Spinnerbaits are what you want to use when you’re serious about bass fishing. These lures are great for the fish that live in heavily-weeded areas, and they can be used to attract both smallmouth and largemouth bass. With so many brands and types of spinnerbaits, it can be hard to know which is best suited for next year’s season.
To help you out, our expert anglers put together a list of the top spinnerbaits for bass fishing this year. We think you’re going to like what you see!
What Are Spinnerbaits and How Do They Work?
A spinnerbait is a specialized fishing lure designed to attract freshwater species such as perch, pike, and bass. That’s because a spinnerbait produces a smooth, fluid motion that imitates the swimming motion of baitfish. The idea is that if you have something that looks like bass prey, they’ll strike it.
It features a weighted jig and skirt, along with one or more blades that generate flash and vibration to attract fish. The real magic happens here, but we’ll briefly cover that.
Spinnerbaits are most effective when used in cloudy, overcast, or windy conditions and during the early morning and late evening when direct sunlight is low.
Vibration, flash, and sound are the key elements that attract fish to a spinnerbait. Spinnerbaits are known to be more effective than jigs and worms when it comes to catching bass.
The construction of the wireframe is one factor that may vary between brands of spinnerbaits.
The versatility and predatory fish-triggering characteristics of these lures make them highly effective.
Their user-friendly design, a wide range of applications, and ability to attract predatory fish make them highly effective.
Components of a Spinnerbait
A spinnerbait typically comprises a head, skirt, blade, and associated hardware such as a hook or hooks.
Spinnerbaits typically utilize three main blade types: Colorado, Indiana, and Willowleaf. Each blade offers distinct characteristics, resulting in varying vibrations and flashes in the water. Bass are drawn to the reflective flash of the blades on a spinnerbait. The number of blades featured on a spinnerbait can range from 1 to 5.
Willow leaf, Colorado, and Indiana blades are commonly used to manufacture spinnerbaits. By understanding the nuances of each blade type, anglers can learn which blades are best suited for different situations. For instance, Colorado blades are best for slow presentations, while Indiana blades are better for faster presentations. Knowing when and how to use the various blade types is essential for successful spinnerbait fishing.
The hook is best placed directly beneath the weighted head. This helps to ensure that the blade will have an optimal presentation. Spinnerbaits typically feature single or double hooks, with some models also including trailer hooks to increase the likelihood of hooking a fish when it strikes short. By understanding the different types of hooks available, anglers can make more informed decisions when selecting the right spinnerbait for their needs.
By selecting the right components and blades, anglers can create the perfect spinnerbait for bass fishing in 2023. Properly tuned spinnerbaits can be used to target bass in all types of conditions, from clear water to heavy cover. With the right combination of components, anglers can maximize their chances of success by choosing the best spinnerbait for the job.
Types of blades on spinnerbaits.
Spinnerbaits typically utilize three main blade types: Colorado, Indiana, and Willowleaf. Each blade offers distinct characteristics, resulting in varying vibrations and flashes in the water. Bass are drawn to the reflective flash of the blades on a spinnerbait. Knowing when and how to use the various blade types is essential for successful spinnerbait fishing.
Colorado blades are best for slow presentations, while Indiana blades are better for faster presentations. Willowleaf blades provide more lift, resulting in a higher profile presentation and extra flash.
The color of the blades can also influence the effectiveness of the spinnerbait, with some anglers prefer brighter colors while others opt for more subtle shades.
The number of blades featured on a spinnerbait can range from 1 to 5. However, it is important to note that adding more blades will increase the weight of the spinnerbait, potentially reducing its effectiveness in certain conditions.
Knowing when to use the various blade types is essential for successful spinnerbait fishing. By understanding the nuances of each blade type, anglers can learn which blades are best suited for different situations.
Hooks
Another main component of a spinnerbait is the hook. The hook is best placed directly beneath the weighted head. This helps to ensure that the blade will have an optimal presentation. Spinnerbaits typically feature single or double hooks, with some models also including trailer hooks to increase the likelihood of hooking a fish when it strikes short. We like to add a trailer hook or two when we fish spinnerbaits. They add a bit of complexity, but if you can work them properly, they’re totally worth it.
