Targeting bass using forward facing sonar and a minnow style bait has quickly become an extremely productive winter tactic. Berkley recently released the PowerBait Power Switch just in time to capitalize on this action packed bite. Meant to imitate a small baitfish, the Berkley PowerBait Power Switch is perfect for targeting suspended fish feeding on bait. Berkley created this unique bait by employing a few innovative features that are sure to excite the entire bass fishing community.
POWER SWITCH BUILD
The Berkley Power Switch was designed to be used in conjunction with forward facing sonar. This bait features a soft body minnow profile with an internal hook and weighing system. This design allows for a realistic profile while increasing your baits durability. I’ve been using this bait for around a month now, and I’ve caught upwards of 20 bass before having to change or modify my bait. This is a significant increase from traditional jig and minnow style baits, saving you a ton of time on the water.
The Power Switch has a subtle action and realistic profile perfect for tricking finicky bass. This pre-rigged design is great for concealing your jig head in clear water conditions. This bait is available in all standard, HD Tru and holographic “wizard” colors. The Power Switch comes in a variety of weights and sizes perfect for targeting fish at any depth range. This bait also features a super sharp Fusion 19 Hook, great for delivering consistent hook penetration on light tackle.
POWER SWITCH APPLICATIONS
The Berkley Power Switch is an extremely versatile bait that can be used anywhere you use forward facing sonar. Throwing this bait around brush piles, points and bait balls are all productive ways to fish this bait. While targeting various types of cover can be a productive way to fish the Power Switch, I prefer targeting specific fish suspended around bait.
Targeting specific fish using the PowerBait Power Switch is a great way to get them to react. These suspended fish often relate to bait, making pinch points and other locations baitfish congregate a high percentage location to check. I’ve found that targeting groups of bass produce a more consistent bite, while individual fish are harder to catch but often bigger in size. Targeting these fish using forward facing sonar and the Power Switch is extremely simple once you understand how to fish this bait.
Making long casts at groups of bass is the best way to fish this bait. Targeting fish that are 40 to 80 feet away is the perfect range for getting them to react. I like to throw this bait in front of the fish, allowing it to fall right in front of their face. I will then vary my retrieve based on how the fish react, implementing a mix of erratic twitches. Keeping this bait above the fishes head is crucial for getting them to commit. These fish will often become spooked of the boat, so casting at them before they get to close is essential.
POWER SWITCH SETUP
Another essential component to catching fish on the Power Switch is using light line. Light line allows for a realistic profile as well as increased action thanks to the lines thin diameter. Anything from 8 to 12-pound fluorocarbon is the ideal size depending on the amount of cover present. One of my go to fluorocarbons for this technique is the Seaguar Tatsu Fluorocarbon Line.
I often throw the 3/8 and 1/2-ounce versions of this bait in order to reach fish at faster speeds. When throwing the Berkley Power Switch, I typically use a spinning setup. This allows for accurate lure placement and increased control when trying to efficiently cast at moving fish. I prefer a larger reel with a 3000 sized spool. This larger spool allows for a faster retreive, which helps you quickly correct inaccurate casts. One of my go to reels is for this application is the Shimano Sustain FJ C3000HG.
For a rod, I prefer a 7-foot Medium action with a parabolic tip. This heavier action helps bury the hook point, while the softer tip keeps you from breaking off on light line. I’ve also found that a shorter length rod is ideal for this technique. Anything in the 7-foot range allows for accurate casts while providing plenty of leverage when fighting fish back to the boat. One of my go to rods for this technique is the 7-foot Medium action Abu Garcia Zenon Spinning Rod.
The Berkley PowerBait Power Switch is the perfect tool for efficiently targeting suspended bass feeding on bait. This lure’s pre-rigged profile and subtle action make it a great choice for targeting finicky bass in clear water. Not only is this bait extremely realistic, but it’s also far more durable than your traditional jig and minnow style bait. If you’re looking for a hot new forward facing sonar lure, the Berkley PowerBait Power Switch is worth a look.
