Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Matty Wong, in collaboration with Bass University, presents a seminar on achieving success through finesse fishing, a highly effective strategy for outsmarting even the most challenging bass. Originally from Hawaii, Matty moved to California, where he honed his skills in finesse fishing, particularly in heavily pressured waters. He emphasizes that understanding subtle environmental cues and adapting your approach are key differentiators. He highlights the importance of having a spinning rod readily available for various conditions and situations, stressing that this underestimated piece of equipment is crucial for consistent success due to its versatility and ability to handle lighter presentations. Matty also highlights the need to train yourself to slow down, especially when using weightless presentations, a skill that can lead to catching fish most anglers miss.

In this seminar, you will learn about Matty's innovative finesse fishing techniques, his preferred specialized gear, creative bait modifications influenced by Japanese angling insights, and much more. Key topics covered include the proper application of the Neko rig, the unique advantages of the Free rig, and advanced drop shot strategies. Matty will discuss essential equipment such as the benefits of 3000 size reels for smoother drag and superior line pickup, and the critical role of sinking braid with the right fluorocarbon leader. You will also gain insights into optimizing bait movement, understanding bass behavior, and the importance of specific knots like the Loop Knot for enhanced bait action and the FG Knot for strength and smooth casting. Furthermore, discover how to think creatively with bait and tackle, adapt jighead weight to the bass's "attitude", and explore Japanese techniques such as "strolling" that are 15 years old there, but are now gaining traction in the US.

Enhance your finesse bass fishing skills and increase your catch rate on spinning tackle with this informative seminar from Bassmaster Elite Series angler Matty Wong and Bass University. This class is designed to elevate your understanding of subtle tactics, providing you with the knowledge to consistently catch more bass, especially in tough or competitive conditions.

Finesse Fishing Success Class Chapters

• 0:15: Matty Wong Intro
  Discover why Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Matty Wong believes the spinning rod is an underestimated, fish-catching, cash-checking piece of equipment that every angler needs, and learn how his journey shaped his unique finesse fishing expertise.
• 2:32: Main Finesse Lineup
  Get introduced to the core finesse techniques that define Matty's approach, including the correct pronunciation and application of the Neko rig from Japan, the versatile drop shot, light Texas rigs, Tokyo Rigs, and even micro top waters, setting the stage for versatile presentations.
• 7:45: Bait Selection & Approach
  Learn Matty's philosophy on overall fishing approach and bait selection, emphasizing the critical skill of observing subtle environmental cues and understanding what bass are actually eating. Discover how adapting bait size, color, and movement based on these observations can drastically increase your catch rate and outsmart competitors.
• 22:19: Prime Time
  Master the art of finesse for challenging conditions, including post-frontal weather and heavily pressured waters. Understand the three phases of bass feeding (positive, neutral, negative) and how to apply finesse to trigger bites even when fish are reluctant.
• 28:25: Where to Fish
  Understand the versatile application of finesse fishing in diverse lake environments, from laydowns and grass lines to brush piles. Learn how this approach can serve as a critical "reset" button to reignite bites on pressured spots where traditional power fishing has failed.
• 34:45: Forward Facing Sonar (FFS) vs No Scope
  Explore the nuanced world of minnow fishing and learn how finesse adapts to both FFS users and traditional "no scope" anglers. Gain insights into adjusting jig head weight based on the bass's attitude for optimal presentation, even in shallow water.
• 45:05: Bait & Lure Modifications
  Unleash your creativity with innovative bait modifications and unconventional rigging techniques inspired by Matty's experiences in Japan. Discover the must-know toothpick trick to transform a standard presentation into an irresistible offering the fish have "never seen before".
• 49:48: Finesse Fishing Equipment
  Get a detailed breakdown of Matty's go-to finesse equipment, including highly sensitive Megabass spinning rods, the strategic advantages of 3000 size reels, the benefits of sinking braid for direct connection, and the crucial role of fluorocarbon leaders and the strong, smooth-casting FG Knot for peak performance.
• 58:47: Question & Answer
  A dedicated Q&A session provides an opportunity to delve deeper into specific finesse scenarios, clarify nuanced techniques, and gain direct insights from Matty Wong himself, helping you refine your approach and adapt to various fishing challenges.

Related Bass Fishing Topics