Learn the best large mouth bass bait to land a monster catch. From soft plastics to topwater lures, we’ve got you covered with these proven and lures.
Soft Plastics for Large Mouth Bass
Soft plastics are a staple in every bass angler’s tackle box, and for good reason. They’re versatile, durable, and can be used to mimic a wide range of prey that large mouth bass love to feed on. In this section, we’ll dive into the world of soft plastics and explore three popular types that can help you land more bass.
Curly Tail Grubs
Curly tail grubs are a classic soft plastic lure that have been catching bass for decades. These grubs feature a curly, tail-like appendage that creates a tantalizing action in the water, driving bass wild. The curly tail grub’s ability to mimic a fleeing baitfish or injured prey makes it a go-to lure for many bass anglers. Try rigging a curly tail grub on a jighead or spinnerbait to create a deadly combination.
Plastic Worms
Plastic worms are another popular soft plastic lure that can be used to catch large mouth bass. These worms come in a variety of colors, sizes, and textures, making them incredibly versatile. Rig a plastic worm on a Texas rig, Carolina rig, or weightless, and you’ve got a lure that can be used to target bass in a wide range of habitats. From shallow grass beds to deep structure, plastic worms are a reliable choice for bass anglers.
Lizards and Salamanders
Lizards and salamanders are often overlooked in favor of more traditional soft plastic lures, but they can be incredibly effective for catching large mouth bass. These lures mimic the real deal, with intricate details and realistic colors that drive bass crazy. Try using a lizard or salamander on a Texas rig or jighead, and you may be surprised at the size and quantity of bass you can catch.
Crankbaits for Large Mouth Bass
When it comes to catching large mouth bass, crankbaits are a favorite among anglers. These versatile lures can be used to target bass at various depths, from the shallow waters to the deep structures. But what makes crankbaits so effective, and how can you choose the right one for your fishing trip?
Shallow Diving Crankbaits
Shallow diving crankbaits are perfect for targeting bass in the shallower waters, usually between 0-5 feet deep. These lures are designed to dive quickly and dig into the bottom, making them ideal for fishing in areas with submerged structures like rocks, weed beds, or sunken logs. When using shallow diving crankbaits, remember to retrieve them slowly and steadily, allowing the lure to make contact with the bottom. This will help you trigger strikes from bass hiding in these areas.
Deep Diving Crankbaits
On the other hand, deep diving crankbaits are designed to reach deeper structures, often between 10-20 feet deep. These lures are typically larger and heavier, with a more aggressive action that imitates a fleeing baitfish. When using deep diving crankbaits, try to target areas with steep drop-offs, submerged humps, or other underwater structures that bass tend to congregate around. Make sure to vary your retrieve, using a combination of slow and fast movements to entice a reaction strike.
Suspending Crankbaits
Suspending crankbaits are a unique breed of crankbaits that don’t dive as deep as other models. Instead, they suspend in the water column, often around 5-10 feet deep, waiting for an unsuspecting bass to swim by. These lures are perfect for targeting suspended bass, which can be a challenging but rewarding experience. When using suspending crankbaits, try to fish them in areas with a lot of open water, such as around structure-free banks or in the middle of lakes. Use a slow and steady retrieve, and be prepared for that explosive strike!
Topwater Lures for Large Mouth Bass
Topwater lures are one of the most thrilling ways to catch large mouth bass. There’s something electrifying about watching a bass explode out of the water to ambush your lure. In this section, we’ll dive into the world of topwater lures, exploring the different types and techniques to help you land more bass.
Poppers and Chuggers
Poppers and chuggers are two of the most popular topwater lure styles. So, what’s the difference? Poppers are typically smaller, cup-faced lures that make a “popping” sound when retrieved. They’re perfect for attracting bass in shallow waters, say, around lily pads or near submerged structures. On the other hand, chuggers are larger, with a more aggressive action that creates a “chugging” or “gurgling” sound. These lures are ideal for covering larger areas and can be used in both shallow and deeper waters. When using poppers or chuggers, try to impart a gentle, intermittent action to mimic the natural movement of a injured baitfish or struggling insect.
