Crankbaits perform best when they come back to you in a straight line. Cliff Pace discusses why your crankbaits need to be tuned and how to tune a bait with a simple twist of the bait eye.
FEATURED TACKLE
- CRANKBAIT – Black Label Tackle Prowler MR (medium runner) Crankbait
- ROD – TFO-Temple Fork Outfitters Resolve Bass Rod (ICAST 2022 launch – currently unavailable)
- REEL – Savage Gear SG8 100 Casting Reel, 6.6:1
- LINE – HI-SEAS 100% Fluorocarbon, 12-pound
So why does it matter? As Pace discusses, a straight running bait reaches its maximum running depth and deflects off cover with less snagging. Simply grab a needle-nosed plier and make a subtle bend of the line tie the opposite direction the bait is running. If it’s veering to the left, bend the eye slightly to the right. It’s easy to overcompensate, so a small bend usually corrects the issue.
While most crankbaits and plugs come tuned, the simple act of fishing them, fighting fish, and just regular wear and tear knocks them out of whack from time to time. Follow this guide to get them back on track.
