How to retrieve Rattle Traps, and where to cast them.

[jerebro]

I know nothing about rattle traps except the colors on the 2 that I have. When and where do you cast them? What times of year? Clear water or muddy? I try them in all but would like to know when seems to work best. I also am not sure that I retrieve them. I cast it out and reel back fairly fast. I don't make any action with my rod. Any tips on rattle traps would be wondermus!!

[harlinsdad]

I like to use trap at the locks in the KY river. The swift water seems to be a great place for me. I don't use them as often as i should in calm water or in the local lakes. For me they are my go to bait at the locks.                        

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

The rattle trap style crank baits can be thrown almost anywhere. They are surprisingly weedless for a treble hook bait. Where they really shine is over the tops of submerged weeds. Just tick the tops and give sharp snap when you feel a weed grab on. More often than not, that snap will trigger your strikes. I also like them around the rip-rap in rivers and reservoirs. Welcome to the forum, it's an awesome place.

[tnbassfisher]

  Quote

The rattle trap style crank baits can be thrown almost anywhere. They are surprisingly weedless for a treble hook bait. Where they really shine is over the tops of submerged weeds. Just tick the tops and give sharp snap when you feel a weed grab on. More often than not, that snap will trigger your strikes. I also like them around the rip-rap in rivers and reservoirs. Welcome to the forum, it's an awesome place.

x2.

I don't however, suggest throwing them into thick cover.

[sodaksker]

I will throw them on anywater that does not have thick matted weeds.  I love tying them on for my kids because they are easy to fish and they catch any fish that is hungry.  I to love the fish them over submerged cabage, just ticking the tops with occasional rips.  There is no wrong way to fish this bait.  If the bite gets tough, try slowing it down as much you can without losing the vibration.  I have caught a lot of walleyes at night on the slow retrieve.

[MattL]

They also work well in dirty water and in fast current since they make a good bit of noise.

Try a quick direction change with your rod to induce strikes.

[mphenry]

early spring when water temp is below 65 is my favorite time but they work good in the fall as well.  Smallies seem to throw the bait pretty easy so be prepared.