| Many anglers mistakenly use the terms action and power interchangeably, but they refer to different characteristics of a fishing rod. Action describes how quickly the rod returns to its straight position after bending, which influences sensitivity and hook-setting ability. Power refers to how much force is needed to bend the rod, determining its strength and lifting capability. A rod with extra fast action bends only at the tip and recovers quickly, while a slow action rod bends throughout its length and takes longer to return. Understanding these differences helps anglers choose the best rod for their techniques, whether fishing with soft plastics in open water or maneuvering bass out of dense vegetation. Choosing the correct balance between action and power ensures efficient energy transfer during both casting and hook sets. A stiff, fast-action rod transmits subtle vibrations effectively, making it ideal for detecting light bites when dragging a worm across the bottom. A moderate action rod flexes more, which helps absorb a bass’s surges during the fight and reduces the chances of the hook pulling free. Power also dictates what type of cover an angler can confidently fish in, as heavy power rods excel in dense vegetation, while medium power rods work better in open water. By understanding these key rod characteristics, anglers can optimize their setups for different soft plastic presentations and increase their chances of landing bass.Our Fresh HellaMite is designed to imitate a major aquatic food source, delivering a realistic profile of an insect larva that fish can’t resist. Scented for complete and total attraction underwater along with being made in the USA by real fishermen just like you. Grab our newest Lil Bass, Hot Sauce, MidNight, Glow, 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink HellaMite colors. Act quickly, these new colors won’t stay in stock for long. We also recently restocked our Ghost, Red Bug, Purple Rain, Brown Bug, Electric Chicken, and Goby Wan colors. The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Iits unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition year-round. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait and look like real food, causing strikes. Each cast becomes an opportunity for an exhilarating catch, thanks to its superior performance and versatility. |
| Rod actions range from extra fast to slow, each serving a specific purpose in bass fishing. Extra fast rods are highly sensitive and ideal for fishing soft plastics in heavy cover, as they allow for quick hook sets and immediate control over the fish. Fast action rods provide slightly more flex while still offering strong hook-setting power, making them a popular choice for a variety of techniques. Moderate action rods bend further down the blank, making them excellent for techniques where the rod needs to absorb the movement of the fish, such as when using soft plastics that bass tend to strike aggressively. Slow action rods bend throughout their length, but they lack the power needed to set hooks effectively in a bass’s bony mouth, making them more suitable for species like crappie or trout rather than bass fishing. Each rod action also affects casting performance, sensitivity, and fish-fighting ability. Extra fast action rods allow for precise, short-distance casts but lack the flex needed for long-range presentations. Moderate action rods, on the other hand, load up more on the cast, helping to launch soft plastics farther while also reducing the risk of pulling the hook free during the fight. Fast action rods strike a balance, offering both decent casting distance and enough stiffness to drive hooks into a bass’s tough jaw. Choosing the right rod action is essential for matching the fishing conditions and the specific soft plastics being used, improving hook-up ratios and landing success.We use our Fresh Scorpion because it closely imitates a crawfish. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink Scorpion colors work wonders. The Scorpion is a revolutionary new look to soft plastics. Its intricate detailing and texture mimic the nuances of a real crawfish, making it hard for bass to resist. Of course, water clarity always plays a role in color selection but in any season, you can’t miss using colors such as Green Pumpkin Seed, Brown Bark, Magneto. This bait not only appears natural to fish but gives them something to become curious about. The Scorpion paired with a stand-up jig is deadly because the jig actually sits the bait upright in a defensive stance. The subtle color variations across the bait further enhance its appeal, mimicking the natural color shifts found in live prey. Each Fresh Scorpion has a unique and exclusive 3-axis tail design that is engineered like no other soft plastic bait. Our Scorpions are made by anglers from high-grade non-salt plastic to provide superior life-like action-triggering strikes! |
