Terry Tuma

Examples include the water clarity and temperature, structural locations, weed growth and the depth where fish may be at, cast retrieve and trolling speed, to name a few.

“Tackle” Terry Tuma says he will often use a plain-colored plastic under normal conditions but will switch to a plastic with some sparkle in darker and/or deeper water. 

A good set-up to use when fishing deep waters and tough bite situations, “Tackle” Terry Tuma suggests using a braided line for the main line, connected to an eyelet on your drop-shot set-up and then using a monofilament line for your leader.

Consider using ned rigs- 2 ½ to 3 inches in length for tougher bite situations.

“Tackle” Terry Tuma suggests using a smaller bait when fishing in colder water and when there is a lot of fishing pressure. Use a larger swimbait when fish are more active.

Keep your leeches alive for a longer period of time before use to change out the water every other day and store them in non-chlorinated water. And keep them at around 34 degrees, making them more dormant but extending their lifespan.

Rubber nets tend to prevent crankbaits from getting caught in the netting and are gentler on fish and can be used when trolling or casting for walleyes, for instance. A vinyl-coated net is durable and good for catch-and-release.