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Wednesday, September 16th, 2026

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Leech patterns may be the ticket after ice-out in Ohio

Consider using a leech pattern in your favorite water after ice out. You may prefer one dressed with marabou or bucktail or soft plastic, all can produce in colder water. If you ever take the opportunity to use live leeches, that can be fun, too. (Photo by John Tertuliani)

Do you use black jigs to mimic a leech? Should you use a leech pattern? Do you see leeches when you are out fishing, like you do crayfish, minnows, or shad? What is the deal?
Black or blue/black soft plastics are a staple for bass anglers in colder water, stained too. Why do such patterns work, when the common prey items do not resemble such an offering?

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