| Rod power ranges from ultralight to extra heavy, determining how much force is needed to bend the rod and handle specific fishing situations. Ultralight and light rods are generally not suited for bass fishing, as they lack the strength to set hooks properly and control larger fish. Medium and medium-heavy rods offer versatility and can handle a range of soft plastic techniques, such as dragging a lizard through structure or bouncing a worm along the bottom. Heavy and extra-heavy rods are essential for pulling bass out of thick cover, such as when fishing soft plastics in submerged vegetation where a strong backbone is required. Choosing the right power ensures that anglers can effectively control their lure and land fish in various conditions. Rod power also impacts hook-setting efficiency and line selection. A medium power rod pairs well with lighter lines and finesse techniques, allowing for more natural lure presentations. In contrast, a heavy power rod is best used with stronger lines to withstand the pressure of pulling bass through thick weeds or heavy timber. When selecting a rod, anglers should consider the balance between power and action, as a heavy rod with fast action provides maximum control, whereas a medium-heavy moderate action rod offers a mix of strength and flexibility. Understanding how power influences fishing performance helps anglers select the best setup for their preferred techniques and fishing environments.The new FreshBaitz Lizards deliver a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fact, we just released new Hot Sauce, MidNight, Ghost and 10w30 Syntheic Lizard designs! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater. |
| Unlike measurements such as line strength or reel gear ratios, rod power and action classifications are not standardized across manufacturers. A medium-heavy fast action rod from one company may feel different from another due to variations in blank construction and materials. To help anglers navigate these inconsistencies, rods are often labeled with recommended line and lure weight ranges, offering a more precise way to determine their intended use. Testing rods in person or reading detailed specifications can help ensure a proper match for individual fishing preferences. Since there is no universal scale, the best approach is to handle a rod before purchasing or rely on trusted guidelines based on experience. Because of these inconsistencies, anglers should focus on performance rather than just labels. A rod’s actual feel in hand is more important than how it’s classified, as slight variations in blank stiffness and taper can change how a rod performs. Some rods may be stiffer or more flexible than their rating suggests, affecting casting, hook-setting, and fish-fighting ability. Some manufacturers design rods specifically for certain techniques, which can be more useful than relying solely on generic power and action ratings. By understanding these differences and testing rods whenever possible, anglers can make better-informed decisions and select the best tool for their fishing needs.Our Fresh Beetle delivers ultimate versatility in a soft plastic bait. Its slim yet wide body design and four claws are engineered to naturally glide and wobble as it moves through the water. This design ensures they remain enticingly active longer than conventional baits. Its unique texture also provides a realistic feel, making bass hold on longer once they bite. Water clarity plays a big role in color selection but year-round you can’t miss when using go-to colors such as Chocolate Mint, Ox Blood, or 10w30 Synthetic beetles. The hyper-active swimming claws are designed thin with long-lasting durable non-salt plastic to make them come alive with the slightest movement. The Fresh Beetle offers an enticing 4-inch profile and is scented for complete and total attraction! You can rig these Beetles as a Jig/ Chatter Trailer, Flippin/ Punching, Texas Rig, Swing Jig, and Carolina Rig. Making the beetle beyond perfect in any weather condition year-round! |
| The action of a rod greatly influences both sensitivity and casting performance, two crucial factors for bass anglers. Extra fast action rods offer maximum sensitivity, allowing anglers to detect even the lightest bites when working soft plastics along the bottom. However, their stiffness makes them less effective for casting longer distances, which is where moderate action rods excel. The increased flex in moderate rods helps with casting lighter soft plastics farther, especially in windy conditions or when covering large areas of water. Balancing sensitivity with casting distance is key to maximizing efficiency on the water and selecting the best rod for a given fishing situation. Sensitivity is especially important when using bottom-contact techniques, where feeling subtle bites can mean the difference between success and missed opportunities. A highly sensitive rod allows anglers to detect changes in the lake bottom, such as rocks, sand, or vegetation, giving better control over lure presentation. On the other hand, casting distance becomes critical when covering water efficiently, such as when targeting scattered bass in large open areas. Moderate action rods, while slightly less sensitive, provide better energy transfer during the cast, allowing for increased distance and accuracy. Choosing a rod that matches the fishing style and conditions ensures that anglers can detect bites effectively while also reaching fish.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from but we just added new MidNight, Glow, and Ghost Worms! Our popular Wild Cherry Worms have been restocked as well. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools for wacky rigging. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out along with some of our newest colors including the Brown Worm, Electic Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also released new 6-inch Worms including Charmeleon, Rainbow TRT, Bone, Chocolate Mint, and Fire TGR are all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Scented for total attraction underwater. |
