Best Small Swimbaits for HUGE Bass!

The swimbait revolution can be dated back to the 1980s. Initially, it was widely believed that using larger bodies and exaggerated swimming actions are preferable and yield better results. Most fishermen believed that bigger baits would enable them to catch bigger bass. However, this is not always true.

With time, people have come to realize that it is the small swimbaits that work in most conditions. Most pros believe that smaller profile swimbaits bring better results. Anglers have realized that smaller swimbaits can be relied on, particularly in tough bites.

In 2016, Ryan Salzman of Huntsville Alabama won his fourth FLW Bass Fishing League tournament fishing a 4.5 inch True Bass Swimbait. He focused on ledges with a lot of baitfish. Read the MLF Article for yourself to learn more.

Hank Cherry, a North Carolina Pro Angler, has cashed in on over $100,000 using a “finesse swimbait” technique. His idea is that a light line and a pinning rod would allow him to gain casting distance. Presenting the small Swimbait from a distance would prevent the bass from spooking. You can read more about his thought process here.

A swimbait is a type of fishing lure designed to mimic the appearance and swimming motion of small fish. Typically made of soft plastic or hard materials, swimbaits come in various sizes, shapes, and colors to imitate different species of baitfish.

Anytime you’re fishing a jerk bait or fishing crankbaits for bass, swimbaits are also in play. As a matter of fact, I think swimbaits are in play all year long.

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The Five Best Small Swimbaits

Selecting the right swimbait can be the difference between a lackluster day on the water and landing the catch of a lifetime. As anglers, we’re constantly in pursuit of that perfect lure, one that not only mimics the natural prey of bass but also triggers their predatory instincts with precision.

We’ve curated a list of the five best small swimbaits tailored specifically for enticing those elusive trophy bass. From lifelike designs to impeccable swimming action, these swimbaits are poised to elevate your fishing game to new heights and reel in those heavyweight champions.

5. Googan Baits Saucy Swimmer

As an avid angler who’s spent countless hours chasing bass in various waterways, I can confidently say that the Googan Squad Saucy Swimmer swimbait is a game-changer. From the moment I first rigged it up, I could tell there was something special about this lure. Its realistic design and lifelike swimming action immediately caught my eye, but it was out on the water where its true prowess shone through.

I’ve used the Saucy Swimmer in all kinds of conditions – from clear, calm lakes to murky, fast-flowing rivers – and it has consistently delivered results. The first thing that struck me was its versatility. Whether I was fishing it slow and steady or ripping it through thick cover, the Saucy Swimmer performed flawlessly, eliciting strikes from even the most finicky bass.

What sets this swimbait apart is its irresistible scent and flavor infused into the plastic. It’s like ringing the dinner bell for bass. The moment they catch a whiff of that irresistible scent trail, they can’t resist but to strike. It’s like offering them a gourmet meal, and they simply can’t refuse.

But it’s not just about attracting bites – the Saucy Swimmer’s durable construction means it can withstand multiple strikes without tearing or losing its effectiveness. That means fewer lost fish and more time spent actually fishing, rather than constantly re-rigging.

Overall, the Googan Squad Saucy Swimmer swimbait has earned its place as a staple in my tackle box. Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to up your game or a beginner hoping to land your first trophy bass, this lure is sure to deliver. Trust me, once you give it a try, you’ll wonder how you ever fished without it.

4. Zman MinnowZ

Constantly on the hunt for new bass-catching lures, I stumbled upon the Z-Man MinnowZ swimbait, and let me tell you, it’s been incredible. Let’s dive into the depth of this lure, its features, and why it has become an indispensable part of my tackle box arsenal.

Developed by Z-Man Fishing, a company renowned for its innovation and commitment to producing high-quality fishing gear, the MinnowZ was born out of a desire to create a lifelike, versatile bait that bass simply couldn’t resist.

