TackleLab Bass Fishing Blog
In-depth articles on a variety of bass fishing topics.

How to Fish a Drop Shot Rig for Largemouth Bass: In-Depth Guide
The drop shot has won more money than any other rig on the bass fishing circuit, but is this technique only for Smallmouth? We dive into the drop shot rig for largemouth bass, and why it might be worth adding to your arsenal of techniques.
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Best Fishing Line for a Baitcaster Reel: Bass Fishing
We break down the best fishing lines for a baitcaster for bass fishing, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of all the main line types.

The Best Line for Your Spinning Reel: Bass Fishing
Understanding the characteristics of each fishing line will go a long way in determining the best line for your spinning reel. We dive deep into the topic of line choice for your spinning reel when targeting bass.

The Weighted Wacky Rig for Bass Fishing: A Deep Dive
The weighted wacky rig gives you that awesome ability to cover loads of attractive water while keeping that classic 'wacky' action. We dive deep into the weighted wacky rig.

Best Chatterbait Trailers for Bass: 3 Styles of Soft Plastics
The chatterbait just simply looks better with a trailer. We highlight some of the best chatterbait trailers for bass, as well as when to apply them.

How To Setup & Fish a Weightless Wacky Rig Senko
Learn the basics of how to fish the Weightless Wacky Rig Senko. This is a rig that has changed the game and can get you bites all year round in any conditions.
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How to Fish a Finesse Jig: Where, Why & Setup
A comprehensive guide outlining how to fish a finesse jig, a versatile finesse technique that can give you an edge in tough fishing conditions.

Must Know Ned Rig Retrieves: 3 Reliable Methods
The ned rig is a simple, but immensely effective finesse presentation. Here are three effective and reliable Ned rig retrieves to help get you started.

8 Largemouth Bass Spawning Facts You Need to Know
Understand the spawning pattern for largemouth bass will greatly improve your know-how when targeting them as the season begins. Here are 8 largemouth bass spawning facts you need to know.

How to Fish a Chatterbait for Bass: 4 Ways to Fish a Bladed Jig
The chatterbait, otherwise known as a bladed jig is a powerful search bait for targeting bass. We break down four ways how you can fish this modern bait.
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What is the Best Size Bullet Weight to use for a Texas Rig?
To simplify the process of selecting sinker size for a Texas rig, it is important to understand a few key concepts. We breakdown these concepts to distinguish the best weight for a Texas rig.

What Do I Need For Bass Fishing: Beginner's Guide
A beginners guide for getting started with a bass fishing setup. This article will help you cut through the clutter and choose a solid bass fishing starter kit without breaking the bank.

Best Ned Rig Colors: Color Selection Guide
An intuitive guide to choosing the best ned rig color based on the conditions you are fishing in

The Best Spawning Bass Fishing Techniques: Find Their Zones
The spawn can be a fruitful time for catching bass, but it can also be a tough one. Understanding spawning bass fishing techniques will go a long way in catching fish consistently during spring.

Best Baits for Spawning Bass: 5 Epic Lures for Spring Bass
The spawn can be a tough time of year to locate and get bass to bite. We outline some of the best baits for spawning bass as well as key patterns to understand when searching for a lunker in the spring.
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The Best Line for Finesse Fishing: Two Top Options
Line choice is key for effective finesse fishing. Here are two proven approaches to selecting line for finesse fishing

Best Shaky Head Weight for Bass: An In-Depth Guide
The shaky head is one of the most satisfying finesse techniques out there as well as a fish-catching machine. Here's all you need to know on the best shaky head weights for catching loads of bass.

Finesse Bass Fishing: Meaning, Setup, Techniques
Finesse bass fishing is simply the most effective way to catch bass consistently. Understanding the process of finesse techniques will enhance your versatility majorly.

Ned Rig vs. Shaky Head: Key Differences & Tips
The ned rig vs. the shaky head. Two of arguably the most successful finesse techniques in the sport. We outline the key difference between these two unique presentations.

