Glide Bait for Gals: Mastering the Art of Big Bass Fishing

Hey there, fellow anglers! Glide baits are making waves across the angling scene, and it's about time we dive in. If you've ever heard a big fish tale about these legendary lures, it's no longer just lore from the West Coast—it's a reality ready to be hooked by women everywhere.

From Niche to Nationwide

Once the secret weapon of West Coast bass anglers, giant glide baits are finding their way into tackle boxes across the country. They're not only affordable now but are also becoming a go-to for targeting those giant bass we dream about. With brands pushing glide bait costs into manageable ranges and the likes of SPRO introducing innovative options like the three-in-one K-Rig, there's no stopping this trend.

The Setup Every Woman Needs

To master the glide bait game, your gear has to be just right. Forget about the typical flipping rod—invest in a technique-specific setup. As champion angler Carl Jocumsen shares, a dedicated glide bait setup is non-negotiable if you don’t want to fish all day with no bites or worse—lose the ones you do get. For Jocumsen, it's a 7-foot, 10-inch MillerRods Dream Freak Extra-Heavy, paired with a Shimano TranX 300 and 22-pound test Sunline Shooter. Remember, the right setup equals confidence on the water.

Choosing and Using Glide Baits

Having the right bait size is crucial for making a splash—literally! Jocumsen recommends starting with a 6- to 7-inch lure, ensuring it's big enough to make waves but not too oversized to scare the bass away. The Storm Arashi Glide is a favorite, packing a punch without packing your wallet. After all, it's about the shape and action, not the $100 price tag.

Water Color and Technique

Our environment impacts more than we might realize. Glide baits are effective in both clear and muddy waters, but each requires its strategy. Transparency dictates your color choice—you want more subtle hues for clear waters and brighter ones like pearl and bone for dirtier lakes.

The Rhythm of the Retrieve

One of the keys to success is varying your retrieve. Jocumsen suggests starting with a slow and lumbering motion, but don't shy away from chopping the bait for a more aggressive approach. In clear water, speed things up; in murkier spots, slow down. This variation ensures your bait appears as an appetizing target to bass.

Landing the Big One

Once hooked, it's all about confidence and strong equipment. Glide baits give the fish leverage to escape if you’re not quick, so crank those reels and bring your catch home fast. An overextended battle increases the risk of losing your fish—let's not let that happen to us!

Finally, remember that mastering glide baits doesn't happen overnight. It requires patience, practice, and perhaps a bit of luck. So gear up, get out there, and let's see what these glide baits can do for us, ladies!

Happy fishing, and may the big bass bounty be yours!

Read more from Shaye Baker on Field & Stream

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