There are some basic keys to being successful while fishing deep crank baits, and I believe they are the difference makers. If you think all you have to do is tie your crank bait on any old rod, throw it out and crank it back, well, what can I say except you will more than likely struggle trying to catch fish. There is a lot more to it than that. The first thing is equipment!

The worst thing you can actually do is to grab that old rod and reel and tie on your crank bait and expect to catch fish. Rods and reels are difference makers when it comes to deep cranking; your rod must be long and flexible, yet have enough back bone to hold a big fish. I personally throw a Duckett 7’11” cranking rod with medium action. The rod allows you to make long casts because of the length of the rod. It is flexible enough to get a good casting whip for a long cast, and the flexibility allows the bait to go deep enough.

Next is the reel. This is one presentation where the speed of the reel is extremely important; it’s not the fast reel that you use, but a 5:4:1 type reel. I use a Lew’s 5:4:1 cranking reel. The slower retrieve actually drives the bait deeper than a fast reel. It also allows you to work the bait more precisely and with less strength. Deep cranking can be extremely tiring, but with the proper reel speed it is not as tiring as pulling a fast speed reel.
 
Once you have got the proper equipment you will be set to fish deep crank baits. The first thing is a long cast; bass are followers, and long casts allow the bass to follow. It allows you to cover water and gives you time to create a bite with presentation.
Lastly, boat position can be a difference maker while crank baiting. Use your boat as a tool and let angles make the difference, because sometimes pulling down a ledge versus up the ledge can be the difference in catching fish!

Captain Mike

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