Pro bass angler Bob Downey explains why a Texas-rigged creature bait typically outproduces a conventional worm when fishing bass in deeper, dirty water. He then shares some key rigging details that improve performance and favor using a heavy baitcasting setup.
Downey contends that the bigger profile coupled with appendages is more visually prominent while displacing more water than smaller baits. Both add up to bass finding your presentation more easily.
TACKLE USED (retail links)
- BAIT – Reaction Innovations Man Bear Pig
- HOOK – VMC Tungsten Worm Weight, 3/8-ounce
- WEIGHT – VMC Ike Approved Heavy Duty Wide Gap Hook
- ROD – St. Croix Victory, 7’3″ Heavy, Mod-Fast
- REEL – Daiwa Tatula Elite, 8.1:1
- LINE – Sufix Advance Fluorocarbon, 17-pound
- FISH FINDER – Humminbird HELIX 12 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G4N
- SUNGLASSES – Costa Del Mar Corbina
To peg or not to peg? Downey opts not to peg so that the bait separates from the weight and hangs in the strike zone longer — this enhances the natural action of the lure while also reducing the fish throwing the bait during the fight.
A longer heavy-action casting rod aids in making longer casts so you can cover more water. In addition to casting distance, the heavy-power rod is crucial for driving hooks home at the end of those long casts. A stout setup necessitates upsizing to a heavy-duty, wide gap hook to prevent bending out on hook sets while fitting the bulky body of creature baits better than a traditional round bend.
