There is an idea in the angling world that you need large lures to catch large fish. This may prove effective for spring and fall, but during the summer doldrums you may have to modify your tactics to bring fish to the boat. Instead of going larger, think smaller when the fish aren’t biting.
Ultra-light fishing is an oft-overlooked tactic that can prevent you from getting skunked the next time you are on the water. There is definitely skill involved when hooking a nice sized largemouth on lighter equipment.
So what do you need? For starters, you\’ll need a shorter rod. Most ultra-light fishing rods range in size from four feet six inches to five feet six inches. The shorter rods are necessary to accommodate lighter line and smaller reels. You will have greater success on the water if your equipment is matched and well balanced. The small guides on these shorter rods restrict heavy the passage of heavier lines (8+ pound test).
Smaller reels are required for ultra-light fishing as well. An ultra-light fishing reel typically holds no more than 100 yards of 6lb. test monofilament. These smaller reels are not as durable as their larger counter parts. These reels lack the multiple ball bearing construction that makes larger reels run smoother. But don’t let their size fool you. Many of the large reel manufacturers have made progress in the realm of ultra-light equipment. Advancements in drag systems have allowed some of these smaller reels the ability to handle any fishing situation.
Another major advancement that benefits the ultra-light fishing market is the development of co-polymer and braided fishing lines. These lines can have the diameter of a 4lb. test monofilament, but the ability to perform like an 8lb. test line. The added test strength will ensure that more fish end up in the boat than swimming away with your favorite lures. These advanced lines resist the twisting that is common with light monofilament line.
One you have your setup you’ll need to have a few lures in your arsenal that will accommodate your ultra-light experience. The first, and one of the most effective ultra-light lures is the Johnson Beetle Spin. Ranging in size from 1/32 oz. to 1/4oz these lures catch fish of all sizes. For your ultra-light needs consider the 1/32–1/16oz. Beetle Spins. For colors, look to chartreuse, black, white, and yellow to increase your catch.
Fish the Beetle spin steady through moving water. Near dams or spillways cast the lure into the falling water and fish it fast with the current. Larger fish wait at the bottom of this rough water waiting for a quick meal. In lakes and ponds fish this lure erratically. For finicky fish do the old bump and run along longs and around blown down trees to draw a strike.
Another lure you should have for your ultra-light tackle box is the 1/4oz. Rat-L-Trap. This lipless crankbait is extremely versatile. Burn the lure over the tops of submerged weed beds. Be sure to keep your rod tip high because this lure is not weed friendly. In my tackle box the Rat-L-Trap, regardless of size, is affectionately called \”The Grappler\” for its amazing ability to snag everything below the surface of the water. It may be difficult to keep it out of the weeds, but if you can you will be astounded at the variety of fish that will chase this lure down. I focus on three main colors when fishing Rat-L-Traps, chrome, baby bass, and the silver shad.
The next time you find yourself frustrated out on the lake remember that bigger isn’t always better. Go small, because ultra-light fishing offers a fresh challenge. Even a slight change in size or patterns may draw a heavy strike from a lurking largemouth.
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