Best Weedless Lures for Bass: 5 Baits for Fishing Heavy Cover
Fishing heavy cover gives us access to strike zones we never thought were possible, and it's a powerful method for targeting pressured fish! Here are some of the best weedless lures for bass.
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Best Ned Rig Head Size for Bass: Tip & Tricks
The ned rig, like other finesse techniques, is one that just simply catches fish. Choosing the best head size can be tough, so we've broken the key things to note when making a selection.
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Best Fishing Line for Crankbait Bass Fishing: In-Depth Guide
Fishing line is a crucial element for getting the best action and coverage out of our crankbait. Let's talk about the best line for crankbait bass fishing.
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Jerkbait vs. Crankbait: 2 Powerful Reaction Baits for Bass
In this article, we will explore the differences between jerkbait and crankbait and to help you decide on when to throw these powerful reaction baits.
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How To Fish a Jerkbait for Bass: An In-Depth Guide
The jerkbait is without a doubt one of the most effective reaction baits out there. This guide covers all the key aspects on how to fish a jerkbait, as well as the importance of having the technique in your arsenal.
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When to Use a Carolina Rig for Bass: 5 Key Tips
Although considered old-school, some of the best bass anglers still trust the Carolina rig when fishing offshore. Here is why you should own the Carolina rig as well as the best times to use it.

Mastering the Ned Rig for Bass Fishing: How and Why
The Ned Rig is responsible for winning many tournaments in the highest level of bass fishing. Understanding how and why this rig is so effective will give you another finesse technique in your arsenal.

Best Carolina Rig Baits for Bass: 5 Soft Plastics You Need
The Carolina rig remains one of bass fishing's most powerful techniques for getting bass in the boat. Here are the 5 best Carolina rig baits that'll get bit in the most challenging conditions.

The Best Times To Go Bass Fishing: Catch Bass Throughout the Year
Understanding bass throughout each season will help you get fish in the boat consistently throughout the year. Some seasons are better than others, so let's look into the best times to go bass fishing.

How to Fish a Tokyo Rig for Bass: Techniques, Setup, Tips
The Tokyo rig is a modern technique that may have the ability to change the face of power fishing. We dive in and focus on how to fish a Tokyo rig for bass.

Best Early Fall Bass Lures: 9 Essential Baits
As summer fades away, water temperatures can reach the optimal temperature for catching bass. Here we analyze some of the best early fall bass lures and different techniques for getting more fish in the boat.
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Best Line for the Texas Rig: The Ultimate Guide
The Texas rig is a technique we turn to when we're fishing heavy vegetation and other forms of exposed cover which is tough on our tackle. Let's look at some of the best fishing line for the Texas rig.

When do Bass Start Hitting Topwater: When & Why
It is no secret that topwater baits don't work in colder water. This guide clearly explains when in the year you can start expecting to catch on topwater and why.

What Spinnerbait to use in Muddy Water: Tips & Tricks
Going for bass after a cold front is usually a tough task and water conditions are usually unfavorable. We provide insights on what spinnerbait to use in muddy conditions.

How To Catch Pressured Bass: Size Down and Slow Down
Fishing a pressured system can be a frustrating and difficult task. Making minor adjustments to your approach can get those spooky bass to bite again.
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How to Fish a Spinnerbait for Bass: 3 Unique Techniques
The spinnerbait is regarded as an 'old lure', but it remains one of the most fun ways to catch bass in any condition. We dive into this classic lure and outline how to fish a spinnerbait for bass.

How To Fish a Shaky Head Worm: Catch More Pressured Bass
The shaky head is one of the most effective finesse techniques while being one of the most basic rigs to get going with. This piece will give you the lowdown on how to fish the shaky head worm and why it's so effective for pressured bass.

Choosing the Right Size Hook for the Wacky Rig: An In-Depth Guide
The wacky rig is a technique that'll do the job all season, but there's often a misconception of what hook should be used for it. We've broken down what is the best size hook for the wacky rig.

How To Rig a Neko Rig for Bass: An In-Depth Guide
A slight alteration to the wacky rig, the neko rig provides a unique way to target finicky bass. We provide a guide on how to rig a neko rig for bass.

Shaky Head vs. Texas Rig: Key Differences
Two techniques that may seem similar in shape, but are noticeably different in operation. We outline these two successful methods and look into the shaky head vs the legendary Texas rig.

Best Bass Lures for Summer: 5 of the Best Baits for Hot Summer Days
Summertime means more boats, warmer water, and lazy bass. We dive into bait selection and look at some of the best bass lures for summer, while highlighting key patterns within this tricky season.

Best Baits for Fall Bass Fishing: 5 Lures to Smash The Fall
The fall transition in bass fishing can be a challenging time to be on the water. Bait selection is key, and here are 5 of the best baits for targeting bass during the fall.

