Tube Baits
The Tube bait attracts bass like no other lure. With the subtle presentation, this lure imitates a dying minnow better then any. With its seductive spiraling fall, and its silhouette, which resembles a minnow, no bass can resist it. Another important aspect of the tube bait is the way trapped air improves its action, and the way it sometimes bubbles out when it hits bottom like a real minnow. This lure is also used for reaction strikes so color is not as important as with some other lures. The tube bait is also a very versatile lure. Anything from 8 to 15 pound test line is good, but the lighter line should be used in open water, while the heavier line should be used in cover, or shallow areas, not only because of the risk of getting caught up, but in deeper water it lets the bait perform better, where in shallow water this is not as important.
As for rigging, the weight should be as light as possible, 12 to 15 lb test line should use a 3/16 to 1/4 ounce weight, while 8 to 10 lb test line should use a 1/16 ounce weight. The weight should be loose, because it makes a unique echo sound through the tube, and when worked correctly, the bait will move up, and then the weight will suddenly force it down. You can even plug up the open end to keep it more buoyant.
Good times to use the tube are when jigs are not working, when they normally should, or in cold, clear or post frontal conditions. Also in the summer in 24 to 40 ft. of water, where baitfish are schooling, you can use a 1/4 ounce and shake the bait where the baitfish are. The tube can also be used like a soft jerkbait, or carolina rigged for super fussy, structure oriented bass. A bottom erratic movement is another way to work the tube bait.
Also different shape and size tubes perform differently. Bulkier tubes fall slower, but thinner ones spiral more. Also the bigger ones have more definition in dirtier water, while smaller 3" ones are good in clear water, especially for smallmouth. Also, good choices for clear water are ones with gold flakes, and green tubes are good for deeper water.