Head
The head of the spinnerbait is critical as it must be adequately balanced so that it can spin at the right speed and create a realistic presentation. It’s attached directly to the wire arm and generally is right next to the skirt and hook.
The shape and size of the head will also affect its performance. Smaller heads are better for slower presentations, while larger heads tend to perform better in faster-moving water.
Skirt
The skirt is where the colors and patterns of the spinnerbait are visible to fish. Skirts can mimic the look and movement of baitfish, making them highly attractive to bass. Choosing a skirt that will be easy for fish to see in the water is important. For example, bright or fluorescent colors are great for cloudy water conditions. We generally like to have an assortment of colors in our tacklebox as you never know what type of water you will be fishing in.
When to use spinnerbaits.
Spinnerbaits are a popular choice for bass fishing due to their versatility and effectiveness in various conditions. Many anglers rely on spinnerbaits as their go-to lure for bass fishing, as they can catch fish in various locations and situations.
Spinnerbaits are versatile lures that can be used in murky, clear, shallow, and deep water, as well as in cold and warm weather. When fishing with spinnerbaits, anglers must determine the optimal size, color, and components, which can vary depending on the conditions. Additionally, anglers must understand the best techniques for fishing with spinnerbaits if they want to land the big boys.
Clear water.
When fishing in clear water, white spinnerbaits are the optimal option. This is because they are more visible in the water column, making them easier for bass to spot. Additionally, white spinnerbaits are often more reflective and provide more flash than other colors. This makes them particularly effective in sunny conditions or for fishing in shallow water, where the flash is more likely to draw the attention of bass. It is important to note, however, that in some cases, darker colors, such as black, may be more effective in clear water.
When selecting a spinnerbait for fishing in clear water, the size of the lure should also be taken into consideration. Generally speaking, smaller spinnerbaits are more suitable for clearer water conditions, as they provide a more delicate presentation and create less disturbance in the water. Smaller spinnerbaits are also beneficial in colder water or during the winter months, as they make less vibration and are more likely to be noticed by bass.
In addition to size, the spinnerbait’s blades should also be considered. Willow leaf blades are the most common option, as they provide a realistic swimming action and create a lot of vibration in the water. However, round blades, such as Indiana or Colorado, may be more effective in murky or cold water.
Muddy water.
Spinnerbaits can be an effective tool for catching bass when fishing in muddy water. This is because spinnerbaits provide vibration and flash, which can draw bass out of cover and into the open.
When selecting a spinnerbait for fishing in muddy water, size and components should be considered. 3/8-ounce double Colorado spinnerbaits are the ideal choice for murky water, as they provide a perfect combination of vibration and flash. Remember, the water is a bit darker, so you need to grab the fish’s attention through any means.
As for colors, we like to keep them a bit darker. This may seem counterintuitive, but we don’t want the fish to see something unnatural peering through the murky water. We’re essentially drawing them in with the blade and hoping they’ll see the skirt as something more naturally colored.
Blades of the spinnerbait should also be considered when fishing in muddy water. Colorado blades are ideal for muddy water, as they create a lot of vibration and are more visible in the water column.
Colorado blades are designed to remain visible even when the spinnerbait is fished at high speeds, which is beneficial for fishing in murky water.
It is also essential to consider the techniques for using spinnerbaits effectively in muddy water. When targeting shallow cover, a slow to medium retrieve and contact technique should be employed, while a quick retrieve with the rod tip held high is recommended for fishing in deeper water.
Varying the retrieve speed, incorporating pauses, and adjusting the depth can also be beneficial when fishing with spinnerbaits in muddy water.
It takes a bit of practice to get really good at fishing in murky water, but with these bass fishing tips, you’ll land the big bass in no time.
Warm conditions.
When fishing in warm water conditions, spinnerbaits can be an effective choice. Willow leaf blades are the most effective choice for spinnerbaits, as they allow for faster retrieves and are more successful when quickly retrieved.