Best Bass Lures for Shore Fishing: 5 Must Have Baits
Putting a simple, effective selection of lures is essential for success from the shore. In this article we break down 5 of the best bass lures for shore fishing.

Best Carolina Rig Setup for Bass: The Ball & Chain Rig
The Carolina rig is one of the OG techniques when it comes to bass fishing. It remains a powerful offshore technique that'll catch fish all day. We outline the best Carolina rig setup for bass.

Best Lures for Summer Pond Bass Fishing: 5 Essential Baits
Bass fishing is a skill that one can practice and improve on and pond fishing is an epic way to do it. Here are some of the best bass lures for summer pond fishing to get you started.

The Best Cold Water Bass Baits: 5 Lures You Need for Winter
Winter is a tough season for getting bass to bite. There are however lures that'll make the season worth fishing. Here are the best cold water bass baits.

Best Lures for Bass Fishing at Night: 4 Baits You Need for Night Time Fishing
Bass fishing at night can be incredible provided you are throwing the right lures. We break down four of the best lures for bass at night and why these baits are so effective in the later hours.

Best Hook for a Wacky Rig: 3 Unique Hook Styles
Choosing the right hook for a wacky rig is incredibly important. With so many options on the market it can be difficult to make a choice and we help this article helps you out with that.

Best Post Spawn Bass Lures: 5 Baits You Need
The post-spawn period for bass can be tough for us bass anglers. Here are some tips and some of the best post-spawn lures you need to have in the boat.

Best Ned Rig Baits for Bass: 5 Incredible Soft Plastics
The ned rig remains one of the most unique and odd presentations in the sport of bass fishing. However, it's a prolific fish-catcher and it's growing in popularity all the time. We have a look at 5 of the best ned rig baits.

Buzzbait vs Spinnerbait: Battle of the Blades
There's often plenty of confusion amongst the application and presentation of these two unique baits. We look to clarify the key differences between the Buzzbait and the Spinnerbait.

The Drop Shot Rig for Smallmouth Bass: Tips, Tricks, Setup
Using the drop shot rig for smallmouth bass is one of the most effective ways to target these epic freshwater game fish. Here, we look at why this bait is so effective in getting these fish to eat.

Drop Shot Rigging for Bass Fishing
The Drop Shot rig is arguably the most successful finesse application when it comes to bass fishing. The varying ways to present this rig also makes it one of the most versatile.

How to Fish a Neko Rig for Bass: Techniques, Setup, Tips
The neko rig is another one of those delicate presentations that'll get the job done when nothing else seems to be getting bit. We dive into the process of how to fish a neko rig for bass.
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Free Rig for Bass Fishing: A New Secret Weapon
A deadly rig that has gained huge popularity in the last few years thanks to a unique, free moving sinker motion. A proven pressured fish catcher.

How to Fish a Swim Jig for Bass: Setup, Zones, Retrieval
The swim jig is a slightly altered version of the original jig, giving it a more baitfish-like presentation. We dive deep into the process of fishing a swim jig effectively and catching more bass with it.
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How To Fish a Topwater Frog: Catch Big Bass on Top
Topwater frog fishing is one of the most exhilarating techniques when it comes to bass fishing. We look at how to fish a topwater frog for bass, and what is needed to get that adrenalin-packed topwater bite.

Best Neko Rig Setup for Bass: Rod, Reel, Line
The neko rig is one of the most powerful ways to target pressured bass in any system. It's a finesse technique that requires lighter gear to match it. We dive into the neko rig setup for bass.

Neko Rig vs. Wacky Rig: Key Differences
Two finesse techniques that possess one unique straight that bass simply cannot resist. We have a look at the Neko rig vs. the Wacky rig.

Bass Fishing In Windy Conditions: Take it on and Catch More Fish
Bass fishing in windy conditions can be a frustrating and unpleasant operation. However, wind often brings about favorable behaviour in bass - leading to more bites and more fish in the boat.

Best Bass Fishing Lures for Early Spring: 5 Epic Baits for Pre-Spawn
Early spring brings about a time of change for bass. We say goodbye to winter and welcome warmer waters and longer days on the boat. These are some of the best bass fishing lures for early spring.