Spooks and Walk-the-Dog Baits
Spooks and walk-the-dog baits are another type of topwater lure that can be incredibly effective for large mouth bass. These lures are typically longer and more slender, with a weighted tail that creates a zigzag or “walk-the-dog” motion when retrieved. This action imitates the natural movement of a fleeing baitfish, making it irresistible to large mouth bass. To get the most out of spooks and walk-the-dog baits, try using a steady, medium-paced retrieve, and be prepared for some serious aerial action!
Frogs and Mice
Frogs and mice lures are the last but not least in our topwater arsenal. These lures are designed to mimic the movement of amphibians or small rodents, often incorporating a weedless design that allows them to be fished in thick vegetation. When using frogs and mice, try using a slow, gentle retrieve, and be prepared to pause your lure occasionally to allow the bass to catch up. Remember, large mouth bass are ambush predators, so be prepared for a strike at any moment!
Jigs for Large Mouth Bass
When it comes to catching large mouth bass, jigs are an essential addition to any angler’s tackle box. These versatile lures can be used to target bass in various environments and conditions, making them a staple in many bass fishermen’s arsenals.
Bass Jigs with Curry Trailer
One of the most popular jig setups for large mouth bass is the bass jig with a curry trailer. This combination is particularly effective for targeting bass in structures such as rocks, weed beds, and sunken logs. The curry trailer adds a tantalizing fluttering action to the jig, making it almost irresistible to curious bass. When using this setup, try casting the jig into the desired structure and allowing it to settle before slowly retrieving it. The curry trailer will create a enticing commotion, enticing bass to strike.
Swimbaits and Jigging Spoons
Swimbaits and jigging spoons are another type of jig that can be used to target large mouth bass. These lures are designed to mimic injured baitfish, which are a staple in a bass’s diet. Swimbaits are particularly effective in open water, where bass are more likely to roam in search of food. Jigging spoons, on the other hand, are better suited for targeting bass in deeper structures such as drop-offs and humps. Both of these lures can be used to create a reaction strike, where the bass attacks the lure out of instinct rather than hunger.
Football Jigs and Chunk Trailers
Football jigs and chunk trailers are a deadly combination for targeting large mouth bass in heavy cover. The football jig’s weighted design allows it to penetrate dense vegetation, making it perfect for targeting bass in weed-choked areas. The chunk trailer adds a enticing chunky action to the jig, making it almost irresistible to bass hiding in the thick stuff. When using this setup, try casting the jig into the heart of the cover and slowly retrieving it, allowing the chunk trailer to do its magic.
Live and Cut Bait for Large Mouth Bass
When it comes to catching large mouth bass, live and cut bait can be incredibly effective. Not only do they offer a tempting presentation, but they also provide a natural scent and taste that can drive bass wild. In this section, we’ll dive into the world of live and cut bait, exploring the best options for enticing large mouth bass.
Live baitfish and Minnows
Live baitfish and minnows are a staple in many bass anglers’ arsenals. And for good reason – they’re a natural food source for large mouth bass, providing a tantalizing meal that’s hard to resist. When using live baitfish or minnows, it’s essential to present them in a natural way. This can be achieved by using a float rig or a split shot rig, allowing the bait to swim freely and naturally. It’s also crucial to choose the right size and species of baitfish or minnow, as different sizes and species can attract different sizes and ages of bass.
Nightcrawlers and Red Worms
Nightcrawlers and red worms are another popular choice for large mouth bass. These soft-bodied baits are often used on the bottom or suspended under a float, and their wriggling motion can drive bass crazy. One of the significant advantages of using nightcrawlers and red worms is their ability to attract bass in a variety of water conditions. They’re particularly effective in stained or murky water, where bass rely more heavily on their sense of smell. When using nightcrawlers or red worms, be sure to use a hook that’s large enough to accommodate the bait, and don’t be afraid to add a bit of scent or flavor to increase their appeal.
Crayfish and Leeches
Crayfish and leeches are often overlooked as bait options, but they can be deadly for large mouth bass. Crayfish, in particular, are a natural food source for bass, and their claws and antennae can provide a seductive motion that’s hard to resist. Leeches, on the other hand, offer a slimy, protein-rich snack that bass find irresistible. When using crayfish or leeches, it’s essential to rig them correctly, using a hook that allows them to move naturally and freely. Don’t be afraid to add a bit of weight to get them to the bottom quickly, and be prepared for a battle – large mouth bass can put up quite a fight when hooked on crayfish or leeches!
