When fishing with swimbaits on pressured lakes, there are a few strategies you can employ to increase your chances of getting more bites. First, it's important to understand that swimbaits are typically larger lures that mimic baitfish, so they can be effective in attracting bigger bass. However, because they are larger and less common, bass in pressured lakes may be more wary of them.
One strategy is to slow down your retrieve. Sometimes, bass in pressured lakes may not be willing to chase a fast-moving bait like a spinnerbait or crankbait. By slowing down your retrieve and using a slower-moving presentation like a jig, worm, drop shot, or split shot, you can entice more bites. This allows the bass to have a longer look at the bait and increases the chances of them striking.
Another strategy is to downsize your lures. If you're not getting any bites with your current swimbait size, try using a smaller swimbait or even a finesse worm. Downsizing your lures can make them appear more natural and less intimidating to the bass, increasing the likelihood of them biting.
Additionally, it's important to pay attention to the conditions of the lake. In the video context, it mentions that the fish were more inactive in clear water with no wind or clouds. In such situations, the fish may be more likely to follow the swimbait back to the boat rather than actually eating it. If you encounter similar conditions, consider making a move to areas with less water clarity or where the fish are more actively feeding.
Overall, the key is to adapt to the specific conditions and behavior of the bass in pressured lakes. Experiment with different retrieves, lure sizes, and locations until you find what works best. Remember to maintain a positive attitude, pay attention to details like hook sharpness, and always be open to learning something new.