The Lunkerhunt Impact Thump Colorado Blade Spinnerbait is an excellent option for mid-summer when the water is warmest and bass are most active. Additionally, the color and size of the spinnerbait should also be taken into consideration when fishing in warm conditions. Bright colors such as chartreuse or white should be used, as they are more visible in the water column.
Furthermore, anglers should also consider the techniques for using spinnerbaits effectively in warm water. The “helicopter” technique allows the lure to sink to the bottom on a tight line before reeling in the slack and raising the rod tip slightly before dropping it again. Additionally, the contact technique involves bumping against structure and employing a slow to medium retrieve, while the wake technique requires a quick retrieve with the rod tip held high, allowing the lure to remain visible and high in the water.
By choosing the right spinnerbait for the right conditions, you can maximize your chances of success when bass fishing in warm water.
Cold Conditions
Regarding cold weather conditions, spinnerbaits with round blades, such as Indiana or Colorado blades, are known to be effective. These blades offer a slower presentation, which is ideal for colder temperatures. Additionally, using a trailer hook can also be beneficial in cold water, as it can help increase the chance of hooking the bass. Furthermore, anglers often favor spinnerbaits with lighter weights for cold weather fishing, as the lighter weight allows for a slower, more subtle presentation.
It is essential to identify and focus on areas with a high likelihood of fish presence when using spinnerbaits in cold conditions. Fish often congregate in areas with natural cover, such as logs and rocks, as these areas shelter them from the cold. Also, anglers should be aware of potential obstacles they may encounter while navigating, such as weeds and submerged objects.
By understanding the optimal conditions and techniques for fishing with spinnerbaits in cold weather, anglers can increase their chances of success.
Bump Into Structure
Spinnerbaits are an effective tool for making contact with the structure when fishing for bass. This technique, known as the “helicopter” technique, allows the lure to sink to the bottom on a tight line, followed by reeling in any slack and raising the rod tip slightly before dropping it again. This allows the lure to make contact with the structure and helps draw the bass’s attention.
Sound and vibration travel very well through the water. So when your lure bumps into the floor or reef, bass can detect this. This “bump” then gets their attention, and that is when the blade and skirt do the rest of the job.
In muddy water, it is essential to use blades designed to create a larger vibration and noise. Willow leaf blades are ideal for this type of water, as they create a loud vibration that attracts bass. Also, anglers can employ the slow-roll technique when fishing in muddy water. This technique involves casting towards shallow water and pointing the rod tip down. The retrieval should be done very slowly, just fast enough for the blades to turn, allowing the bait to sink as it swims.
In clear water, it is essential to use blades designed to create a smaller vibration and noise. Colorado blades are preferred in these conditions, as they make a subtle presentation that is suitable for clear water. Also, anglers can employ the contact technique when fishing in clear water. This technique involves bumping against the structure and using a slow to medium retrieve.
By varying the depth of the lure and bumping structures, anglers can draw the attention of the bass and entice them to take the bait.
Reel it in.
Reeling in a spinnerbait is an integral part of bass fishing. Many anglers rely on spinnerbaits as their go-to lure for bass fishing. This is because they can catch fish in various locations and conditions.
The slow-roll technique is one of the most successful ways to fish with spinnerbaits when targeting bass. This technique involves casting towards shallow water and pointing the rod tip down. The retrieval should be done very slowly. You want it just fast enough for the blades to turn, allowing the bait to sink as it swims. Maybe let it bump a structure here or there.
This technique allows anglers to target structure, attract bass, and increase their chances of success.
Top 5 spinnerbaits for bass fishing.
Now that we have discussed when to use spinnerbaits let’s look at the top 5 spinnerbaits for bass fishing. These are some of the best spinnerbaits our experts recommend if you want to generate more bass hits.
All of these spinnerbaits can be used in various conditions, with a selection of colors to choose from. Each spinnerbait head has been designed with a unique shape, size, and features to maximize its effectiveness.
Whether you’re night fishing or casting in the daylight, here are our top 5 spinnerbaits for bass fishing.
