Ethan Clarke
Soft plastic lures are a popular choice for fishing, especially for catching trout and bass. They are effective because they can be made to look like small fish, which larger fish will eat. To fish with soft plastics, it's important to understand the species you're targeting and the depth of water you're fishing in. The jig head you use should match the size of the soft plastic, and you should vary your retrieval technique to find what works best on the day. When casting, go light and slow, and be patient. You can also try drop shotting, which involves keeping your bait in one place long enough to entice a bite.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Rigging | Ensure the soft plastic is rigged straight to avoid spinning and to attract fish |
| Jig head selection | Match the jig head to the soft plastic size; select a jig head weight that optimises catch rates for the depth and species being fished for |
| Casting | Cast out in the same direction but further out into the water; use a small lure and work up to a larger one |
| Retrieval | Vary the retrieval speed and style (e.g. slow continuous retrieve, erratic lifts, etc.); use a slow roll with curl tails and paddle tail plastics |
| Species | Understand the species being targeted; use marine electronics to find fish |
| Bait | Use soft-plastic lures to imitate baitfish, crayfish, or other forage |
| Location | Be specific about the fishing location (e.g. water depth, current strength, etc.) |
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What You'll Learn
The importance of rigging your soft plastic straight
Rigging your soft plastic straight is of paramount importance when fishing. If your soft plastic isn't rigged correctly, it will spin, and no fish will come near it. Rigging it straight will ensure that you get the subtle action you need from the soft plastics and, of course, you'll actually catch fish!
There are several ways to rig soft plastics, including texas rig, ned rig, jig, or weightless. The texas rig is a good option for murky water, as it creates more water movement and vibrations, helping the fish find your lure. The weightless rig is a good option for freshwater fishing, as it allows your lure to float slowly, enticing the fish.
When rigging your soft plastic, it's important to use the right size jig head. This will ensure that the soft plastic swims properly in the water and increases your chances of getting a bite. You can also use a fluorocarbon leader, which is a thin, fused fishing line that is harder for fish to see and provides some stretch, so the fish is less likely to snap your line.
Additionally, consider drop shotting, a technique that involves shaking your lure in place to entice non-committal or sluggish fish in colder water. This method is especially effective for trout fishing, as it allows you to keep your bait in the zone long enough to entice a bite.
Finally, practice makes perfect when it comes to rigging soft plastics. With time and experience, you'll become more adept at rigging your lures straight, which will ultimately improve your fishing success.
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Using the right jig head for the species and depth of water
When fishing with soft plastics, it is important to use the right jig head for the species and depth of water you are targeting. The jig head weight should be chosen to optimise catch rates for the depth and species you are fishing for. If your jig head is too heavy, your soft plastic will plummet to the bottom too quickly, and if it is too light, it will drift away with the current.
For example, if you are fishing for pinkies in 4 meters of water, you might use a 1/12 ounce jig head and 1-0 jig head gauge size. If you are targeting light estuary species like bream, you will need a light jig head such as 1/12, 1/16, 1/20, 1/28, or 1/40, which will allow your soft plastic to sink slowly and enhance its action. For bigger inshore species, you will need a larger jig head size and weight, such as 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, or 1/12, depending on the depth and current strength.
It is also important to match the jig head to the size of the soft plastic lure you are using. Additionally, different jig head types work better in different situations, so it is important to experiment and find what works best for the specific species and conditions you are fishing in.
When fishing with soft plastics, it is also crucial to rig your lure straight. If it is not rigged straight, it will spin, and no fish will come near it. Rigging a soft plastic correctly can take practice, but it will make a big difference in your catch rates.
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How to use drop shotting to entice bites
Drop shotting is a simple technique that can be used to catch a wide variety of fish species in various situations. It is especially useful for targeting pressured or sluggish fish in cold water. The method involves using a drop shot weight at the end of your line, with a dropper loop a few inches above it, creating a short arm perpendicular to the main line. This short arm holds a hook and a soft-plastic lure.
To entice bites, cast your rig upstream and let it settle into a hole. Gently shake the rod tip to make the lure twitch, mimicking the movement of prey. After 30 seconds, lift the weight to move the rig further down the pool and repeat the process. This technique keeps the lure in the strike zone for longer, increasing the chances of enticing a bite.
When drop shotting, it is important to use the right soft-plastic lure. Slim profile soft plastics in the 2- to 4-inch range are often recommended. The colour and type of lure can be varied to imitate different prey, such as crayfish or minnows, depending on the species of fish you are targeting.
Additionally, vary your retrieve pattern. Try different speeds, pauses, and twitches to see what works best on a particular day. This technique can be used in both freshwater and saltwater, with slight variations in the setup, such as the hook and weight size.
