If you like bass fishing, there is no doubt that using a wake bait is effective. With so many choices of wake baits, how do you narrow the search down? We did the hard work for you by listing the top 3 wake baits for bass fishing.
Comparison of the Best Wake Baits for Bass Fishing
| Wake Bait | Key Features | Best Conditions | Recommended Gear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strike King KVD 2.5 Wake Bait | – Wide wobbling action – Built-in rattle for stained water – Floats when paused | – Clear to stained water – Around docks, laydowns, and stumps – Late spring through fall | Rod: 7′ Medium-Heavy, Moderate Action Reel: 6.3:1 Baitcaster Line: 12-17 lb Monofilament |
| 6th Sense Speed Wake 100 | – Hydrodynamic body for a natural swim – Internal weight transfer system for longer casts – Silent action for pressured bass | – Clear, calm water – Open flats and shallow ledges – When bass are feeding on small shad | Rod: 7′ to 7’3″ Medium, Fast Action Reel: 7.1:1 Baitcaster Line: 12-15 lb Monofilament |
| Strike King Wake Shad 2.0 | – Realistic baitfish profile – Slow-sinking for varied retrieves – Loud rattles for murky water | – Murky or stained water – Overcast days – Early morning and late evening | Rod: 7′ to 7’6″ Medium-Heavy, Moderate Action Reel: 6.3:1 Baitcaster Line: 30-40 lb Braid or 12-15 lb Monofilament |
What Are Wake Baits?
Wake baits are a hybrid between crankbaits and topwater lures. Unlike crankbaits that dive deep or traditional topwater lures that stay on the surface, wake baits create a subtle disturbance just under the surface. Their floating design and slow wobbling action mimic injured baitfish, making them irresistible to bass. Have you ever seen shad flipping or swimming on the surface? That is what a wake bait imitates.
Key Features of Wake Baits for Bass Fishing
- Shallow Diving Depth – Typically runs just below the surface, leaving a visible wake.
- Wobbling Action – Mimics the movement of struggling baitfish.
- Buoyant Body – Floats when paused, keeping it in the strike zone longer.
- Versatile Retrieve Speeds – Can be retrieved slow for subtle movements or fast for aggressive strikes.
How Wake Baits Compare to Other Topwater Lures
| Lure Type | Action Type | Best Conditions | Target Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wake Bait | Slow, wobbling | Calm or slightly rippled water | Just below the surface |
| Poppers | Chugging and splashing | Calm water, targeting aggressive bass | Surface |
| Buzzbaits | Fast, loud churning | Windy or stained water | Surface |
| Frogs | Weedless, erratic | Heavy vegetation | Surface |
Wake baits shine when bass are feeding near the surface but aren’t willing to fully commit to a topwater strike.
Why Use Wake Baits for Bass Fishing?
Wake baits offer several advantages over other lure types, making them a valuable tool in your fishing arsenal.
1. Perfect for Covering Water
Their surface disturbance allows you to cover a large area quickly. Whether you’re targeting a new lake or searching for active fish, wake baits help locate bass efficiently. Fan casting is a popular technique when searching for fish with a wake bait.
2. Trigger Reaction Strikes
Bass are ambush predators. When they see a struggling baitfish moving just under the surface, their instincts take over, often resulting in explosive strikes.
3. Effective in a Variety of Conditions
Wake baits work best in low-light conditions (early morning or late evening), but they also perform well in slightly choppy water, where the disturbance blends in naturally.
4. Minimal Snagging Issues
Unlike diving crankbaits that get hung up in submerged cover, wake baits stay near the surface, reducing snags while still drawing bass out of structure.
Best Wake Baits for Bass Fishing
Not all wake baits are created equal. Here are three of the best wake baits for bass fishing, each with unique advantages.
1. Strike King KVD 2.5 Wake Bait
A favorite among anglers, the Strike King KVD 2.5 is a shallow-running wake bait designed for aggressive action.
Features:
- Wide wobbling movement
- Large profile, ideal for bigger bass
- Built-in rattle to attract fish in stained water
- Floats when paused, mimicking injured prey
Best Conditions:
- Clear to stained water
- Around docks, stumps, and laydowns
- Late spring through fall
2. 6th Sense Speed Sense 100
This wake bait is designed for precision casting and subtle surface disturbance.
Features:
- Hydrodynamic body for natural swimming action
- Internal weight transfer system for long casting
- Silent action—ideal for clear water where bass rely on sight
Best Conditions:
- Clear, calm water
- Open flats and shallow ledges
- When bass are feeding on small shad
3. Strike King Wake Shad 2.0
A unique wake bait that mimics large baitfish, the Wake Shad 2.0 is a great choice when targeting big bass.
Features:
- Realistic baitfish profile
- Slow-sinking design for varied retrieves
- Loud rattles for maximum attraction
Best Conditions:
- Murky or stained water
- Overcast days
- Early morning and late evening
How to Fish Wake Baits for Bass
Success with wake baits depends on how you retrieve them and where you throw them.
1. Retrieval Techniques
- Slow and Steady: A slow retrieve with the rod tip up keeps the bait just below the surface, creating a distinct wake.
- Stop-and-Go: Pausing the bait mimics a wounded fish, triggering strikes.
- Twitching Motion: Occasional twitches make the lure appear erratic, which entices hesitant bass.
2. Best Locations for Wake Baits
- Shallow flats with baitfish activity
- Points and secondary points where bass ambush prey
- Near docks and riprap where bass hunt for food
3. Seasonal Strategies
| Season | Best Conditions for Wake Baits |
|---|---|
| Spring | Pre-spawn bass feeding near shore |
| Summer | Low-light conditions near structure |
| Fall | Bass chasing baitfish near the surface |
| Winter | Less effective, but can work on warmer days |
Wake Bait Gear Selection: Rod, Reel, and Line
Using the right gear improves your hookup ratio and presentation.
- Rod: 7′ to 7’6″ medium or medium-heavy, moderate action
- Reel: 6.3:1 to 7.1:1 baitcasting reel
- Line:
- Monofilament (12-17 lb) – Floats and allows natural movement
- Braid (30-40 lb) – Great for heavy cover
- Fluorocarbon (12-15 lb) – Sinks, which can reduce effectiveness
Common Wake Bait Mistakes to Avoid
- Retrieving Too Fast – A slow, steady wobble is key.
- Fishing in the Wrong Conditions – Wake baits work best in low-light or slightly choppy water.
- Using the Wrong Line – Fluorocarbon sinks, affecting the bait’s action.
- Ignoring Hook Sharpness – Regularly check hooks to ensure solid hooksets.
Pro Tips for Catching More Bass with Wake Baits
- “Wake baits shine when bass are actively feeding near the surface but aren’t fully committing to topwater.” – Pro Angler Kevin VanDam
- Use natural colors in clear water and brighter colors in stained water.
- Fish wake baits parallel to structure to keep them in the strike zone longer.
- Pay attention to wind direction—bass often position themselves facing into the wind.
All 3 of the top wake baits listed are excellent choices. Remember to pick a rod and reel specific for wake bait fishing. Using the tips and selections in this article you will be able to catch more bass!