Chloe Zhang
Soft plastic tubes are a type of fishing lure that can be used in a variety of ways to catch different species of fish. They are particularly effective for bass fishing, and can be used in both freshwater and saltwater applications. The tubes can be bounced along the bottom or retrieved steadily or erratically, depending on the type of fish you are targeting. In this guide, we will cover the different techniques for fishing with soft plastic tubes, including the best sizes, colours, and retrieval methods to maximise your chances of catching your target species.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Choosing the right soft plastic tube
The shape and colour of the soft plastic tube lure are also important factors in your decision-making process. The shape of the lure can mimic anything from a small fish to a crawdad, tricking the fish into taking the bait. The colour of the lure should often be brighter in clearer water and under a bright sky. However, it is important to match the colour of the baitfish in your specific region. For example, in some southern regions, alewife-coloured lures may resemble small shad, while Croaker Shad lures may be more effective in other areas.
It is also worth noting that while there are guidelines for selecting lures, sometimes breaking the rules can be surprisingly successful. For instance, using a lure that should be less appealing to the fish on a particular day might end up saving your fishing trip. The lure's size, shape, colour, and presentation are all critical factors in lure selection, but sometimes, going against conventional wisdom can pay off.
When selecting a soft plastic tube lure, consider the feeding habits of your target fish species. Fish that feed by sight, typically in clear water, require a more natural-looking lure. Conversely, fish that feed by sound and vibration, commonly in murkier water, demand a lure that attracts their attention through these senses. The Exude® RT Slug is an excellent example of a natural-looking lure for bass fishing.
Lastly, don't be afraid to experiment with different lures and techniques. Fishing is a fun activity, and while selecting the right lure is important, sometimes trying something new can lead to unexpected success. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the experience and the thrill of the catch, so don't be too hard on yourself if you don't get it right every time. Happy fishing!
Plastic's Surprising Environmental Benefits: An Eco-Friendly Future?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Selecting the appropriate hook
When selecting a hook for soft plastic tubes, it's important to consider the size, type, and weight of the hook, as well as the specific technique you plan to use.
The size of the hook should be proportional to the size of the tube and the target fish species. For example, smaller tubes in the range of 1.5 to 2.25 inches are ideal for streams and ponds, and you would use a smaller hook to match. Larger tubes, ranging from 3 to 5 inches, are better suited for lakes and reservoirs, and you would need a larger hook.
The type of hook you choose is also important. The most commonly used hook types for soft plastic tubes are the EWG (Extra Wide Gap) and the round bend hook. EWG hooks are popular because they provide more gap and better exposure of the point, increasing the likelihood of hooking the fish. Round bend hooks, on the other hand, offer a different presentation and are suitable for certain techniques, such as Texas rigging.
Weight is another critical factor. Heavier hooks, such as those made from tungsten or lead, can help the tube sink faster and reach the desired depth quicker. Lighter wire hooks may be preferred in some situations, especially when fishing in areas with heavy cover, as they can provide a more natural presentation and reduce the risk of hanging up on obstructions.
Lastly, consider the specific technique you plan to use. For example, if you're using a Texas rig, a wide gap hook or an offset worm hook can be effective. If you're wacky rigging, which involves hooking the soft plastic tube through the centre, a specialized wacky rigging hook or a circle hook can be a better choice.
Flexzilla Air Hose Fittings: Plastic or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Using the correct weight
For larger bodies of water like lakes and reservoirs, opt for tubes in the 3- to 5-inch range. In these deeper waters, a heavier jig head or lure is necessary to reach the desired depth. A 1/4 to 1/2 ounce jig head paired with a larger tube will be effective in targeting bigger fish such as smallmouth bass.
On the other hand, for smaller bodies of water like streams and ponds, downsize your soft plastic tubes to the 1.5- to 2.1/4-inch range. Lighter jig heads or lures in the range of 1/32 to 1/8 ounce are more suitable for these shallower waters. This setup will enable you to target panfish, crappie, and small bass more effectively.
