When I first started bass fishing, I had a large bass follow a Cordell Spot to within one foot of the bank, then turn away at the last second. I've had other bass do this through the years also. They will follow a lure close to the bank or boat, then turn away without striking the bait. I havnt noticed this as much with slow moving jigs or t rigs. Usually it's happened with lipless baits, shallow crankbaits, or spinnerbaits. I've read about musky fisherman doing a figure eight within a few feet of the boat, to entice a musky to strike. I'm sure others have had followers like this also. It's a puzzling thing. Clearly, the bass is interested in your lure, but wont strike it. Would you say these fish are not really feeding, but follow out of curiosity, then turn away when they realize that somethings not right? Have you found a way to get them to hit? What are some experiences you've had with these followers?
