Southern bass tournaments have taught pro bass angler Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson the need to be proficient with a wide range of crankbaits, especially on reservoirs with a shad forage base. Gussy shares his go-to balsa crankbait lineup, ranging from shallow, mid-depth, deep-divers to flat-sides and round-bodied lures. He explains when to use each and how he approaches crankbait colors based on the predominant forage.
TACKLE USED
CRANKBAITS
- Bagley Balsa Flat B, 0-3 feet
- Bagley Balsa Pro Sunny B, 5-6 feet
- Bagley Balsa Sunny B, for 5-8 feet
- Bagley Balsa Diving B, B1 (7-8ft), and B2 (12-12ft)
While crankbaits haven’t historically been Gussy’s go-to bass bait at home (Northwest Ontario), he’s become a big fan of balsa models as of late at home and abroad down south. Their buoyant, super-natural wiggle excels for northern bass on clear water fisheries and dingy southern reservoirs alike.
Gussy ties water temperature to bait shape and action, opting for subtler flat-sided models during the spring and fall and more aggressive squarebill and conventional round-bodied baits in warmer water.
OTHER TACKLE
- TOURNAMENT TREBLES – Gamakatsu Aaron Martens TGW Nano G-Finesse Treble Hook
- TACKLE BOX – Plano EDGE Professional 3700 Deep Box
ROD SETUP
- ROD – G. Loomis IMX Pro Crankbait Casting Rod, 7’6″ Medium 903 CBR
- REEL – Shimano Batam MGL, 6.2:1
- SUNGLASSES – Costa Del Mar Reefton
