The propbait, the lure not to forget to make the big peacock-bass react

Propbaits are effective lures on large peacock bass. © Likid Fishing

Propbaits are the lures par excellence to track peacock-bass, but as they are few in our shelves, here are some tips to choose the right model and use them well!

Choose the right model

A propbait is a very simple lure in its shape, it often takes the shape of a stick, but what differentiates it visually is the presence of one or more propellers.

For peacock-bass, it is necessary to choose the floating models of rather large size, around 15 centimeters, and heavy. This allows you to animate them strongly to get the maximum noise, while ensuring that the lure remains well placed on the water and works well, without taking off. The big models are therefore those that work best, even if there are some waves on the surface, conditions that this type of lure does not usually appreciate.

Les propbaits, des leurres incontournables pour la pêche du peacock-bass.
Propbaits, the essential lures for peacock-bass fishing.

Animation

To animate this lure, a short rod with a fast action and a reel fitted with braid are essential. The most common animation for this lure is done with the rod down, it consists in making a strong pull backwards, to recover the excess of thread by putting the rod forward and to repeat a big blow, so on. It is not necessary to bring it back at constant speed.

When traveling, when you want to fish like this all day long and to avoid fatigue, I prefer to perform this movement with the help of my shoulder and my hip, distributing the effort on these parts and not only on the wrist.

A complementary lure

The ability of this lure to annoy large peacock bass is not a legend. On the other hand, the attacks are often defensive and the fish do not always bite on the hooks. The use of this lure can be compared to that of a teaser, which consists in attracting a fish.

Once this one is located, it is advisable to present very quickly another lure. This other lure, often a jig, must be presented quickly before the fish is no longer in the area. It is thus advisable to have a second rod ready to be used.

Tip

To make the lures sound worse, the locals accentuate the slant of the propeller tips with a clamp.

Tordre les hélices des propbaits est une nécessité pour obtenir le bon bruit et créer une grande gerbe d'eau.
Twisting the propellers, as shown on the right, is a necessity to get the right noise and create a large spray.

This gives a deeper sound and you can even say that this trick has become a standard on the spot, since everyone does and advises to do so!

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