Big Bait & Glide Bait
ビッグベイト· Swimbait fishing, glide baiting· Intermediate
Big-bait fishing targets larger-than-average bass with oversized swimbaits and glide baits, presenting a big, realistic profile with a wide side-to-side glide or a jointed swimming action.
What it is
Big-bait fishing covers a family of oversized lures, from jointed hard swimbaits to single-joint glide baits and soft-body swimbaits. A glide bait in particular swims in a wide S pattern, gliding well to each side on a slow, steady retrieve or with rod input.
Why it's used in Japan
Japanese trophy fisheries such as Lake Biwa hold bass that feed on large prey, including sizeable gizzard shad and bluegill. A number of Japanese makers, deps among them, built their reputation on big baits designed for these fish, and the culture of targeting a small number of very large bites is well established.
How to fish it
Use heavy casting tackle rated for the bait's weight. For a glide bait, start with a slow, steady retrieve and add occasional rod sweeps or pauses to trigger a following fish. Expect long stretches without a bite; the payoff is size.