Harness-style soft swimbaits have gained a loyal following thanks to their broad fish-catching appeal and ability to target a bigger class of bass. John Crews provides a detailed look at the SPRO Megalojohn and what sets it apart in the harness-swimbait category. He also shares his favorite rod, reel, and line setup for the best performance.
TACKLE LISTING (retail links)
- SWIMBAIT – SPRO Megalojohn Swimbait: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- ROD – Cashion John Crews ICON Series Casting Rod, 7’11” Medium Heavy – Moderate Fast: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- REEL – Daiwa ZILLION TW HD: Check out at Daiwa
- LINE – Sunline Shooter Fluorocarbon, 16-, 18- or 20-pound: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
SPRO MEGALOJOHN DESIGN OVERVIEW
The Megalojohn distinguishes itself from its predecessors, like the Megabass MAGDRAFT, through its deeper running depth, tail frequency, and profile. At 6 inches long and weighing 1.75 ounces, the Megalojohn is beefy and built for big fish. Crews highlights the built-in keel weight for running straight and deeper compared to similar baits. Expect this swimbait to reach depths of 4 to 7 feet, making it ideal for forward-facing sonar applications and targeting deeper fish in general.
DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF THE MEGALOJOHN
The Megalojohn’s hard head shake and distinct thump set it apart. The bait comes equipped with a premium SPRO power swivel and a #2 Gamakatsu treble hook. Crews discuss the optional screw-in magnet for the belly and how to use it without it.
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS AND USAGE TIPS
Crews suggests pairing the Megalojohn with a larger framed reel, such as a 150 or 200 size for the best performance. A 7.3:1 gear ratio reel strikes the perfect balance between speed and control. This setup provides immediate tail engagement and the right blend of speed and winching power. Use a premium fluorocarbon line in the 16-, 18-, or 20-pound range.
MEGALOJOHN STORAGE
Crews concludes with a pro tip on storage – the Megalojohn ships in a shaped clamshell-style package that’s great for bait storage when not in use. Maintaining the original shape ensures consistent body shape and running, use after use.
Whether targeting bass around shallow water cover, combing mid-depth flats or edges, or sharp-shooting with forward-facing sonar, the Megalojohn fills some key niches in the swimbait enthusiast’s lineup.
