In this video, professional angler Steven Browning shares his expertise in selecting the right finesse fishing weights. Browning emphasizes choosing the appropriate weight, whether fishing a drop shot or shaky head, to ensure natural bait presentation and maximize your fishing success.
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WHY FINESSE FISHING WEIGHTS MATTER
Selecting the correct finesse fishing weight is crucial for maintaining the natural action of your bait. The whole point of finesse fishing is presenting the fish with an ultra-natural presentation. A light weight allows finesse plastics to move as naturally as possible in the water, but keep in mind, you need enough weight to stay in contact with your soft plastic.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT WEIGHT
Browning shares a valuable tip from early in his career: adjust your weight based on wind conditions. The general rule is:
- Lighter wind: Use lighter weights.
- Heavier wind: Use heavier weights.
PRACTICAL EXAMPLES ON THE WATER
During a fishing trip, Browning experimented with different weights to find the best fit for the day’s conditions:
- 1/8 ounce: Too light, causing the bait to drift.
- 1/4 ounce: Too heavy, reducing the natural action of the bait and sensitivity.
- 3/16 ounce: The perfect balance, generating bites and maintaining control.
ADJUSTING TO CONDITIONS
Browning emphasizes the need to adapt to changing wind conditions. By carefully selecting your finesse fishing weight, you can ensure better bait presentation and increase your chances of catching fish.
