12 Nebraskaland • November 2020
IN THE FIELD
Traditionally, stick baits such as
Husky Jerks and Rogues are deadly
when used early and late in the season.
I have found this to be particularly
true in some areas and have found a
few tips that really help catch fish.
For the most part, I lean toward
sticks that suspend, like the above
mentioned weapons. I've found that
having a variety on hand will help you
dial in what the fish want. Some days
they want 3-inch baits, some days
4½-inch. Every bait has a different
wobble, roll and appearance at rest
while suspending. Pay attention to
these aspects and let the fish tell you
what they want.
Finding the right cadence is also
important when using sticks. I will
usually cast out, rip them down a few
cranks, then completely stop them.
Then try to figure out if I should
reel slowly, twitch the bait or reel a
couple times and stop it again. Pay
attention to when the fish strike; is it
on the pause or right when you start
cranking again? Once you find the
right cadence, you can be kept busy.
Dressing your hooks is also an
option. A few lures come with this
style hook, but for the ones that don't,
I have tied a few hooks with mylar
and feathers, adding flash to the
presentation. Once again, let the fish
tell you if they want a flashy bait, or
one that's a bit dull and slower.
Use these tips, find a pattern that
works, and you'll be amazed at how
many different species of fish will
strike a well-presented stick bait.
STICK BAITS FOR SUCCESS
By Brian Robinson
PHOTO
BY
JEFF
KURRUS
