Spinnerbait

A spinnerbait is a bent wire bait with one or more spinning metal blades on one arm and a skirted lead head with a hook on the other. The blades flash and thump as the bait moves through the water, which helps bass find it even when visibility is low. This makes it one of the most reliable choices for stained or muddy water.

Anglers cast it past cover like laydowns, grass edges, and riprap, then reel it back at a steady pace just under the surface. The blades spin as soon as the bait starts moving, so a slow, steady retrieve is often all it takes. It also works well as a search bait, letting you cover a lot of water quickly to find where the fish are holding.

• Willow blades: more flash, less vibration, good for clear water
• Colorado blades: more thump, less flash, good for muddy water
• Tandem blades: a mix of both, useful in mixed conditions

A practical tip: let the spinnerbait bump into cover like stumps or rocks, then pause briefly before continuing the retrieve. That small deflection often triggers a strike from a bass sitting tight to the structure. Pair it with other reaction baits like lipless vibration baits when the bite is tough.