Key Features:

1. Hyper-Realistic Design: The first thing you’ll notice about the MinnowZ is its incredibly lifelike appearance. From its detailed fins to its realistic eyes, this swimbait looks like the real deal, making it irresistible to even the most discerning bass.
2. Superior Durability: One of the standout features of the MinnowZ is its durability. Made from Z-Man’s proprietary ElaZtech material, this swimbait can withstand countless strikes and still come back for more. Say goodbye to constantly replacing torn-up baits and hello to more time on the water.
3. Unmatched Action: When it comes to enticing bass, action is everything, and the MinnowZ delivers in spades. Its subtle tail movement mimics that of a real baitfish, drawing in bass from far and wide. Whether you’re fishing it fast or slow, this swimbait moves with an unmatched level of realism that bass find impossible to resist.
4. Versatility: Whether you’re fishing in clear water or murky conditions, the MinnowZ is up to the task. Its versatile design allows for a variety of rigging options, including Texas rigs, Carolina rigs, and jig heads, making it a go-to choice for any angler regardless of their preferred fishing style.
5. Scented Formula: To further entice finicky bass, the MinnowZ is infused with a proprietary scent that triggers feeding instincts and encourages longer holds. This added scent gives you an edge on the water, increasing your chances of hooking into that trophy bass.

This swimbait is unique in that it can catch more than bass. These can be fished in saltwater including surf and also work great for striper as well. I know people who have even caught trout on the smaller variations.

3. Strike King Rage Swimmer

With a lineage rooted in Strike King’s commitment to innovation and excellence, the Rage Swimmer Swimbait represents the culmination of years of research and development. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this lure embodies the essence of a wounded baitfish, triggering the predatory instincts of bass lurking beneath the surface.

What sets the Rage Swimmer apart is its unparalleled versatility. Whether I’m fishing it fast across the water’s surface or slow and methodically along the bottom, this swimbait maintains its lifelike action, enticing bass to strike with ferocity. Its streamlined body and paddle tail design create a natural swimming motion that bass find irresistible, making it the go-to choice for anglers seeking consistent success on the water.

Durability is another hallmark of the Rage Swimmer. Constructed from Strike King’s exclusive Perfect Plastic formula, this swimbait can withstand countless strikes and still maintain its integrity. Say goodbye to torn-up baits and hello to more time spent reeling in trophy bass.

What truly sets the Rage Swimmer apart, however, is its ability to adapt to any fishing scenario. Whether I’m targeting bass in shallow cover or probing deep structure, this swimbait performs flawlessly. Its versatile design allows for a variety of rigging options, including weedless Texas rigs, weighted swimbait hooks, and jig heads, ensuring that I’m always equipped to handle whatever the water throws my way.

Strike King Rage Swimmer Swimbait stands out not just as another lure, but as a true asset in the pursuit of bass. Its lifelike action, exceptional durability, and remarkable versatility have solidified its status as an essential tool for anglers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a casual weekend angler, the Rage Swimmer delivers results, enhancing your fishing experience and increasing your chances of success on the water.

2. Keitech Fat Swing Impact

This is another productive swimbait for anglers that can be used in a variety of techniques and situations.

It is a bit thick and yet optimally effective. The beefed-up paddle tail creates a unique swinging action that attracts fish perfectly.

It is made via a unique dual-injection molding process, combining two salted plastics, thereby giving it a well-balanced effect. It is also infused with a heavy dose of squint scent.

Thus, you can be assured that it will not let you down in terms of results.

1. Reaction Innovation Little Dipper

Coming in at number one we have the Reactiokn Innovations Little Dipper. If you have been a member of this blog for any length of time then you have heard me talk about this bait before.

The three and a half inches little dipper is one of the most appealing choices you have if you require a finesse approach.

It works particularly well with a fish head spinner and is excellent in drop shotting as well.

This swimbait will prove to be a valuable ally in your fishing expedition and ensure that you do not return home empty-handed.

Conculusion – Top 5 Small Swimbaits

These small swim baits ahave really taken the market by storm the last few years. It is no secret the big fish carching ability of these baits as they are ecptremely life like. If you have never trined these baits before, you MUST get a pack and at least try them out.

Most of these seim baits can be swam, drug, or bouced back to you. They also make fantastic trailers for spinnerbaits, jigs, and the Alabama rig.

Drop a comment below and let me know what your favortite small swimabit is. I would love to hear what you are using in your water to catch monster bass.