Is it too cold to fish? It’s never too cold to fish. Even if the water freezes over, just cut a hole in the ice. But if you’re crazy enough (about fishing) to brave the cold, what is a good way to catch some fish?
Capt, Steve Chaconas says to go for The Stingray. Stingray as in Mann’s Classic Stingray Grub.
Here’s how, says Capt. Chaconas.
“One of my favorite baits for cold water is Mann’s Stingray grub. The 3-inch avocado bait has been around for nearly a half century. I had used them in the 60s in Alabama, but when I tossed them in the Potomac, I really had something. I had been using curl tail grubs with success but ran out as fish were tearing tails off. I kept catching fish on the short tail remnants. I found some of the Mann’s Stingray grubs in my boat. My dad left them there after another trip. I tried them and it was amazing.”
“Rigging is simple. I use ¼ ounce ball head jigs made with Mustad Ultra Point hooks Paint heads black with spray paint. Thread a Stingray with the tail flat. Here’s an important tip. Keep grubs, soaked in garlic Jack’s Juice Bait Spray, in your pocket to keep them warm. It makes the plastic more pliable and won’t split when putting on the hook. A dab of Pro’s Soft Bait glue is all that’s needed to fish these until you get hung up.”
“Rigged on a Quantum Smoke spinning reel with a medium heavy rod, I spool 10 pound test Gamma Torque braid with 6 pound test Gamma Edge leaders. Palomar knots secure the bait. Fishing with a gentle lift, about 2 inches, allows the bait to glide to a stop. Shaking works too. A lift and glide keeps the bait along the bottom. Lift and reel to set the hook.”
See? Nothing to it. Get some Stingrays and go fishing!
Contact: Capt. Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA,
cell: 703-380-7119. info@nationalbass.com