Among the most classic of all largemouth and smallmouth bass lures is the traditional rubber worm. Those who are new to rubber worms might not be 100% sure how to actually use the lures to get strike after strike from bass great and small. There are a few specific points to keep in mind when using a rubber worm. Following these suggestions will increase the chances the lure evokes a response in a hungry freshwater predator.

Not a Substitute for Live Bait

Newbies who never used worm lures before might think the rubber creatures sold in bait and tackle shops are used in the same manner as nightcrawlers. Putting a rubber worm on a hook and allowing it to sink just below a plastic bobber is a great way to waste time, not to catch fish. Real nightcrawlers squirm and move while on a hook. Bass end up being attracted to the movement. A rubber worm does not move unless you are the one who gives the line a bit of action. So, it is best to do a little research into how to best cast and reel in the lure. Otherwise, you could drop the lure right under the nose of a bass and the fish won't give the lure even a split-second of attention.

Confirm the Hook and Weight Size

The Texas Rig is the most popular way to setup a rubber worm on a hook. The Texas Rig requires placing a leaded weight on top of the worm and then piercing the upper half of the lure with a hook. Matching the right size hook and weight with a particular lure is a must. An ultra-heavy weight on too small of a worm is going to look unnatural and will sink the lure to the bottom too quickly. As a result, the worm does not display realistic action. A very small hook on a long worm leaves much of the worm's body free of anything that will pierce a fish's mouth. Always ask the person working the counter at the bait and tackle shop for hooks and weights appropriate for the lure.

Putting the Right Action on the Lure

During hot weather months, twitching and slow reeling in of the lure may be more than enough to attract hungry predators. In colder months, the fish might be less inclined to eat, but they will attack a lure acting threatening and aggressive. Viciously yanking the rubber worm through the water could very well annoy bass into striking. Always find out what the suggested action is when using the lure as seasons change.

Sure, a little trial and error may be required to get the hang of rubber worm fishing. That is all part of the fun of using lures for bass. To find out more, visit a website like http://www.wilcoxbaitandtackle.com/.