Lipless Crankbaits: Year-Round Tips from Pro Angler Mike Iaconelli

Lipless crankbaits are very popular on grass lakes in the late winter and early spring, but did you know it’s a technique you can utilize all year long?

“When they're on it, you can't beat it,” said Mike Iaconelli, 2003 Bassmaster Classic champion. “Here's the deal with this bait, and this is what makes this on special. It's a lure that has three factors. A lot of lures only have one factor. … [Lipless crankbaits] have sound, vibration, and flash all built into one bait.”

Those three factors Iaconelli discusses in this seminar are exactly why this bait can shine 12 months out of the year. The biggest change the Elite Series pro recommends to keep catching fish is to simply change up your presentation.

Slowly hopping – or yo-yo-ing – a lipless crankbait in the colder winter months can help trigger a reaction strike for sluggish bass. Meanwhile, learning how to rip a lipless crankbait will shine in the spring transition as water temperatures increase and bass start to head toward spawning areas. Burning and jerking lipless crankbaits are two methods that have the opportunity to shine in the summer and fall, as well.

For Iaconelli, the gear is almost more important than the bait itself. Determining the right gear is based heavily on what presentation you are going for. While fluorocarbon and monofilament are Iaconelli’s typical choices, there’s also a place in his lineup for using braided line depending on the situation.

While the former Classic winner keeps his color selection simple, he offers plenty of suggestions for modifications to help you increase your hookup percentage – and more effectively fish lipless crankbaits around heavy cover.