Great question! Using a Senko on a shaky head rig can be incredibly effective, and the best time to use this setup can depend on several factors, including the season, water conditions, and the behavior of the bass.
Based on the video context provided, here are some key insights:
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Seasonal Timing:
- Late Pre-Spawn: As mentioned in the "Here It Is!… A 30-Minute Shaky Head/Wacky Rig Seminar…" video, bass often stage on secondary points in coves during the late pre-spawn period. Water temperatures in the mid to upper 50s are ideal for this technique.
- Highly Pressured Waters: According to "7 JUICY Ways to RIG a SENKO (BEST PLASTIC LURE EVER?)", using a Senko on a shaky head is particularly effective in highly pressured bodies of water where bass might be wary of more common presentations.
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Water Conditions:
- Clear Water: The shaky head rig is great for clear water conditions where bass can be more finicky. The finesse presentation of a Senko on a shaky head can entice bites from bass that might ignore other lures.
- Bottom Composition: As noted in the "5 Ways to Rig a Senko - How to Fish - Bass Fishing Tips and Techniques" video, the shaky head can navigate through various bottom compositions like rock or light grass better than some other rigs.
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Bass Behavior:
- Finesse Presentation: When bass are in a more aggressive mood or when you need a finesse presentation, a Senko on a shaky head can be a game-changer. The subtle action of the Senko combined with the shaky head's ability to keep the bait in the strike zone can trigger bites from both lethargic and active bass.
- Pressure Situations: If you're fishing in areas with a lot of fishing pressure, the shaky head rig with a Senko can be a less intrusive and more appealing option for bass that have seen a lot of other lures.
Technical Tips:
- Equipment: You can use both spinning and baitcasting setups for this rig, depending on your preference and the specific conditions. For example, Keith Poche prefers using baitcasting equipment for this rig in pressured areas, as mentioned in the "7 JUICY Ways to RIG a SENKO (BEST PLASTIC LURE EVER?)" video.
- Hook and Jig Head: Using a quality jig head like the Picasso Shakedown or the Gamakatsu Tricky Head can make a big difference. These jig heads have strong hooks and durable screw lock keepers, ensuring you don't miss bites and your rig stays intact.
In summary, the best time to use a Senko on a shaky head rig is during the late pre-spawn, in clear water, and in highly pressured fishing areas. This setup excels when you need a finesse presentation to entice finicky bass. Happy fishing, and tight lines!