Tennesee’s Wild Side Weekly Article

Fishing the “Floating Worm”

In the spring, a floating worm can be deadly in shallow water, especially when bass are pressured or simply not in an aggressive mood. We start our search for shallow bass with topwater lures and spinnerbaits, but if those fail, the floating worm is a favorite fall-back lure.

Proper rigging of the floating worm is the key. Using a 3/0 or 4/0 off-set shank worm hook, Texas rig the floating worm. The goal is to rig the floating worm so that it gives a back and forth action when twitched, much like a Zara Spook. This lure action is achieved when the worm hangs on the hook with a very slight “concave” bend between the hook’s eye and point. Only a very slight concave bend is needed. Too much and the worm will spin. Proper lure action is absolutely critical, so continue to adjust the worm until the desired back and forth action is achieved.

A spinning reel mounted on a 6-7' medium action rod is preferred for this technique. This rod and reel combination allows long casts of the unweighted worm, which is a definite advantage in clear, shallow water. Berkley Fireline is a perfect line for this technique. Fireline floats, has minimal drag on the worm's action and its lack of stretch provides strong hook sets.

The floating worm is not a good choice for muddy water. Use it in clear to dingy conditions. We like bright worm colors such as white, chartreuse or bubble gum.

Fish the floating worm anytime bass are shallow. Texas rigged weedless, it is a killer technique around cover like buck bushes, stumps or boat docks. The naturally quiet presentation of a floating worm makes it a super choice for small lakes and ponds.

Good fishing!

Wild Side Staff

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