Prop Baits For Smallmouth

[Mitch f]

Someone mentioned on this forum one time (and I can't remember who it was) that they wished there was a walking, popping, prop bait. There is a guide on the Menominee river that brags on a bait called a Hubbs Chub that's supposed to do just that. I bought one based on his recommendation and I absolutely hate the bait. Maybe someday someone will create one that does all three things well.

[blue79]

This was killing -em for a couple days last july.Large and Smalls were hitting it.When the largemouth hit it i got it to the boat and there was two bass the same size on it but one got off.That lure never ran right after that.I tried tuning it but it just dont work right anymore.Never did find out the name of it.Would like to buy a couple more.

[Ham]

I like the Kelly J's. The KJ Jr doesn't seem to float. Mine is a slow sinker. I'm going to reduce the size of the hooks it see ifI can get it to float, but it caught fish as is.

[dtrs5kprs]

This was killing -em for a couple days last july.Large and Smalls were hitting it.When the largemouth hit it i got it to the boat and there was two bass the same size on it but one got off.That lure never ran right after that.I tried tuning it but it just dont work right anymore.Never did find out the name of it.Would like to buy a couple more.

Looks like a Rogers bait. The crankbaits were Big Jims, think the props were Hawg Sticks or Hawg Spins. Something close to that.

Woodchopper is great. Boy Howdy is a good plastic bait, especially with a quick cadence. Partial to the old Nip-I-Diddee myself. Couple of sizes, throws well, fishes well fast or slow.

[Evolution]

If you are looking for a monster caller, look no farther: DEPS buzzjet. It may be a $25 lure but this lure drives bass crazy. I have a few of these and fish just flat out smash them. You won't find these at your local walmart, basspro, or cabelas but they can be found at many online fishing sites (tacklewarehouse).

[moguy1973]

One that is over looked the Ozark Mt. Wood chopper. Originally designed and made in my home town of Carthage by two brothers, they were quickly bought out. I still have some that they gave me from back in the 80's. Wish I would have never taken them out of the box now.

They are still made today I think by Luhr Jensen I think. Came in two sizes. Both are really good. I think you can find some on Ebay.

Luhr Jensen was bought out by Rapala a few years back and they continued to make the Woodchopper for a few years but has since discontinued them. Another company called High Roller lures makes a knockoff that works and sounds just like the Woodchopper called the Rip Roller.

[dtrs5kprs]

Still using my woodchoppers from the late 80's. High Roller makes some decent topwater baits.

[MOsmallies]

Thanks for the replies everyone!

If you are looking for a monster caller, look no farther: DEPS buzzjet. It may be a $25 lure but this lure drives bass crazy. I have a few of these and fish just flat out smash them. You won't find these at your local walmart, basspro, or cabelas but they can be found at many online fishing sites (tacklewarehouse).

Evolution - I was actually checking out the Deps Buzzjet as well. I've heard some great things about it. Do you throw the full size (4" & 1 oz.) or the Jr. (3" and 1/2oz.). I'm thinking I'd prefer the Jr. size for stream smallies, but was wondering if it has the same action. What's your favorite way to work it? And any colors you prefer?

Anyone else tried the Deps Buzzjet?

[Ham]

The Jr is pretty big and the full sized is a monster. I have both. I've caught more than a few on the Jr.

[Chief Grey Bear]

Luhr Jensen was bought out by Rapala a few years back and they continued to make the Woodchopper for a few years but has since discontinued them. Another company called High Roller lures makes a knockoff that works and sounds just like the Woodchopper called the Rip Roller.

Thanks Jim, I may have to look into them.

I have mine on the wall now. They are in full retirement.