A swimbait with a paddle tail can be used in various situations when bass fishing. The video contexts provided some insights into when it is appropriate to use this type of bait.
When the bass are feeding near the surface: In the first video, the angler mentions using a paddle tail swimbait with a fast retrieve speed just below the surface. This technique is effective during warmer months, from spring to fall, when bass are more active and looking for prey near the surface. It can be a great alternative to buzzbaits, providing a more subtle approach to entice reaction strikes.
When the bass are feeding off the bottom: The second video discusses using a paddle tail swimbait to mimic bottom-dwelling prey like gobies, sculpin, and crawdads. The angler suggests casting the swimbait out, letting it sit on the bottom, and then slowly crawling it along. This technique works well, especially in winter when crawfish are hibernating and other bottom-dwelling creatures are present.
When bass are in deep water and chasing shad: The third video highlights the use of paddle tail swimbaits in deep water during the summertime. The angler mentions using electronics to locate schools of bass and recommends using a compact, smaller swimbait with a 3/8 jighead. This size closely resembles the smaller shad that bass are feeding on during this time. The retrieve speed can vary depending on the fish's location, and a heavier jighead can create a reaction bite.
When bass are not as aggressive and prefer a more natural look: The fourth video suggests using a paddle tail swimbait when bass aren't as aggressive or when flashier baits like spinnerbaits are turning them off. The swimbait's profile resembles that of a baitfish, providing a more realistic presentation. It can be rigged with a keel weighted hook and fished in various areas such as emergent/submergent weed beds or over the top of weeds.
Based on these video contexts, it is appropriate to use a swimbait with a paddle tail when bass are feeding near the surface, feeding off the bottom, in deep water chasing shad, or when they prefer a more natural presentation. The specific techniques and retrieve speeds may vary depending on the situation, so it's important to adapt to the conditions and observe the behavior of the bass.