Baits and Lures 101

Mark Zona explains how effective a topwater bait like the Popping Perch or Pad Perch can be during the spawn to target bedding fish from a respectful distance.

Todd Faircloth shares the similarities and differences between two popular baits he’s had a ton of success with over the years: the spinnerbait and the swimbait.

When fishing laydowns and shallow cover, Greg Hackney likes to throw a flipping jig or a swim jig depending on the water temperature.

Kevin VanDam likes to toss squarebills and spinnerbaits to get that big bite as pre-spawn bass are moving shallow to spawning flats and cover. See which bait KVD recommends based on the conditions, cover and visibility.

Todd Castledine managed to keep the Hybrid Hunter a secret for over a decade. He explains its origins and how he likes to fish it.

Todd Castledine shares the difference between two baits that have become staples in his tackle box: the Red Eyed Shad and the Hybrid Hunter.

Todd Faircloth shares the difference between two baits that have become staples in his tackle box: the Thunder Cricket and the Square bill crankbait.

Depending on the cover, weather, and time of year, it is important to know what to look for when choosing between the Red Eyed Shad and the Chick Magnet. Andy Morgan compares these two similar baits with quite different qualities.

The profile and bill of each crankbait changes the way it travels through the water, making it difficult to choose one to use. Kevin VanDam compares two shallow water crankbaits and the best scenarios for using each of them.