| Selecting the right rod depends on fishing conditions, cover, and the type of soft plastics being used. Fast and extra fast action rods are best for working soft plastics in heavy vegetation, where quick hook sets and a strong backbone help extract bass from thick cover. Moderate action rods are effective when fishing in open water, where the additional flex helps keep fish hooked during the fight. Rod power also plays a role, with medium-heavy rods being the most versatile choice for a variety of bass fishing applications, while heavy power rods provide the necessary strength for thick cover situations. Understanding how action and power influence performance allows anglers to tailor their gear to maximize success in different environments. Different soft plastic presentations also benefit from specific rod choices. Lizards and insect larva baits worked along the bottom require sensitive fast-action rods to detect subtle bites and ensure solid hook penetration. When fishing beetles or cray-styled baits in open water, a moderate action rod helps maintain tension and prevents fish from shaking the hook. Heavy power rods paired with extra fast action are essential for techniques like punching through thick vegetation, where immediate control over the fish is necessary. Matching rod characteristics to specific techniques ensures that each presentation is optimized for both performance and efficiency.Our newest FreshBaitz Mandingo Trick Worm is the ultimate game-changer for anglers with a passion! Engineered for the angler who knows SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a penchant for the larger bait. The Mandingo Trick Worm boasts a solid 7-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. Officially available in a vibrant array of 8 colors. Each worm is made from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for total and maximum attraction, the Mandingo Trick Worm promises year-round effectiveness in lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re rigging it on a Shakey Head, Drop Shot, Texas Rig, or Carolina Rig, these worms are your ticket to landing the big ones. Proudly made in the USA by real anglers to help elevate your fishing experience and catch more bass year-round! |
| Every angler has a unique fishing style, and finding the right rod often requires hands-on experience and adjustments. While general guidelines exist, personal preference and fishing conditions play a significant role in determining the best setup. Some anglers prefer a stiffer rod for added control, while others might opt for more flex to absorb a fish’s movements and prevent losing them during a fight. Testing different rods with soft plastics like worms or beetles can help fine-tune the selection process, ensuring the best balance between sensitivity, power, and control. Experience with different rod setups will help anglers make more confident and informed decisions about their fishing gear. Fishing in varied conditions such as deep structure, shallow cover, or open water reveals how different rod actions and powers perform. A rod that feels ideal for working a lizard in deep water may feel too stiff for finesse fishing with an insect larva bait in clear shallows. Trying rods with different line types and reel setups further refines an angler’s ability to detect bites and fight fish effectively. Adjusting casting techniques and hook-setting force based on the rod’s characteristics can improve efficiency and landing rates. Adapting to different rods and techniques is essential for maximizing success and becoming a more versatile bass angler.We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but we’ve recently released new Nako Tungsten Tear Drop Shot Weights, crafted from 97% eco-friendly tungsten for stealth, durability, and vibration, with easy-to-read size stamps and a crimped swivel for quick changes. The new Haymaker EWG Worm Hooks are also now available, featuring an extra-wide gap for various soft plastics, a Z-lock shoulder bend for secure bait placement, and an angled-up super needle point for fast, powerful hooksets. For creature-styled baits, a more popular choice to use is the Stand-Up Jig because it sits the bait up-right in a defensive stance! Mosquito Hooks work for dropshotting and perfectly accommodates a wide range of soft plastics. The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics. The Offset Block Head Jig, offers the same mushroom-style head with a unique offset hook, making it a go-to for weedless Ned Rig applications. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you pressure time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. The Range Roller Jig Head is crafted for precision with its high center axis design, perfect for hover-strolling and mid to bottom strolling with forward facing sonar, ensuring an enticing rolling action that triggers bites. We also just release New Keep’em Fresh Bait Bags! These bags are the ultimate solution for anglers who need their gear to perform. Built like a tank, this bag is 20x stronger than regular zip bags and offers 100% waterproof protection with a rock-solid double zipper seal. Whether it’s for soft plastics, snacks, or your smartphone, this reusable and versatile bag keeps everything safe from the water, mud, and grime. Lightweight yet spacious, it fits snugly in your tackle box or backpack, making it perfect for your next adventure. |
