Great White Fluke Fishing part 1

Spring has arrived bringing much needed rains to fill our empty dams. Soon the exposed cover lying on the bank visible to the angler, will be covered. The warming weather also initiates the rejuvenation of vegetation in the shallows. These newly flooded areas will provide new hunting grounds for Mr and Mrs Bass, and by exploring the "GWF" fishing technique, anglers may benefit and we may even have a new convert or two by the end of summer as this technique really does work.

White Fluke

Background

I used to refer to myself as a "crankbait" fisherman as cranks have for years always produced good fish for me and was my "go to" confidence lure. I have however realised that in order to produce consistently you need to master new disciplines and explore other techniques. A bit of advice when trying out new techniques; give it a fair chance - don't just try it for a short while and then write it off as not being a productive technique. If I look at the Pro's or the guys that end up in the prizes at most tournaments they seem to consistently produce by having mastered most of the bass fishing techniques for the different conditions. As bass fishing plays a major role in my life, I am constantly trying to improve my skills and I always welcome any bit of advice and will even go to great expense testing new theories. I have flown around the country to spend time with mentors who are willing to share. On a recent trip to Cape Town, I made contact with Carl van Rooyen, who now in his 60's is still a very active and successful bass fisherman. Carl was willing to share some of his insights and during the 5 hour chat I tried to absorb as much info as possible. A couple of things Carl said made real sense to me, and after a bit of trail and error, it hit home. Most of my pervious season outings are testament to that. I am by no means saying this is the be all and end all, but has delivered some awesome results for me.

The colour theory

Most of the resident baitfish in our waters are light in colour and of the small bait fish I have seen they do have white/silver as being the predominant colour. Besides other forage, baitfish forms a major part of a bass's diet. Do these fish change colour in dirty water? I think not, so bass would have to adapt to eat these light coloured fish in dirty water as well. Thinking back I have caught many, many bass in the Vaal (which does not have the cleanest water) on a predominantly white crankbait. I am not saying a bass won't eat a junebug or dark coloured bait, but this interesting take on colour remains.

I have found that the pearl super fluke manufactured by Zoom has produced the best for me, however the theory would hold true for most of the lighter colours available. The same applies to size, as the junior as well as the huge 7 inch magnum does produce fish using this technique. The most important aspect in regard to lure choice is confidence. Try a couple of different colours, size and brands until you feel comfortable. Watch out for getting too complicated as you will end up changing lures all day and not fishing. I have caught many fish in brown muddy water on the white fluke, so don't be afraid to stick with it in dirty water, however if you feel uncomfortable, change to a darker colour.

I have found by putting the colour theory to test, fish have fell victim to the GWF in most of the KZN dams including Inanda, Albert Falls, Goedertrouw and Bivane, each having their own differing water clarity.

I hope Part 1 has wet your appetite and in the Part 2 of "GWF - A Sure Winner", I will be covering tackle requirements, presentation techniques and selecting the correct area's to unleash this fantastic technique.

Vaalboy
Bassing.co.za Pro Staff Member

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