There are a couple of mini spinner baits that pop into my head every time I hear someone speak about light tackle bass fishing. These two baits bring back fond memories of years past and all out bass brawls on light gear. Perhaps no other baits are as synonymous for light tackle as the Beetle spin or the Road Runner. Both of these little powder kegs are spinner type baits. They may not be known exclusively as bass baits but both of these dynamos are definitely successful bass catchers and have been for years. They are inexpensive and available just about anywhere. I tend to use tiny braid with these baits. I also employ a light action rod that has a little give to it. I like setting up on fish with this rig. The braided line instantly telegraphs a strike and can wrestle fish out of dangerous places. The softer action rod helps throw the bait and the braid adds to the sensitivity you may lose with the lighter action rod.

Beetle spin

This little bait is a simple light jig head tipped with a small straight twin tailed beetle body combined with a spinner harness. It is a scaled down version of the more popular safety pin style spinner baits that are so common today. Fished on 4lb test and a rod with a whippy action, the Beetle Spin makes a devastating early season bait. Even in cold water, the beetle has a knack for producing tremendous numbers of bass along with a few good sized bass as well.

I fish the beetle on a homemade 6-6 light action Helium spinning rod that features a split Tennessee handle. I prefer 4lb test on a Tica SB500 reel matched with that rod. This sweet smooth little combo telegraphs everything the beetle spin is doing and transmits it back to me. The light rod is a blast when battling fish. For all around fun, you can