Mastering Spinnerbait Fishing (Bruges): Tips, Tricks and Techniques

Spinnerbait fishing, also known as a “witch,” is one of the most versatile and effective techniques in any angler’s inventory, especially when it comes to catching bass and other freshwater species. With its unique design and ability to adapt to various conditions, the “witch” is a must-have lure.

Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned pro, this guide will take you through everything you need to know to master spinnerbait fishing, from selecting the right gear to advanced techniques for catching the big ones.

What is Spinnerbait Fishing (Witches)?

Spinnerbait fishing involves using a lure designed with one or more spinning blades that rotate around a wire arm. These blades create vibration and flash, mimicking the movement of baitfish, making spinnerbaits especially effective at attracting predatory fish.

Types of Spinnerbaits:

• Single Blade Spinnerbaits : These lures have a spinning blade, making them easier to retrieve and ideal for clear water.
• Double-Bladed Spinnerbaits : With two blades, these create more flash and vibration, making them effective in murkier waters.
• Tandem Spinnerbaits : A combination of tandem blades, offering a balance of flash, vibration and versatility for different conditions.

Why are Spinnerbaits Effective?

Spinnerbaits are known for their ability to attract fish in a variety of conditions. The reflection of the blades resembles the scales of baitfish, while the vibrations can attract fish from afar. In addition, spinnerbaits work and are effective all year round. For example, in spring, they are particularly potent, as bass become more aggressive during the spawning season.

How to Choose the Right Spinnerbait

Choosing the right spinnerbait for your conditions can make a big difference in your fishing experience.

Blades and Skirts:

• Blade Types : The most common blade types are Colorado, Willow and Indiana.

Colorado : These produce the most vibration, making them ideal for murky waters.

Willow : They generate more flash and less vibration, which is perfect for clear waters.

Indiana : They are a hybrid, offering a balance of both.

• Skirt Colors : Match the skirt color to local baitfish or water conditions. For example, bright colors like chartreuse work well in murky water, while natural colors like white or shad patterns are better in clear water.

Some examples of skirts are:

Size and Weight:

• For shallow waters (2 to 10 feet), opt for lighter spinnerbaits (1/4 oz to 3/8 oz). For deeper waters, heavier options (1/2 oz to 1 oz) are more effective.

Techniques for Using Spinnerbaits (Witches)Casting and Retrieving:

• Slow-Rolling: Ideal for colder waters, this technique involves a slow, steady retrieve along the bottom.
• Fast Retrieve (“Burning”): A fast retrieve just below the surface, perfect for warmer waters when fish are more aggressive.
• Yo-Yo Technique: Let the spinnerbait fall and then retrieve it in short, quick bursts to imitate a wounded baitfish fleeing.

Fishing in Structures:

• Bass love to hide in structure, so cast your spinnerbait near rocks, brush, logs, or docks. Let the lure bounce off these structures to trigger a bite.

Modifying your Spinnerbait:

• Experiment by changing blades or adding trailers to the hook, whether it's a swimbait, jig craw, or trailer hook. A soft plastic trailer can add more action, while different types of blades can alter vibration and flash to better suit water conditions.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Ignore the Weather:

• Spinnerbait fishing, also known as a “witchbait,” can be weather dependent. On cloudy days, fish tend to be more active near the surface, making a lighter, flashier spinnerbait effective. On sunny days, fish may retreat to deeper water, where a slower, deeper retrieve with a heavier spinnerbait is better.

Incorrect Recovery Speed:

• Finding the right retrieve speed is key. Too fast, and fish may miss; too slow, and the lure may not generate enough action. Adjust your speed based on water temperature and fish activity.

Expert Tips for Advanced Anglers

Match the Baitfish:

• Pay attention to the local baitfish in the area you are fishing. Match the color and size of your spinnerbait to these fish to increase your chances of success.

Night Fishing with Spinnerbaits

• Spinnerbaits are highly effective at night, especially when paired with darker colors like black or purple, which create a strong silhouette against the night sky. Colorado blades are ideal for night fishing due to the increased vibration they create, helping fish locate the lure in low light conditions.

At Novillo Fishing Tackle, we offer a wide variety of spinnerbaits tailored to different needs and conditions. Explore our selection here or at the following link:

Collection of "Witches" Spinnerbaits

And don't forget to share your catches with spinnerbaits in the comments or on our social networks!