Plastic worms are among the most popular of bass fishing lures, and there's good reason for this. Put simply, they catch fish. A great bait for beginners and experienced fishermen alike, plastic worms are easy to use, inexpensive and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. It's a good idea to keep a selection of different types of plastic worms in your tackle box and become familiar with using these effective fishing lures.
Rigs
Knowing how to rig a plastic worm is the first step in using it properly. A good rig to start with is the classic Carolina Rig. In this rig, the hook is tied to the fishing line, then a weight is attached to the line 12 to 24 inches above the hook. The weight keeps the worm underwater, yet free to float in the water, giving a realistic appearance. Another good rig to know is the Texas Rig, which uses a sliding bullet weight on the line above the hook. The weight sits on top of the hook and can be bumped along the bottom and over the obstructions.
Worm Hooks
When using plastic worms, it's best to have hooks that are specifically designed for that purpose. These hooks are angled near the eyelet to allow the tip of the worm to be threaded up to the angle, allowing the shank of the hook to remain exposed. The point of the hook is then embedded in the side of the worm, concealing it. Gamakatsu, Eagle Claw, Mustad, and other manufacturers all produce hooks specifically designed for plastic worms. Be sure to match the size of the hook to the size of the worm and make sure your hooks are always sharp.
Styles and Colors
Different fishing conditions demand different colors and styles of plastic worms, so keep an assortment in your tackle box. Thinner worms work best in heavy vegetation, and heavier worms with twisted or even multiple tails are better when visibility is low. In clear water, more translucent blue, green, purple, and brown worms work well.
Weights
Use the lightest weight of possible, particularly when fishing a Texas rig, where the weight slides along the fishing line. Usually a 1/16 or 1/8 ounce bullet weight will be sufficient. If you want the weight to remain stationary along the line just above the hook, insert a toothpick into the hole in the weight and break it off. Called pinning the weight, this will hold the weight in place.
Casting and Retrieval
When casting a plastic worm, place the worm past the location you think the fish are at allow the worm to drop to the bottom with a slack line. Different techniques can be used to retrieve the worm, including a slow twitch, a sweeping action or if asked retrieve. Be sensitive to the taps and pulls that indicate a strike and set the hook quickly when the bait is taken.
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