Fishing with lizard lures is a versatile technique that can be highly effective for bass fishing, especially during certain times of the year. Here's a rundown of the proper techniques based on the video context provided:
Rigging the Lizard: Start by Texas rigging your lizard lure. This involves threading the lizard onto a hook so that the lure is weedless. You can use a bullet weight above the hook to help the lure sink, but sometimes you might leave it weightless or use a light sinker, like an eighth ounce, to allow for a slower fall.
Line and Hook Selection: Depending on the cover you're fishing and the size of the lizard, you'll want to use a heavier line, typically 17 to 25 lb test line for pitching into heavy cover. For hooks, a straight shank hook is often recommended, and the size should match the size of your lizard lure. For a 4-inch lizard, a size 2 EWG (Extra Wide Gap) hook is a good choice.
Pitching and Flipping: These are precise casting techniques used to place the lizard lure into specific areas where bass are likely to be hiding, such as around stumps, boat docks, lily pad stems, or cattails. The idea is to get the lure into tight spots without spooking the fish.
Working the Lizard: Once your lizard is in the water, work it slowly to mimic natural prey. This can involve twitching the rod tip to give the lizard a lifelike movement. In shallow water, you can even swim the lizard just under the surface to entice bass to strike.
Seasonal Tactics: Lizard lures are particularly effective in the spring when bass are in shallow water, with water temperatures between 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. During this time, bass may be hunting for bedding areas, and the lizard's profile and movement can trigger aggressive bites.
Color and Clarity: Choose your lizard color based on water clarity. Green pumpkin is a versatile color that works well in clear to moderately stained water. In murkier conditions, darker colors may be more effective. Adding a chartreuse or orange dye to the tail can enhance visibility and attractiveness.
Carolina Rigging: While not as commonly used by Randy Blaukat, a Carolina rig can also be an effective way to fish a lizard, especially in deeper water or when bass are more spread out.
Remember, the key to successful lizard fishing is to adjust your technique to the conditions you're facing, from the weight of your sinker to the speed of your retrieve. Experiment with different presentations and pay attention to how the bass are reacting to find the most effective method for the day.