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Classic Baits: Heddon Hellbender

Wade's World Fishing: The Heddon Hellbender, introduced in the 1950s, gives up nothing to modern diving crankbaits. However, because the Hellbender is new to many younger anglers, it’s a great option for catching pressured bass that are more used to seeing standard minnow-imitating crankbaits.

 

The Hellbender’s distinguishing feature is its metal heart-shaped lip that imparts a wide wobble and a steep dive angle to this bait. Also, when the lip contacts underwater cover it causes the bait to flip over the object without hanging.

The Hellbender comes in one size: 7/8 oz. It is available in a range of colors. The best source for on-line purchase is www.lurenet.com.

Following are additional tips about using Hellbenders to catch big largemouth.

  • Use medium-heavy casting tackle and 17- to 25-pound test line. This lure dives to 15 feet on 17-pound test line.
  • The Hellbender’s sharp diving angle makes it a good choice for fishing bluffs, steep banks, bridge pilings and other steep structure.
  • The Hellbender is an excellent choice for trolling as well as casting.
  • Fish rarely come “unbuttoned” from a Hellbender. They usually strike the lure sideways, getting both large treble hooks in their mouth.