Author: Tim Birss
If you're fond of a little freshwater flicking, then I'm sure the name Australian bass is not a newie. These Aussie battlers are a popular drawcard of our southern lakes and dams where these beauties really reign supreme. But it's not only the impoundments where bass strut their stuff, with plenty of wild models also found in the upper reaches of our rivers and estuaries. So, what makes this species so good? I'll happily tell you! For a small fish they've got a lot to offer. From their stunning looks and exquisite colouring, their incredible pulling power that pound for pound rivals just about anything with fins, and their healthy appetite that has many different baits and lures ringing the ole bass dinner bell. That last one is what we're here to talk about though! While some days you can't put a foot wrong and it's like catching bass in a barrel, other days you really need to be chucking the right lure to get a bass bite.
Here are 5 of my favourites lures that can hopefully help you get connected to a bass or two on your next fishing trip.
Blades and hardbodies are great for the first-time Fisho!
Blades and Lipless Crankbaits
These have been a staple in the bass box for years and for good reason! There's just something about a lipless crank that puts bass in a well 'cranky mood'. These lures are also known for being easy to use and the perfect choice for the fishing first timer. Lipless cranks are a flat sided, sinking lure that move through the water with a distinct wobbling action. This wobble mixed with a large in-built rattle can call fish from both near and far. You can work them slow, you can work them fast, you can even hop them – whatever you wish you'll catch fish! Now there's a variety of ripper makes and models lining the shelves of your local BCF store but some of the best are Jackall TN60 and Nomad Swimtex Vibe 66mm
Shop our full range of blades and lipless crankbaits here.
Whether trolling or casting, you can't go wrong with a hardbody
Hardbodied Divers
No bass collection is complete without a few hardbodies! It's a lure with more than a few tricks up its sleeve and one that plenty of bass fishos just can't get enough of! Feel like dropping a few lures out the back and going for a lazy troll, this one's for you! You're flicking the lake edges or weed fringes, she'll do those too! What makes these guys such a ripper choice is the diving depth. You can choose a lure that dives to a certain depth, so if you know where ole bassy's sitting in the water column you're sure to be onto a winner. Now there's no shortage of bass divers out there! They come in that many shapes, sizes, colours and of course diving depths, the problem is choosing one. If you don't know where to begin you can't go wrong with JJ's StumpJumper 55mm and RMG Poltergeist 50mm
Shop our full range of freshwater hardbody lures here.
It's no secret softies catch bass!
Soft Plastic
It's no secret that softies catch bass! Since they first hit the market many, many moons ago the Aussie bass fishing fraternity have embraced them with open arms and fish with open mouths! The recipe for their success is diversity, and with a seemingly endless amount of shapes, sizes, and colours, you'll have no dramas finding a bait to suit your bass! Not only do the profiles vary but the ways they can be worked do too. During summer when the fish are as fiery as that big yellow thing in the sky, a faster approach will get the job done, while winter time it's low and slow that's the only way to go! You know the old saying about elephants eating peanuts? Well, it rings true with these bad boys – or should we say 'bad bass'. They'll have a crack at just about anything that'll fit in their gob, but if you keep it between 2-4 inch you'll be on the money. If you're looking for something that rings the bass dinner bell here's a few pearlers. Charlie Brewer's Slider Grub and Daiwa BaitJunkie Minnow 3.2in
Shop our full range of soft plastics here.
Ole bassy loves these funny looking lures!
Spinnerbaits
A lure that's high on the go-to list for many bass fisho's is the spinnerbait! Although funny looking, the combination of spinning blades and colourful skirts sure does drive the bass wild. This is another lure that you don't need to be a rocket scientist to operate, which gets a big tick of approval from those new to the game. Heavy and slow seems to be the ticket here, making sure the lure makes contact with the bottom before you impart a slow but constant retrieve. Some days bass like it a bit quicker so don't be afraid to change it up, and the occasional pause will some days do the trick. There are two distinct blade types used on a spinnerbait – both with their own pros and cons. Some use willow blades that are thinner and longer in shape, they catch less water, and cut through the wet stuff easier. Others use colorado blades that are shorter and rounder in shape, they create greater water displacement and a more solid vibration. If you can't make up your mind some models come with one of each – best of both worlds. There's no shortage of colours, sizes and weights to choose from but if you need a helping hand take a look at these beauties. Bassman Double Colorado Spinnerbait and Gangster Bidgee Spinnerbait 1/2oz
Shop our full range of spinnerbaits here.
Nothing better than catching a bass off the top
Surface Lures
Surface fishing does it get much better! Arguably the best and most visual form of lure fishing, when you tie one of these babies to the end of your line you know it's about to get reel! When people think surface there's a few species that spring to mind such as barramundi, bream, GT's and even trout love the top, but what about bassy? Well, this is one species that goes under the radar of most, but for those in the know, top water bassing's the way to go. The way you can get these lures to dance across the surface of the water, whether it's a pop, glide or even a fizz, bass simply can't resist! Now you can't get away with just any old lure, it's important to choose the correct shape, size, and colour for the water you're fishing. If insects make up a large portion of their diet then insects it is, same with bait fish and frogs the list goes on and on. Some days it's a slow retrieve with plenty of stops and starts, other days a fast burn all the way to your feet. When it comes to bass on surface, remember low light to get the bite! BCF is your one stop shop for surface lure lovers, with more topwater tackle than you can poke a fishing rod at. Here's just a taste of the topwater treats we've got for you Tiemco Soft Shell Cicada 40mm and Bassday Suga Pen 95mm
Shop our full range of freshwater surface lures here.
Bass are like a Sudoku puzzle with fins! At times they'll have you scratching your head with no idea what to try next, but if you throw a few of these puppies in your bass kit it's safe to say you've got a good chance of cracking the bass puzzle. There is no bass silver bullet! Some lures work extremely well while others do a better job as a keyring. All of the above have pulled more than their fair share of bronze battlers so get out there on the fresh and put em’ to the test.
Whether you'd rather shop at your local BCF store or prefer the comfort of ordering through our click & collect service, we have everything you need to tangle with any number of our fishy friends - Get geared up and get out there with BCF today!
About the author
Tim Birss
Timmy's part of the BCFing furniture! With over 14 years of experience. The Noosa native loves nothing more than wetting a line but knows his way around a boat and campsite all the same. With his knowledge and know how he's here to help!
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