3 Go-To Shad Spawn Lures for Bass Fishing

Bass fishing during the shad and herring spawn can lead to fast and furious fishing, but the question arises, “what baits should I have tied on?” Lake Lanier bass guide Rob Jordan keeps lure selection simple and shares his top 3 moving baits, which consist of a walking topwater bait, spinnerbait, and small paddle tail swimbait.

TACKLE USED:

Jordan’s shad spawn program follows this basic strategy:

  1. Spinnerbaits. According to Jordan, you always need to try a spinnerbait, as it effectively mimics a ball of fleeing shad. The essential tip here is to match blade size to that of the shad or herring you’re fishing around and fish it fast to trigger strikes.
  2. Swimbaits. Small swimbaits in the 3-inch range excel in clear water conditions (calm and sunny), basically whenever conditions turn tough and bass are responding to faster-moving power presentations.
  3. Topwater baits. Topwater lures excel in the morning or whenever bass are busting baitfish on the surface. Jordan favors walking baits, especially on herring lakes, but will often reach for a buzzbait in shallow water situations.

Follow these tips to simplify your tackle selection and improve your success during the spring shad spawn. 

OTHER GEAR:

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