Deep and slow always seems to be a solid summer bass strategy, and a jig presentation fits the bill.
Hydrilla and aquatic weeds:
Bass take refuge in the cool beneath masses of hydrilla and other aquatic weeds. Plenty of bass hide along the outskirts of the mats where a ¾-ounce jig head with a plastic worm or craw trailer easily pushes through the looser vegetation while presenting a large profile that typically generates big bites.
Natural colors like green pumpkin, brown and watermelon work best in clear water, while black/blue or dark neons provide the necessary contrast if the water is stained.
Football jig heads, ¾ ounces with a full skirt is a top choice. The full skirt is guaranteed to move a lot of water, drawing the bass’ attention. This jig can also stir up plenty of response along the bank especially if there has been a lot of rain when the water gets dirty and the fish move up shallow to feed.
The football jig head generates lots of fish-attracting commotion when it traverses wood or rock. A slow drag gives fish plenty of time to spot the bait, important during the summer as the bass don’t want to move far to get the bait.
Out deep:
If you concentrate on fish out deep, go with a 3/8- to ½-ounce flipping jig with a plain chunk trailer that allows for a quick return to the bottom after each stroke. This technique works best when fish suspend 4-5 feet off the bottom. Pop the jig on slack line. The key is to create a bottom disturbance and triggers a reaction strike.
