Bass hacks that work

These great bass fishing tips will not only help you catch more bass, they’re so simple, you’ll be kicking yourself for not thinking of them. Clean cut Even with scissors, braided line can be a challenge to cut. So, the next time you’re picking up some milk, grab a milk-bag cutter. Technically a razor blade, a milk bag cutter will quickly and safely slice braid and other types of fishing line. Attach it to a retractable key ring to keep it handy. Stick it Looking for any easy way to peg a bullet weight? The wiggly bristles of a silicone pastry brush are a super alternative to a toothpick and easily fit into the hole of a worm weight. A firm pull will wedge the weight against the line without the worry of line damage. Trim both tag ends and you’re off. One brush that costs a couple of bucks should last two seasons. Band together Soft-plastic stick baits or senkos rip very easily, especially when rigged wacky. One surefire way to keep them secure is to use a band of heat-shrink tubing. The 3⁄8” tubing works well with most five-inch baits. Hobby stores offer a great range of colours. Cut about a 1-cm length of tubing, thread it onto the bait and apply heat. This is a great off-season project for doing multiple baits at a time. Another option is to slip on a section of clear plumbing hose. Easily found at most plumbing stores, the 5⁄16” size hose fits most 5” baits snuggly. It’s difficult to pierce the tube with the hook, but once it’s in, it holds the bait firmly. Trailer hook stopper A trailer hook is a must for hooking short-striking bass. A slick way to attach one is by modifying an extra-large neoprene bobber stop. Slip the trailer hook onto the spinnerbait or buzzbait’s main hook. Now, thread the neoprene stopper onto the main hook. Avoid a trailer hook with an enormous eye as it’s difficult to match them with an appropriate stopper. Surprisingly, this hack lasts for years and having the hook swinging free makes a world of difference. Wrap 'em up Bass anglers love their fishing rods but transporting them is a hassle. A trip to the fabric store is all that’s needed to solve this problem. Pick up a metre or two of double-sided Velcro and you’re set. Computer stores sell a