Drop shotting is a versatile and effective method for catching fish with soft plastics, and it does not require expert-level technical expertise to implement successfully.
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How to vary your retrieve
When fishing with soft plastics, varying your retrieve can be an effective way to increase your chances of catching fish. Here are some ways to do this:
Slow and Steady Retrieve: This technique involves retrieving the lure slowly and steadily, allowing it to sink and then slowly twitching it back. This method is particularly effective for fishing bream, where a subtle presentation is key. Going slow and steady is also recommended for creature baits with wobbly legs and claws, as it gives them time to sway in the current and mimic the movements of prey.
Fast and Steady Retrieve: In contrast to the slow retrieve, you can also try retrieving the lure with a fast, steady cycle. This can be combined with a "jerking" motion, where you lift the rod tip to around 60 degrees and then drop it to let the lure fall, creating an erratic movement that resembles a wounded or struggling baitfish. This technique works well with jerkshad lures, causing their straight tails to vibrate through the water.
Erratic Retrieve: Varying the speed of your retrieve can also be effective. Try alternating between slow and fast retrievals, or even letting the lure fall and then cranking it back in. Strikes often occur when the lure falls or as you start retrieving again.
Hopping Retrieve: This popular technique involves a unique motion that differs from the standard straight retrieve. It can be an effective way to attract fish and increase your chances of a catch.
Cast and Reel Technique: This simple technique involves casting your lure and then reeling it in without any complex movements. While it may lack finesse, it can still be surprisingly effective, as the silhouette of a fleeing worm can trigger a sense of urgency in the fish.
When using soft plastics, it's important to experiment with different retrieves to find what works best on a particular day and for the type of fish you're targeting. Adapting your approach based on conditions and the fish's behaviour will increase your chances of success.
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How to choose the right soft plastic for the species of fish
Soft plastic lures are a popular choice for anglers due to their versatility, affordability, and ability to mimic real food sources. They are effective for both freshwater and saltwater fishing and can be used to target a wide range of fish species. When choosing the right soft plastic for a specific species of fish, there are several factors to consider:
- Water conditions: The clarity of the water plays a crucial role in selecting the right soft plastic lure. In clear water, opt for more natural and brighter colours that match the type of baitfish in that area. For example, the Exude® RT Slug resembles a baitfish and can be an effective choice for bass fishing in clear water. Conversely, in stained or murky water, choose lures that attract fish through sound and vibration.
- Weather conditions: Weather conditions can also impact your lure selection. During cold fronts, downsize your lures as the fish's metabolism slows down, and they are less likely to go for a large meal. In stable weather, larger lures can be more effective in catching bigger fish.
- Target species: Understanding the species of fish you are targeting is essential. Different fish species have different feeding habits and preferences. Consider the water systems, depth, current strength, and structure of the fishing location. For estuary fish such as bream, a light rod and reel combo with lightly weighted soft plastics are recommended. For bigger inshore species, you may need to increase the jig head size and weight.
- Hook and jig head selection: Select the appropriate hook size for your target species, and then choose a soft plastic that suits both the hook size and the species. Ensure that the curve of the hook sits around the middle of the lure to allow for optimal movement in the water. The weight of the jig head should also be considered, depending on whether you are fishing in small streams or offshore locations.
- Tail designs: Soft plastics come in various tail designs, including paddle tails, curl tails, minnow tails, and jerkbaits. Paddle tails and curl tail grubs are versatile and effective for a wide range of species, making them a great option for beginners.
- Presentation: Consider the retrieval speed and presentation of the soft plastic. Many fish will take a soft plastic when it's on the bottom or being worked very slowly. Experiment with different techniques, such as erratic lifts and winding, to find what works best on the day.
By considering these factors and selecting the right soft plastic lure, you can increase your chances of catching the desired species of fish.
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Frequently asked questions
Rigging a soft plastic correctly is essential. If it's not straight, it will spin, and no fish will go near it. You can look up the countless videos available on YouTube to learn how to do this.
There are several techniques you can use. One is to cast your plastic or lure, wait for it to hit the bottom, then do several erratic lifts and wind in the slack before letting it sink again. Count to five and repeat the process until your plastic is back where you are fishing. Another technique is the slow roll, where you cast your plastic or lure, wait for it to hit the bottom, then do a slow continuous retrieve of your reel. You can also try drop shotting, which involves keeping your rig shaking in place, allowing the lure to dance and quiver until a fish decides to strike.
It's important to understand the species you're targeting and to use the right jig head weight and size for the depth and species you're fishing for. Go light, go slow, and be patient. You can also try different retrieves and lures until you find what works.
