Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - November/December 2022 - 29

deeper water, casting a fixed
float is impossible due to the
long leader. Here, it is better
to use a slip float. This float
style moves freely on the line
until it reaches a bobber stop,
which determines the depth.
Bobber stops affix to the line
and are small enough to pass
through the rod guides to
permit unrestricted casting.
During the cold water
season, expect to find
Largemouth Bass near the
bottom. Begin by setting the
float (or bobber stop), so the
fly is about 12 inches off the
bottom. From there, adjust it
in 6-inch increments.
Choose jighead weights
based on desired rate of
fall. The water is typically
clear during the cold water
months, so quick descents
may startle wary Largemouth
Bass. Use 1/16- and 1/8-ounce
jigheads to target bass
hanging along sloping
breaklines or mid-depth
transition zones. Switch to
panfish offerings (1/64- and
1/32-ounce) in the shallows.
The type and quantity
To set up a float-and-fly rig with a slip float, affix a
bobber stop on the line at the desired depth, followed by
a small bead. Run the line through the float, then end
with a hair jig.
My catch rates improved when I ditched traditional tactics
in favor of a float-and-fly rig. This rigging method suspends a
" fly " at a fixed depth beneath a float. The fly is not something
one sees on a fly vise. It is an ordinary hair jig comprised of
natural or synthetic materials, crudely resembling a baitfish.
Floats suspend a jig indefinitely, and their visual
component keeps me in check. While I often overwork
a jerkbait, I find it easy to leave a float rest for extended
periods. When I do move the rig, I impart subtle twitches
that are less intrusive.
A properly balanced float sits at its waterline without
adding shot to the line. It is ultra-responsive to movement, yet
unassuming to a biting fish.
Fixed floats are the most sensitive-and the best choice-
for lightweight jigs in single-digit depths. When targeting
of feathers or fibers also
influences the rate of fall.
Marabou hackle, kiptail,
bucktail, and craft fur are
popular tying materials. A few
natural tones like black, white,
and olive cover all bases.
Many bass anglers fish the
fly on its own, allowing the
hair to undulate and attract.
In cold water, I place a great importance on scent. I often
tip the jig with live bait, biodegradable plastics, or scented
softbaits. I have even doubled down by lathering the jighead
with attractant. Softbaits also slow drop speeds by adding
buoyancy and increasing water resistance.
Most medium-light power spinning rods are adequate.
Technique specific rods exceed 8-feet, necessary for casting
long leaders beneath fixed floats, and carry moderate
actions, which flex closer to the midpoint to help prevent
breakoffs with light lines.
I use monofilament line, because it tolerates cold weather
and has a bit of stretch. Jigs perform best on small-diameter
lines, so I use 4- or 6-pound-test line, depending on jig size.
When cold water Largemouth Bass won't commit,
slow your approach, and let the fish come to you.
November/December 2022
29
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - November/December 2022

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