Because the subtle shimmy soft stickbaits, like the Senko, Gulp! Sinking Minnow and Yum Dinger, produce as they fall through the water column is such a strong strike trigger, these baits have become a staple of the bass fishing arsenal.
Only problem is that flipping them into weed pockets, over inside weedlines, into brush or under docks sometimes interferes with their enticing action because the line catches on a twig or cross member, causing the bait to act as a pendulum.
To counter this, rig a slip float above the lure, and freespool the line immediately after the cast so the lure can sink directly below the float.
As an added enticement, try a lighted, rattling float. NAFC member Bill Siemantel uses a Night Bobby float, even during daylight.
“Day or night, there’s something about that spot of light that attracts a bass’ attention. If the fish require even more, I reel the lure up close to the float and give it a shake to get the rattles going, then drop the lure again.”
When fishing the stickbait/float in weeds or wood, use a thin, abrasion-resistant, braided line.