As the sun rose over the lake this morning, the cool spring air hinted at the excitement of the day ahead. I knew this was the time – the bass would be waking from their winter slumber and actively pursuing any bait that swam into their view. While some anglers prefer more passive baits like plastics or jigs when fishing is slower, I like to start each new season with my favorite aggressive lure – the spinner bait.
There’s just something thrilling about casting that flashing, wobbling bait out and winding it back with an erratic retrieve, never knowing when a big largemouth might crush it. And more often than not when fishing a spinnerbait, I’m rewarded with a vicious strike that gives any fisherman a rush.
In this post, I’ll share my best tips for how to tie a spinner bait and employ strategies that will have even weary, off-season bass chasing down your lure like their next meal.
Tools and Materials You Will Need to Tie a Spinner Bait
- Fishing rod and reel
- Spinnerbait (of course!)
- Scissors or line cutters
- Pliers (optional)
- Fishing line
- Swivel (optional, but highly recommended)
- Split rings (optional)
Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Tie a Spinner Bait
Step 1: Choose Your Spinner Bait
When it comes to spinnerbaits, there are countless options available. They come in all sizes, weights, blade shapes, and colors. While having a variety of spinner baits in your tackle box is always a good idea if you’re new to using them or just looking for an all-around bait, it’s best to start with a 3/8 ounce spinnerbait in a white or chartreuse color.
Step 2: Attach the Swivel (Optional)
The swivel is an optional but highly recommended addition when tying on a spinnerbait. It helps prevent line twists and also allows for more natural movement of the bait in the water. To attach the swivel, simply tie it to the end of your fishing line using a clinch knot or double uni knot. While not necessary, adding a split ring between the swivel and spinnerbait can also help enhance its movement.
Step 3: Tie on the Spinner Bait
To tie on the spinnerbait, use either a clinch knot or an improved clinch knot. These are both strong knot options that will secure your bait to the line. If you’re using a swivel, attach the spinnerbait to the other end of the swivel using the same knot. Make sure to cinch down on the knot tightly to prevent slippage. Make sure the eye of the hook is at a 90-degree angle to your fishing line for optimal movement.
Step 4: Trim the Excess Line and Add a Trailer Hook (Optional)
Once you have your spinnerbait tied on, trim any excess line that may be hanging off the knot. You can also add a trailer hook if desired, although some spinnerbaits come with one already attached. Simply attach the trailer hook to the bend of the spinnerbait’s main hook using a small split ring or attach it directly to the eye of the hook if there is room. Make sure the trailer hook is facing upward to increase your chances of a hookup when a fish strikes.
Step 5: Test and Adjust
Before casting out your newly tied spinnerbait, give it a few test casts in open water to make sure everything is secure and in working order. If you notice any issues, make adjustments as needed before starting your fishing day. Make sure the blades are spinning freely and the bait is tracking straight.
Following these simple guidelines will ensure that your spinnerbait is properly tied and ready to entice that hungry bass. Keep in mind, however, that different situations may call for slight variations in how you tie on a spinner bait, such as using a heavier bait or adding a trailer hook. Always be open to experimenting and don’t be afraid to switch things up if the fish aren’t biting. Happy fishing!
Additional Tips and Tricks to Tie a Spinner Bait
1. If you are fishing in an area with heavy cover, consider using a trailer hook on your spinner bait. This will increase your chances of hooking onto fish that may strike at the end of the bait.
2. To add more flash and attractant to your spinner bait, try using different colored or patterned skirts. You can also experiment with adding small plastic trailers or even live bait to the hook.
3. When tying on your spinnerbait, make sure to tightly secure the knot and trim any excess line. A loose or bulky knot can affect the action of your bait in the water and decrease your chances of getting a bite.
4. It’s important to vary your retrieval speed when using a spinner bait. Sometimes a slow, steady retrieve will work best while other times a faster, erratic retrieve will entice more bites.
5. Consider using a leader when fishing with spinner baits in clear water or areas with heavy cover. This will help prevent the fish from seeing your line and potentially spooking them.
6. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sizes and styles of spinnerbaits. Sometimes a smaller bait will be more effective in certain conditions while a larger one may work better in others.
7. When fishing with spinner baits, pay attention to the type of cover and structure you are targeting. Different types of spinnerbaits work better in specific environments, so it’s important to match your bait accordingly.
8. If you’re not having any luck with traditional spinner bait techniques, try adding a trailer hook or using a different retrieve method such as a slow roll or stop-and-go retrieve.
9. As with any fishing technique, it’s important to be patient and observe the behavior of the fish and their surroundings. This will help you determine the best approach for using your spinner bait.
10. Remember to always check your local fishing regulations before heading out, as some areas may have specific rules and restrictions regarding the use of spinnerbaits.
Following these tips and tricks, along with proper technique and a bit of patience, will greatly increase your chances of success when tying a spinner bait. So next time you head out to the water, make sure to give this versatile and effective lure a try! Happy fishing!
Things You Should Consider to Tie a Spinner Bait
1. The first and most important thing to consider when tying a spinner bait is the type of water you will be fishing in. The water’s clarity, temperature, and depth can all affect the type of knot you should use.
2. Another factor to keep in mind is the size and weight of your spinner bait. Depending on its size and weight, you may need a stronger or more secure knot to ensure it doesn’t come loose while fishing.
3. The type of line you are using is also crucial. Spinner baits are typically used with monofilament or fluorocarbon lines, which have different properties and require different knots.
4. When tying your spinnerbait, make sure to moisten the knot with water before tightening it. This will help prevent friction and ensure the knot cinches smoothly.
5. It’s also important to consider the size of your hook when tying a spinner bait. A larger hook may require a different type of knot than a smaller one.
6. Experiment with different knots and techniques to see which works best for you and the type of fish you are targeting. Some popular knots for tying spinner baits include the Palomar knot, Trilene knot, and improved clinch knot.
7. Practice makes perfect, so be patient and take your time when tying a spinner bait. It may seem daunting at first, but with practice, you’ll become an expert in no time.
8. Keep in mind that the way you tie your spinner bait can also affect its action in the water. Adjusting the knot placement and tightness can change how the bait moves, which can be crucial in attracting fish.
Following these considerations will help you tie a successful and secure spinner bait, increasing your chances of catching fish. Remember to always double-check your knots before heading out onto the water, and don’t be afraid to try new techniques to see what works best for you. Happy fishing!
Conclusion
Now that you have learned how to tie a spinner bait, the fishing world is your oyster! With this new skill, you’ll be able to confidently head out onto any body of water and have a successful day on the water. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, mastering the art of tying a spinner bait is an important skill to have in your fishing arsenal.
Not only does it give you more versatility and control over your bait presentation, but it also allows you to fine-tune it based on various conditions. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and play around with different spinner baits until you find what works best for you.