Strike King Finesse KVD Spinnerbait (Double Willow Blades)
There’s a reason this bad boy from Strike King is number one on our list. We’re sure you will catch more bass with this spinner.
The Strike King Finesse KVD Spinnerbait is an excellent choice for bass fishing due to its design and components. It is crafted with a smaller Perfect Skirt and boasts natural colors for a realistic appearance and a reduced profile in the water. The spinnerbait head is designed with a raked-out gill to reduce drag and increase flash, while the tandem blades create a unique combination of flash and vibration to attract bass.
The Strike King Finesse KVD Spinnerbait features double willow leaf blades for added flash and vibration and an attractant-infused skirt for added appeal.
This high-end spinnerbait has superior components, including a Mustad 1/0 hook and a Magic Tail attachment to provide a more realistic movement when submerged in water.
The Strike King Finesse KVD Spinnerbait is available in various sizes and colors, including white and chartreuse. This allows anglers to choose the perfect size and color for their fishing conditions.
The double willow blades on the Strike King Finesse KVD Spinnerbait provide anglers with a unique combination of flash and vibration. The blades rotate around the spinnerbait head, creating a pulsating effect that will surely draw in bass. Additionally, the blades are designed to mimic the movement of baitfish, which can be irresistible to bass. The blades also give anglers a unique silhouette, allowing them to target bass in various water clarity and light conditions.
This is hands-down our favorite spinner right now. We can’t cast it without bringing in a bass. We’re still trying for trophy bass, but we think we’ll but re with the KVD.
Booyah Pond Magic (Tandem Willow/Colorado Blades)
The Booyah Pond Magic is a small-sized spinnerbait designed to attract fish in large lakes, ponds, and streams. It has a single Colorado spinner blade, a 3D eye, and a vibrant silicone skirt to draw attention and encourage strikes.
This spinner features a 60-strand ultra-fine silicone skirting and top-of-the-line components, such as a Mustad 1/0 hook and a Magic Tail attachment. The Booyah Pond Magic is available in white and chartreuse and can be used in various conditions.
The Booyah Pond Magic is an ideal choice for challenging conditions. This is due to its small Colorado blade for vibration, the flashing pulse of the willow blade, and 20 distinct color patterns.
It is designed to move through vegetation and cover, offering anglers a practical option when targeting bass in heavy cover. Combining the willow leaf and Colorado blades gives anglers a unique silhouette, allowing them to target bass in various light and water clarity conditions.
The Booyah Pond Magic is an excellent choice for bass fishing due to its unique features and design, making it an ideal option for various conditions. We definitely recommend having a few of these in your tackle box. Make sure you have a few colors as well.
Strike King Mini King (Colorado Blade)
The Strike King Mini King spinnerbait is a 1/8-oz lure with a single Colorado Diamond blade and a Diamond Dust head. It is an ideal choice for anglers targeting crappie, smallmouth bass, and white bass.
The Strike King Mini King is available in multiple colors, including black, white, chartreuse, and pink.
The Strike King Mini King blade is designed with diamond beveling to maximize its flash and reflection. This creates a unique flash and vibration that is sure to draw in bass.
As for the head of the spinnerbait, it is designed to create a realistic baitfish silhouette and is equipped with a Mustad Ultra Point hook for maximum penetration and strength.
The Strike King Mini King is a great choice for anglers looking for a smaller spinnerbait with a lot of flash and reflection.
Pradco Booyah Blade (Tandem Willow/Colorado Blades)
The Pradco Booyah Blade is a great option for bass fishing in 2023, boasting a flexible wire frame, a willow blade on the pin, and an auxiliary Colorado blade. It is a great choice for anglers who want to target bass in clear and muddy water, as the combination of blades creates an irresistible vibration and flash. The willow blade provides a lot of flash and vibration, while the Colorado blade adds additional flash and a subtle thump.
The Pradco Booyah Blade also features a 50-strand Bio-Flex silicone hand-tied skirt with realistic 3D red eyes and flared gills. This gives the spinnerbait a natural baitfish presentation that draws in bass and pike.
It is also equipped with a soft plastic-keeper spike that securely holds soft plastics, allowing anglers to customize the presentation.
