By Joe Sheaffer
On a recent fishing trip my friend wanted to know about the way I retrieve my jig and paddle tail. Through the years, I have simplified the type of lures I’m using and their presentation. I primarily use what I call a slow and steady retrieve. I primarily like to power fish, covering water and making longer casts. I have been very successful using a steady retrieve. I have a ton of confidence with a jig and paddle tail or swimbait. Making a long cast and a steady retrieve allows me to cover large areas with a lure that stays in the strike zone longer. Basically, after the cast simply lower the rod tip and start retrieving. Obviously, conditions play a role in the presentation. Depending on depth, current, wind and structure choose a lure that will work best in each condition. The weight of the lure is usually the key. In light current, shallower water, hard structure and grass, lighter jigs work best. Heavy current and deeper water requires a heavier jig. I have found a slow steady retrieve works very well with a spoon and slow retrieve and light twitches work very well with weedless Jerk Shads. I use an occasional plug like a wake bait or suspending twitch bait and the slower presentation works very well. I recall this story quite often, when I moved down here a few years ago catching redfish was a challenge. I couldn’t figure it out and was very frustrated. One day, sticking with a jig and paddle tail and a slow retrieve, I caught a couple. Since that day I have had great confidence catching redfish, snook, trout and other species. Sure, there are times a faster retrieve is more effective but when it is tough, slow it down and you may be pleasantly surprised. Good luck and keep casting.