Additionally, consider the retrieve style and current speed. For bass, a bounced or erratic retrieve with pauses and pops works well. In this case, a slightly heavier jig head or lure will help create the desired action. Conversely, for sunfish and crappie, a slow and steady retrieve with occasional twitches of the rod tip is preferred. A lighter setup will be more suitable for this technique.
The weight of your soft plastic tube setup will also depend on the type of fishing you're doing. For flipping and pitching, which are effective techniques for bass fishing, a heavier setup with bulkier tubes can be advantageous. The added weight and larger profile will help you reach your target zone accurately.
Remember, the key to using the correct weight is to match the size and depth of the water you're fishing, as well as the type of fish you're targeting. Experiment with different weights and observe how they affect your presentation. By making these adjustments, you'll increase your chances of success when fishing with soft plastic tubes.
Hot Coffee and Plastic Cups: A Recipe for Disaster?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Fishing in the right location
When fishing with soft plastic tubes, it's important to consider the type of fish you're targeting and the location you're fishing in to maximize your chances of success. Soft plastic tubes are known to be particularly effective for catching panfish, crappie, and black bass (including largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass).
If you're fishing in lakes and reservoirs, opt for tubes that are 3 to 5 inches in length. For deeper waters, pair your tube with a heavier jig-head, such as a 1/4th to 1/2 ounce jig-head, in colors like green pumpkin with red and/or black flake, or black and blue. These larger tubes are ideal for targeting bigger bass, such as smallmouth bass.
On the other hand, if you're fishing in streams and ponds, downsize to tubes ranging from 1.5 to 2 1/4 inches. Natural colors like green pumpkin with red and black flake tend to be more attractive to fish in these environments. Adjust the weight of your jig-head depending on the depth, current speed, and retrieve style. For streams with faster currents, a lighter jig-head, such as a 1/32nd to 1/8th ounce, may be more effective.
Additionally, consider the behavior of the fish you're targeting. Bass often respond well to a bounced or erratic retrieve with pauses and pops, while sunfish and crappie tend to prefer a slower, steadier retrieve with occasional twitches of the rod tip.
Retrobrite Plastics: Stove-top Method for Beginners
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Employing the best retrieval technique
Soft plastic tubes are a popular choice for fishing, especially for bass, panfish and crappie. The best retrieval technique will depend on the type of fish you are trying to catch. For example, bass tend to favour a bounced or erratic retrieve with pauses and pops, whereas sunfish and crappie prefer a slow, steady retrieve with an occasional twitch of the rod tip.
The size of the tube will also depend on the setting. In lakes and reservoirs, tubes ranging from 3 to 5 inches are ideal, whereas in streams and ponds, opt for smaller tubes, ranging from 1.5 to 2.25 inches. The depth, current speed and retrieve style will also determine the weight of the jig-head; for instance, when fishing in deeper waters, pair a green pumpkin with a larger jig-head (1/4 to 1/2 ounce). In shallower waters, opt for a smaller jig-head (1/32 to 1/8 ounce).
The design of the soft plastic tube is also important. For example, tubes with undulating tentacles, such as the YUM Tube, are great for bass and walleye. Alternatively, tubes with a salt release system, such as the Zoom Super Tube, cause the fish to hold on for longer as they get a burst of salt.
When it comes to the retrieval technique, there are a few options. One technique is to drag the tube along the bottom while searching for a bite. This works well with compact tubes on a Texas rig, allowing you to slip in and out of cover while remaining weedless. Another technique is to bounce the tube along the bottom, either steadily or erratically, depending on the type of fish you are targeting. Additionally, you can flip and pitch the tube, which works well with larger tubes designed for this purpose, such as the Big Bite Baits Tour Flipper Tube.
The Hidden Plastic Problem in Face Masks
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Soft plastic tubes are used as bait for fishing.
Soft plastic tubes are most effective on panfish, crappie, and black bass.
3-inch to 5-inch tubes are great for lakes and reservoirs.
1.5-inch to 2.25-inch tubes are best for streams and ponds.
Examples of soft plastic tubes include the Strike King Coffee Fat Tube, the Big Bite Baits Tour Flipper Tube, and the Keitech Salty Core Tube.
