[VIDEO] Top 5 Baits for Schooling Bass Success

When bass group up and start feeding in schools, having multiple baits ready can be the key to keeping the bite going. In this video, Justin Cooper shares his five-bait rotation for catching more schooling bass throughout the day. Each lure plays a role—from covering water fast to slowing down and triggering pressured fish.

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Start With Reaction Baits

Cooper begins with a deep-diving crankbait whenever fish are active and chasing bait. It’s his go-to for firing up a school and drawing reaction strikes from aggressive bass. Watching his sonar helps him identify when bass rise toward baitfish, signaling it’s time to pick up the crankbait and make a long cast through the group.

Switch Gears When the Bite Fades

When the crankbait bite slows, Cooper transitions to slower baits that keep fish interested. A stand-up worm offers a large profile and subtle action that works well when bass settle to the bottom. He follows with a Carolina rig, which he calls a “fish-catching machine.” It’s ideal for covering structure methodically while still appealing to both numbers and quality fish. A soft jerkbait, small creature bait, or craw imitation all shine behind a 2- to 3-foot leader.

Finish Strong With Clean-Up Baits

As the bite gets tougher, Cooper leans on bottom-contact baits like a football jig and a drop shot. The jig’s dragging action mimics crawfish and triggers fish that won’t chase. Finally, the drop shot becomes his closer—a dependable option for coaxing those last few bites from a school. As Cooper says, “If they won’t hit a drop shot, they just aren’t biting.”