John Cox teaches us how to effectively fish a swim jig through lily pads and other shallow cover in this Florida bass fishing session. Using a fast-paced retrieve, Cox targets bass holding in a mix of dense vegetation and artificial cover, showcasing the swim jig’s versatility and effectiveness.
Featured Products
- JIG – Berkley PowerBait Swim Jig, 1/2-ounce: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- TRAILER – Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Stank Bug: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- ROD – Fenwick World Class Casting Rod, 7’5” Medium Heavy – Extra Fast: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- REEL – Abu Garcia Zenon™ X Low Profile Reel, 8.3:1: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE – Berkley X5 Braided Line Lo-Vis Green, 50-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
Swim Jigging Through Lily Pads
Cox employs a fast retrieve to cover water efficiently, making long casts and working the swim jig just beneath the surface. This approach allows him to locate active bass in expansive lily pad fields. He emphasizes the importance of targeting isolated clumps or points within the vegetation, as these areas often hold fish.
Gear Selection for Optimal Performance
A longer, medium-heavy extra-fast action rod paired with a high-speed reel increases casting distance and control. This setup allows Cox to maintain contact with the bait and respond quickly to strikes. His swim jig of choice is the Berkley PowerBait swim jig paired with a Stank Bug trailer. The Berkley MaxScent technology enhances the bait’s appeal, while the streamlined trailer slides through cover with ease.
Adapting to Changing Conditions
Moving from open water to sheltered canals as wind conditions shift, Cox adjusts his retrieve, allowing the jig to fall near targets or flipping it into tight spots without changing rods. This flexibility lets him fish in various environments without spending time re-rigging or changing setups.
Maximizing Bait Effectiveness
Lastly, Cox stresses the importance of keeping the rod tip high to prevent the jig from snagging in vegetation and keeping it in the strike zone longer. He also notes that the swim jig’s design allows it to come through cover cleanly, making it an ideal choice for fishing in heavy vegetation.
Boat Setup
- BOAT – Vexus AVX 2100: Check out at Vexus
- OUTBOARD – Mercury Pro XS 250 hp: Check out at Mercury
- SHALLOW WATER ANCHOR – Power Pole 8 ft. Blades: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- TROLLING MOTOR – Minn Kota Ultrex QUEST, 112lb, 36V, 52″: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- TRUCK – Toyota Tundra: Check out at Toyota
