The "TIP UP" Tip

When fishing soft plastics on the bottom, keep your rod tip high, especially in the wind. This will help ensure a tighter line and you can better detect subtle bites! I keep mine between 10 and 11 o'clock as I feel even the slightest sensations through my line and rod at that position. As we've discussed before, it is often difficult to detect subtle bites however, if I'm thinking that I may have just been bit, I'm swinging for the fence! But if you just aren't sure and you can't stand the thought of donating another jig head to another log, simply ease back on the rod a little bit and watch your line. If it moves or feels spongy, or you feel like you lost contact with the lure, rip some lips! Remember, they're not going to hold it long so don't be afraid to pull back against them a little if you are not certain. It is only natural that their prey will try and escape the clutch of their jaws and that' what it will feel like to them when you lightly pull back. Most times they will attempt to get the prey further into their mouths and you will feel another, and most of the time, a better bite! Hope this helps and remember, TIP UP!

Keep your rod tip high when fishing soft plastics on the bottom in order to detect subtle bites!