Ask 10 bass fisherman how they feel about the use of trailers on spinnerbaits and you’re likely to get almost as many answers.
After reading an article by Kevin VanDam recently discussing his approach to the use of spinnerbait trailers, I was surprised to find his views on using spinnerbait trailers were much like mine.
Generally speaking when fishing during the warmer periods of the year in either clear or stained water neither KVD nor myself use trailers on spinnerbaits. When encountering conditions where the water is significantly colder (during the late fall, throughout the winter or early spring) or when the water is dirty we both agree it’s time to break-out the plastic and add a trailer to our spinnerbaits.
The reasons why not to use a trailer when the water is warm and has relatively high visibility are actually very simple.
When fishing warm and “clear” water you want the spinnerbait to have a relatively small profile therefore appearing more natural. On the other hand, any time we use spinnerbaits when the water is cold or very muddy, the addition of the trailer helps add bulk and a little bit more action to draw the fish’s attention and often induce a strike.
The main choice for a spinnerbait trailer is typically a three or four inch curly tail grub either in chartreuse or white. The reason for selecting chartreuse or white is mainly because you’re looking to add contrast again hopefully to draw attention and help induce a strike.
After threading the trailer on the hook it’s always best to have a drop of super glue to the head of the bait in order to hold it on the shaft of the hook. If you’re also adding a trailer hook to the bait make sure to rig the tale of the grub such that it will not foul on the hook and ruin the retrieve.
So the next time you run your favorite bass water and encounter cold or muddy conditions,remember these tips on spinnerbait trailers to increase your bass catching success.