Mastering Ledge Fishing: Tips, Techniques & the Best Soft Plastics for Big Bass
Mastering Ledge Fishing: Tips, Techniques & the Best Soft Plastics for Big Bass
If you're chasing big bass during the summer months, ledge fishing should be at the top of your game plan. When bass move offshore to deeper structure, ledges become a hot zone and knowing how to approach them can mean the difference between a slow day and a personal best.
In this guide, we'll break down what ledge fishing is, why it's effective, and how to rig soft plastic fishing lures that consistently get bites.
What is Ledge Fishing?
Ledge fishing refers to targeting underwater drop offs, typically river channel edges or humps, that offer a sudden change in depth. These ledges act like highways for baitfish and a buffet line for bass. During post spawn and into the dog days of summer, bass school up on these offshore structures, making them prime real estate for anglers who know how to work them.
Trending Techniques for Ledge Fishing
No matter where you're targeting offshore structure, these trending tactics are proving effective for ledge fishing success:
1. Carolina Rigging Soft Plastics
Pairing a creature bait or fluke style soft plastic on a Carolina rig is deadly when bass are finicky. The slower presentation lets your lure stay in the strike zone longer.
2. Texas Rigged Ribbon Tail Worms
A 10-inch ribbon tail worm is a classic for a reason. Weighted with a 3/8 oz tungsten bullet weight, it falls perfectly along the drop, triggering reaction bites.
3. Drop Shot for Suspended Bass
Use finesse soft plastics, like minnow style baits, to target bass holding just off the bottom. Match it with a 1/4 oz drop shot weight and fish vertically using your electronics.
4. Football Jigs with Soft Plastic Trailers
Don't overlook a good crawfish imitation trailer on a football jig. Bounce it along the ledge and feel every rock and bump, just be ready for a thump!
Pro Tips for Ledge Success
- Scan Before Your Cast: Use side imaging and forward facing sonar to find bait balls and active schools
- Change Cadence: Sometimes a dead stick approach with a soft plastic stickbait works better than a constant retrieve.
- Color Matters: In clear water, go with green pumpkin or watermelon. In stained water, try junebug, black & blue or red shad.
Must Have Soft Plastics for Ledge Fishing
- Ribbon Tail Worms: Ideal for deep, summer bass. Their long, sweeping tails create maximum movement and attract attention in deeper water.
- Craw-style Baits: Great as jig trailers or Texas rig options. The kicking claws mimic natural forage and trigger aggressive strikes.
- Fluke-style Baits: Perfect for drop shots or Carolina rigs. Their darting action is effective for targeting suspended or schooling bass.
- Stickbaits (Senko-Style baits): Versatile for shaky heads or weightless presentations. Their subtle fall and natural look make them deadly on pressured fish.
- Durable Baits: Choose baits made with high-quality material for lifelike action and better durability, so you get more bites per bait.
Final Tips for Ledge Fishing Success
- Be Patient and Thorough: Ledge Fishing often requires precise casting and slow presentations. Work the area methodically and don't rush, sometimes the bite turns on after multiple passes.
- Use Your Electronics Wisely: Locate schools of bait and structure first, then dial in on bass holding tight to breaks, brush, or shell beds.
- Mix Up Your Presentation: Don't rely on one rig or retrieval speed. Rotate between dragging, hopping, and dead-sticking soft plastics until you figure out what the fish want.
- Pay Attention to Current and Wind: Moving water can position bass more predictably on ledges. Fish the up-current side and note any subtle changes in flow.
- Keep Color Selection Simple: Stick with proven color patterns, Natural tones in clear water and darker or more vibrant colors in stained conditions.
With the right soft plastics, a good understanding of structure, and a willingness to experiment, ledge fishing can produce some of the biggest bass of the season.
Stay observant, stay adaptable, and let your electronics and lure choices work together to unlock the bite.