Lipless crankbaits are among the most versatile baits in your box and continue to perform excellently for bass during the winter months (even ice fishing). Oklahoma-based Luke Palmer has come to rely on rattle baits to locate and milk schools of wintering bass relating to isolated grass on main lake points and flats.
Palmer stresses the need to experiment with different retrieves, bait colors, sizes, and even line diameter to dial in the bite. As with most crankbait fishing, making contact with cover is a powerful trigger. Palmer explains how to contact the grass, then engage the bait to trigger reaction strikes from lethargic bass.
TACKLE USED
- Booyah Hard Knocker Lipless Crankbait, 1/2-ounce, color – Rayburn Red
- Abu Garcia IKE Delay Casting Rod 7’3″ Medium
- Abu Garcia REVO MGX Casting Reel
- Sunline Shooter Fluorocarbon Line, 14lb
