Top 4 Bass Lures to use in January

Jerkbait- A good suspending jerkbait can be devastating in January.

The bass are slow and will not chase down crankbaits so the next best thing is a Jerkbait.

I like the Shimano Zumverno 95 SP. This thing casts a mile and is detailed to look like the shad that are in my lake. 

When choosing a jerkbait it’s crucial to select one that is lifelike and matches the shad that’s in the lake.

Why?

Because in between jerks, that bait is going to suspend and the bass can get a good look at it. If it’s not realistic, that fish is swimming away!

Jig- I know…I know… jigs work year round right? Here me out here.

What’s so great about using a jig in January is the speed at which you can retrieve them.

A jig is perfect in January because it can be retrieved slowly on the bottom with pauses that let the bass examine it at a slower pace.

I like to downsize in January Strike King ⅛-ounce Bitsy Bug in black and blue. 

Finesse Worm- It’s hard to beat a finesse worm in January.

When rigged on a drop-shot rig, this worm can be held in place or worked along the bottom at a VERY slow pace.

Are we sensing a theme here?

In January, it’s all about selecting lures that can be presented slowly.

I like the 4.5-inch Zoom Finesse Worm in the Black Grape color.

Remember, fishing a finesse worm on a drop-shot rig isn’t the same as in the summer.

Don’t pop it or jerk it. In January, it’s best to barely drag it across the bottom and wait to feel the bite. 

Stick Bait- A small stick bait on a Ned Rig is my personal favorite for January bass.

I like to use a 2.75-inch TRD made by Z-Man.

The bait is perfectly sized to dredge the bottom for cold water bass.

Much like working a jig on the bottom a stick bait can be retrieved at a very slow pace and resembles a baitfish searching for food along the bottom.