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Classic Baits: Spence Scout

Wade's World Fishing: A good old lure is still a good lure, and when anglers get away from using it, it reverts back to being a good new lure.

This is true for the Strike King Spence Scout, a 3/8-ounce shallow-running crankbait that is known for catching big bass from heavy cover. However, this classic bait is little-used today, meaning the fish don’t see it much and this imparts a “new bait” attraction.

Fish the Spence Scout in the same places where you would cast spinnerbaits. Bass that might be wise to spinnerbaits may readily be attracted to the unfamiliar action of the Scout.

This bait has two “eyes” for tying the line. Tying to the lower eye causes the bait to run shallower (approximately 6 inches below the surface) with a wider action. Tying to the upper eye causes the bait to run deeper with a tighter vibration pattern.

This lure is especially effective for fishing over sunken vegetation beds and woody cover, across shallow flats and through reeds. It is virtually snag-free in these applications.

To view a list of tackle dealers who sell Strike King Lures, visit www.strikeking.com.

Here are additional tips for using Spence Scouts to catch more bass.

  • Use medium-heavy tackle and 20- to 25-pound test monofilament line. The heavy line helps keep the bait shallow.
  • The Spence Scout is a great lure choice for stained or dirty water, due to its wide wobble and noise produced by rattles.
  • To walk the dog with this lure, tie to the lower ring, hold the rod tip high and reel slowly. The lure will pulse back-and-forth on its own.
  • When a fish strikes, set the hook sharply and try to move the fish out of the cover immediately, before it has a chance to burrow in.