Best Worms for a Wacky Rig: 4 Top Soft Plastics
To get the most out of a wacky rig, you need to be using the right bait. In this article we explain what type of bait to choose and review four of the best options on the market today.

Tokyo Rig vs. Texas Rig: Key Differences
One is modern, one is classic, both are extremely satisfying. We dive into the Tokyo rig vs. the Texas rig, and outline the key differences between these incredibly effective power techniques.

Best Texas Rig Setup for Bass: Rod, Reel, Line, Tackle
Who doesn't enjoy fishing some of the heaviest vegetation in our favorite lake? The Texas rig is made for these situations. We dive into the Texas setup for bass, and what is needed to get more fish in the boat.

The Tiny Child Rig: The True Weedless Ned Rig
The Tiny Child Rig is the true weedless Ned! This little known technique is the best way to enjoy the benefits of the Ned Rig without all the snags.

Pitching and Flipping for Bass: Explained
Two techniques that go hand-in-hand and remain extremely effective in ideal conditions. Flipping and pitching for bass is arguably the most satisfying way to work any system. We dive deep into this powerful method.

Best Topwater Rod for Spooks: Key Specs & Features
Fishing a spook is as good as it gets. To give yourself the best chance of converting those topwater explosions into fish catches, you need to be using a rod that supports the technique. We break down some important considerations in this article.

Best Size Drop Shot Hook: Making a Selection
Choosing the best possible size for a drop shot hook can be broken down into simple considerations and can help you get a lot more bites. Here's a quick guide on hook selection for one of the most prolific techniques in bass fishing.

Best Color Braided Fishing Line for Bass: 2 Color Types You Need
Braid is an absolute necessity for any serious bass fisherman. But what is the best color braided fishing line for bass? We analze two key styles.

Best Drop Shot Baits for Bass: 5 of the Finest
The drop shot rig has won more prize money than any other technique on the circuit. We look at some of the best drop shot baits for bass and how they're changing the game.

The Best Line for Shaky Head Fishing: 2 Key Options
Line application is the most important component for any finesse technique. We analyze some options and look to what is the best line for shaky head fishing.

Best Neko Rig Baits: 5 World-Class Options
The neko rig is just another finesse technique that seems to get fish in the boat no matter where you're fishing. We have a look at some of the best neko rig baits.
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Caffeine Shad vs Super Fluke: The Differences You Need to Know
There is no doubting the power of soft plastic jerkbaits. We decided to outline the differences between two of the biggest players on the market.

Wacky Rig O Ring Substitute: Save Even More Senkos
What if we told you there is an awesome substitute for an O ring. And what if we told you it is even more effective. In this article we explain the best substitute for a wacky rig and how to use it.

Wacky Rig vs. Texas Rig: Key Differences
The two techniques that many turn to when approaching a bank for off attractive cover, but which one suits you best? We looking into the wacky rig vs. the Texas rig and distinguish the key differences between these prolific applications.

Bass Fishing at Night in Summer: Top 5 Tips
Fishing for bass at night may well land you your personal best this Summer! We break down the most important tips if you are looking to get on the water at night time.

Best Color Crankbait for Bass: 4 Key Tips on Color Selection
Color selection for any technique in bass fishing is absolutely critical. Here, we look to help you choose the best color crankbait for bass - no matter what kind of system you're fishing.

Carolina Rig vs. Texas Rig vs. Drop Shot: 3 Classic Bass Fishing Techniques
Three bass fishing techniques that changed the sport. But are the differences between the Carolina rig, the Texas rig, and the Drop Shot rig?
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Understanding Fall Bass Fishing Techniques: Follow the Baitfish
Fall can be an exciting but also a frustrating season for catching bass. Understanding fall bass fishing techniques will help you catch more fish as winter approaches.

Fly Fishing for Bass: The Best Line Weight?
Bass are without a doubt some of the funnest fish to catch on fly. Using the right weight fly line is key in order to cast in the necessary areas, and turning over those bigger flies.

Football Jig Fishing: Setup, Techniques, Zones
Football jig fishing continues to go in popularity within the sport of bass fishing. We dive deep into the process and setup needed for getting more bass with this altered approach to jig fishing.

Line Diameter and Bass Fishing: The Truth About Fishing Line
Shiraz Jogee dives deep into the importance of fishing line, and more specifically, line diameter. Broaden your knowledge on the link between you and your bait and use it to catch more bass.