Soft Baits

Types of Soft Baits

The shape of the body and tail sets the action. Pick the shape that matches the prey in your water and the speed you want to fish.

• Needle tail: a thin, quivering tail for slow, subtle presentations.
• Noodle and stick baits: long, straight bodies that fall slowly and shake on a slack line.
• Eel and loach baits: long, slim bodies that swim with a snake-like wiggle.
• Sharp tail and single tail: a darting action when you twitch the rod.
• Small fish shapes: a compact baitfish profile for perch, trout and other small predators.

How to Rig Soft Baits

The rig decides how the bait moves and how well it comes through cover. Start simple and change rigs as the fish tell you.

• Jig head: thread the bait on straight, then cast and hop or swim it back.
• Texas rig: bury the hook point back in the plastic so it slides through weeds and wood.
• Wacky rig: hook the bait through the middle so both ends flutter as it sinks.
• Neko rig: add a small nail weight to one end so the bait stands and shakes on the bottom.

Colour, Size and Scent

In clear water, natural colours and smaller baits usually work well. In stained water or low light, glow, glitter and dual colour baits stand out more.

Many anglers add a scent attractant to soft plastic lures. It can make fish hold on a little longer, which gives you more time to set the hook.

Soft Baits FAQ