The Pradco Booyah Blade is an excellent choice for anglers who want to target bass in various conditions and is sure to be a great addition to any tackle box.
Booyah Colorado/Indiana (Tandem Colorado/Indiana Blades)
The Booyah Colorado/Indiana fishing lure boasts a combination of Colorado and Indiana blades, creating a unique flash and vibration to draw in the bass. It has a 55-strand BioFlex silicone skirting and a soft plastic-keeper spike that securely holds soft plastics. The tandem blades are designed to target bass in both shallow and deep water conditions, while the BioFlex skirting provides a realistic baitfish presentation.
The combination of the Colorado and Indiana blades gives the spinnerbait a unique flash that bass can’t resist. The combination of blades also creates a unique sound and vibration that draws bass from any depth. The skirting is designed to move freely in the water and provide a lifelike presentation for the bait.
The Booyah Colorado/Indiana nails them every time. It’s one of our favorites, and we wouldn’t hit the lake without a handful of these in tow.
Spinnerbait FAQs.
As always, you ask, and we answer. We want to do whatever we can to help you catch more fish. So if you have questions, we want to answer them. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about spinnerbaits.
What color spinnerbait is best for bass?
We recommend a clear shad-type color, chartreuse, and white or black spinnerbait for successful bass fishing. These colors offer the best results, especially in clearer waters when you want the bait to go undetected. Remember, you’re trying to fool the bass with realistic-looking bait, so avoid flashy colors.
Are spinnerbaits good for bass?
Spinnerbaits are popular among bass anglers from shallow cover to deeper depths and can be highly effective in the right conditions. With the benefit of multiple blades flashing and vibrating as it moves through the water and a realistic swimming action, spinnerbaits are great for attracting and enticing bass into taking the bait. As for whether they’re the best lure for bass, our experts think it’s a toss-up between plastic worms and spinners. It just depends on the conditions.
What spinners work best for bass?
In general, spinnerbaits are highly effective for largemouth bass, especially in sizes #4 and #5. To target the most active bass, opt for brightly colored spinners containing a tight blade rotation and skirted body. Of course, the water conditions and weather will also play a role. However, that’s a good generalized spinner.
What are inline spinners?
These are a variant of the traditional spinnerbait, where the blades are arranged in a single line which helps the bait to facilitate an incredibly lifelike swimming action. Inline spinners are great for targeting those finicky bass, and their skirted bodies often provide more appeal than regular spinners. They’re also excellent when you need to target a specific depth. This is because you can easily adjust how deep on the line your bait is. We like to keep a few of these in our tacklebox as well.
How to fish with spinnerbait?
Once you cast your spinnerbait, you want to start with a slow retrieve. This allows the blades to spin freely in the water. As you bring it back to you, give your rod tip a few twitches and pauses every now and then. This motion creates more flash and vibration for the bass. Be sure to retrieve at different speeds depending on how active the fish are.
Are chatterbaits and spinnerbaits the same thing?
No, these are two different types of lures. Spinnerbaits feature spinning blades and a skirted body, while chatterbaits have a “chattering” blade and a single jig head, and sometimes a skirted body. Both can be effective depending on the water conditions and the size of the bass you’re targeting. While we love a good chatterbait, we’d recommend spinnerbaits for most anglers. It’s a tremendous all-around lure and is more widely used by fishermen of all levels.
Can you use spinners for trout?
Yes, you absolutely can! While we generally like to use spinnerbaits for bass, they’re also very popular trout fishing lures as well. Although, it’s worth noting that we’ve had more luck with inline spinners when it comes to trout.
Hit the water and do some spinnerbait fishing!
Spinnerbaits are an essential tool in the arsenal of any bass fisherman. Selecting the right combination of components can be the difference between success and failure. With new spinnerbaits released each year, anglers of all skill levels should understand the fundamentals of these lures and become familiar with the top lures.
We’ll update this list and add to it as new and better spinnerbaits become available. So be sure to check back often. You’re sure to draw in some hungry bass with the right combination of blades, skirting, and colors!
About the Author
