One of my favorite patterns is fishing laydowns over or
near dropoffs. Bass love to congregate in the sunken branches and wait for
their next meal to swim by. While I’ve been known to pitch a single-bladed
Colorado spinnerbait, my bait of choice is a jig. Its compact size, coupled
with a brush guard, allows me to easily work it around the branches and
trunks… searching out the big ones!
My tackle choice is a 7’0” medium-heavy action
CastAway7M HG40 rod, and a Quantum Energy 6.3:1 reel with 17lb. green
Trilene Sensation line. While black/blue is always a “go to” jig color
(especially in stained water), I will throw other colors depending on the
time of year. In the spring, or in clearer water, I will pick pumpkinseed
or green pumpkin… something a little more natural looking. However, most of
the time, I throw basic black.
Sometimes adding a color variation to the jig head, or
even touching up the worn-off color can make a big difference. I use a
heat-activated powder paint that is quick and easy to use – even while on
the boat. Simply heat the jig with a match or lighter, dip it into the jar
of your chosen color, and then dip it in the water. No more waiting for
paint to dry! They come in so many colors (including fluorescent varieties)
that I can customize my jig to either “match the hatch,” or draw more
attention to it.
I temper the fall rate by varying the type and size of
the trailer. In the spring and late fall, I like an Uncle Josh’s #11.
There’s something about a bait with a more realistic taste and texture that
helps the bass hold the bait a little longer… allowing for a better hookset.
The pork also helps to s-l-o-w down the jig’s fall, keeping it in the strike
zone longer. In the summer, I use plastic trailers. For a faster fall and
more lifelike action, I use Gambler’s Guido’s Baby Originalä
and Guido’s Originalä in
pumpkinseed and black blue glitter.
I position my Ranger 518 DVX in front of the laydown,
staying at least two feet away. I methodically pitch my bait around the tree
trunk and branches. Initially, I will work from the tips of the branches
inward. However, if that isn’t drawing strikes, I will work from the inside
out. Sometimes that first pitch is the only chance you have to get
bit. It the water is really clear or the bass are spooky, additional
pitches might be unproductive. BUT, if they are there and actively feeding,
you’ll know it!
Tie on a jig the next time you find some laydowns, and
work on your pitching to ensure a stealth entry… and hang on tight!