Selecting the right jig trailer is key to maximizing bites in different water conditions. Casey Scanlon shares his favorite soft plastic trailers and explains when to use each based on depth, water clarity, and forage type.
FEATURED TACKLE (retail links)
- TRAILER 1 – Bass Pro Shops Elite Chunk: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- TRAILER 2 – Bass Pro Shops Swim-N-Elite Chunk: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- TRAILER 3 – Bass Pro Shops XPS Crawdigy Craw: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- TRAILER 4 – Bass Pro Shops XPS Double-Tail Grub: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
BEST TRAILERS FOR SHALLOW WATER FISHING
When fishing extremely shallow waters around boat docks filled with bream and shad, Scanlon prefers a jig trailer with a gliding fall. His go-to is the Elite Chunk, featuring small flanges that add subtle action. The flat back of this trailer makes it perfect for skipping under boat docks and overhanging limbs. This trailer mimics the natural fall of the forage, making it effective whether you’re swimming the jig or letting it glide down in shallow water. Another favorite is the Swim-N-Elite Chunk. It has a smaller profile, ideal for lighter jigs. Its solid body provides a secure grip on the jig, making it suitable for fishing in heavy cover or cooler, clear water. The Elite Swimming Chunk offers a natural glide with just the right amount of action.
TOP TRAILERS FOR DEEPER WATER AND COLDER CONDITIONS
For deeper water or when mimicking a crawfish, Scanlon recommends trailers with more action. The XPS Crawdigy stands out with its thumping appendages, creating vibrations that attract fish. It provides the action needed to keep fish interested as the jig descends. The XPS Double-Tail Grub is another versatile option. It performs well in clear water with its small profile. Once water temperatures rise above 60-degrees or when fishing a little deeper, Scanlon switches to this high-action trailer. This helps maintain the fish’s interest as they follow the jig to the bottom, especially under deep boat docks.
BOAT SETUP
- BOAT – Nitro Z21 XL PRO: Check out at Nitro
- MOTOR – Mercury Pro XS 250 hp: Check out at Mercury
- TROLLING MOTOR – Garmin Force Trolling Motor: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
