When water stays clear and sunlight stays high, Lane leans on double willow blades paired with natural shad colors. These blades create flash without overpowering fish. As a result, bass react naturally instead of spooking. However, as water turns murkier or wind increases, blade size matters more. Colorado/Indiana blades displace more water and create stronger vibration. Because of that, they help bass locate your spinnerbait even when visibility drops. At the same time, brighter colors like chartreuse boost visibility.

We tested the newest jig skirts and silicone skirt tabs from Do-It Molds. The addiction of bass lure making is real.

When winter sets in, depth becomes the most important factor. Walker looks for docks positioned near creek channels, steep banks, and drop-offs that fall beyond 10 feet of water. These areas naturally funnel bait and provide stable conditions for crappie to gather. Even better, many docks also hold brush around their support poles, creating the perfect combination of overhead cover and underwater structure. When you find one crappie, you often find many more sitting close by.