect for protecting against the wind. With laser-cut underarm ventilation, quiet pocket closures, and a hood anchoring system, it’s designed with serious fishing performance in mind. Ideal for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors, whether on the lake or out at sea.

Do-It Molds Flash Series Skirts

The Do-It Molds Flash Series Skirts are great for anglers who love customizing their jigs for the perfect presentation. These Flash Series Skirts from Do-It Molds are a must-have for any fisherman who wants to add extra flash to their lures. With pre-banded colors and Flashabou™ strands, these skirts make every jig more attractive to fish. Whether it’s for swim jigs, flipping jigs, or spinnerbaits, the added flash can help make all the difference in attracting fish. A great stocking stuffer for any fisherman who loves to tweak and fine-tune their tackle box.

Sunline Almight Sinking Braided Line

If you’re looking for a gift that will improve an angler’s performance, Sunline’s Almight Sinking Braided Line is an excellent choice. This unique braided line has a 50% higher specific gravity than traditional braids, helping to reduce line drift and bow caused by wind, offering better lure control and bite detection. Available in two colors for different water conditions (pink for visibility or olive for stealth), this is an ideal addition to any fisherman’s gear—especially those who fish in deep water with spinning reels and finesse tactics.

Sunline Camo Line Storage Bag

This is the ideal gift for the organized angler who needs a reliable, protective way to store multiple fishing lines. Keeping fishing line organized and protected is key, and this Camo Line Storage Bag from Sunline is a top pick. The padded bag protects lines from damage and harmful UV rays, ensuring longer-lasting performance. With adjustable dividers and elastic bands for securing bulk spools, it helps keep everything tidy, even on the roughest fishing trips.

Denali Kovert Tungsten Weights

Tungsten is known for its high density and sensitivity, and Denali’s Kovert Tungsten weights take it to the next level. With a smooth, polished finish that won’t fray your line and options for both flipping and drop shot weights, these are a must-have for bass anglers. The ultra-sensitive nature of tungsten lets you feel even the slightest nibbles, which can make all the difference on the water.

Gamakatsu G-Case 3000

Do you need a durable, customizable tackle storage solution?  The Gamakatsu G-Case 3000 is a premium tackle box designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Made from durable plastic, it features customizable dividers, a hinged lid that creates a work surface, and a large handle for easy transport. It’s a top-tier storage solution that helps keep lures, hooks, and terminal tackle organized and easily accessible.

SPRO RkCrawler Crankbait Casting Rod

Anglers looking for a top-tier rod designed for precision casting need not look any further! For the serious angler, the SPRO RkCrawler Crankbait Casting Rod is a standout. Its 7’2″ medium action design is ideal for crankbaits, offering incredible sensitivity and accuracy. The Fuji components ensure high durability, while the full cork grip provides a comfortable casting experience. This rod is built to perform whether you’re fishing from a boat or along the shore. A fantastic gift for those who appreciate quality gear.

Gift Cards for Fishing Gear

The angler who has everything but could use a personalized shopping experience, can always use a gift card from one of their favorite brands.  If you’re unsure of what specific item to buy or if you want the recipient to choose their own gear, consider a gift card to their favorite outdoor or fishing retailer. This allows them to pick out exactly what they need, whether it’s a new rod, tackle, or accessories. Many outdoor stores offer gift cards in a variety of denominations, making it a flexible and thoughtful gift.

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Whether you’re buying for a hardcore angler who loves high-performance gear or a casual fisherman who enjoys a relaxing day on the water, there’s something in this guide that will make their holiday special. From functional gifts like the AFTCO Reaper Sweatshirt and Sunline ALMIGHT line to thoughtful accessories like the Gamakatsu G-Case, or the SPRO RkCrawler Crankbait Rod, these items are sure to enhance any angler’s experience.

Happy fishing and happy holidays!

We are one week away from the 8^th stop of the Bassmaster Elite Series on Lake Champlain in Plattsburgh, New York. This is the beginning of the northern swing that consists of the final two Elite Series tournaments of the season. The Elites have visited Plattsburgh and Lake Champlain 4 times in the last 7 seasons. Each time it seems like there is a mix between largemouth and smallmouth that play a role. Lake Champlain is such a versatile fishery where an angler can choose from many different techniques to get the job done. We will without a doubt see anglers have success with finesse presentations like drop shots, ned rigs, neko rigs, and Damiki/strolling rigs, but we could also see more power fishing techniques play a role such as topwater baits, jerkbaits, and flipping and pitching jigs/creature baits. We will suggest two anglers per bucket based on their strengths, momentum, tournament history on Lake Champlain, and more!

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We are one week away from the 6^th stop of the Bassmaster Elite Series on Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama. The last time the Elite Series has visited this Tennessee River impoundment was in late April/early May of 2016. This will be a different fishery this time around as many of the bigger schools of bass will be on deep offshore structure. We will see anglers have success with lures such as deep diving crankbaits, big worms and jigs, drop shots, swimbaits, spoons, and hair jigs. And of course, we will most likely see the “jig head/minnow” with forward facing sonar play a role for suspended bass. We will suggest two anglers per bucket based on their strengths, momentum, tournament history on Tennessee River impoundments, and more! Let’s dive into it! Read more