Swimbait Fishing
The fishing industry is known for it’s trends. Whether it’s specific baits, techniques, or styles of fishing, they pass with every season. One of the more “recent” trends relates to swimbaits – specifically hard bodied swimbaits. Baits in this category are typically made from wood, plastic, or a combination thereof.
Hard bodied swimbaits have their United States origins on the West Coast within the bass community. While they’re made to catch fish, they’ve become just as much of a collector’s item. The typical swimbait fanatic is unlike other anglers, with a distinctness only rivaled by the baits themselves. They’re often willing to fork out tens to hundreds of dollars for baits that may never hit the water.
In general, most swimbaits are large – very large. In fact, many of them resemble lures that were designed for larger species like pike or musky. The problem? Well, there’s many situations where plus-sized baits just don’t make sense. The solution? A line of hard bodied swimbaits more appropriately sized for species of all sizes.
Enter, the Nage (pronounced nah-zh). The Nage is a three-segment shad shaped swimbait available in two sizes: 2.75 inches and 4.75 inches. The swimbait has a natural swimming action and a realistic design – making it an ideal choice for any species.
At 3/16 oz, the micro Nage is perfect for fishing on a bait finesse (BFS) setup or other ultralight setup. Meanwhile, the 4.75-inch version is better fished on a typical medium-heavy baitcaster setup.
When Eurotackle set out to develop a swimbait, one of the main objectives was to develop a micro swimbait that could be fished in a variety of ways. After months of use, it’s safe to say that it’s versatility is overwhelming.
The primary method for fishing the Nage is on a steady retrieve. Make a long cast and reel it fast, slow, or anywhere in between. A slow retrieve really highlights how well the lure imitates bait species of all types. A fast retrieve allows for a more erratic motion. When coupled with pauses, the bait will turn 90-degrees making it appear to be looking behind it.
If gliding or jerking is more your style, you’re in luck - the Nage was developed with these in mind. It’s design allows the user to twitch and jerk the bait like those in the glide bait and jerkbait categories. It can be paused on a dime, while it’s slow-sinking action allows it to hover in place momentarily.
The Nage can also fished on the surface. With the rod tip pointed up and a steady retrieve, the bait functions more similar to a topwater bait.
The Nage will work in most environments, but it’s talents shine in shallower conditions. Although it’s only been available to the general public for a few weeks, the Nage is already proving itself. We’ve seen everything from bluegills and crappies to bass and trout to muskies and pike eating the bait.
Swimbaits don’t have to be big to catch big fish. Do yourself a favor and try them out. With six color schemes, there’s an option for any conditions and any species.
