Late summer fishing for panfish and bass with light tackle and finesse techniques can be challenging and rewarding. Using ultralight rods and reels with thin, sensitive lines allows for precise presentations and a more natural lure action. Finesse-style tackle, such as small soft plastics, jigs, and drop shots, can entice wary fish in clear waters and heavily pressured fishing spots. Patience and the proper blank are vital for detecting strikes in late summer fishing. Here are a few of our favorite blanks for late summer light tackle and finesse-style fishing.
Light Tackle & Finesse – Choice 1:
Light-69LM – Forge Light 6’9″ Light Moderate 4-8lb 1/16-3/8oz
Dropshot fishing can be an extremely effective tactic year-round for panfish and bass, and the Light-69LM‘s light power and moderate action make it the ideal blank for the job.
Light Tackle & Finesse – Choice 2:
Ultralight-60ULM – Forge Ultralight 6’0″ UL Moderate 2-6lb 1/32-3/16oz
Do you love spending time exploring local creeks with an ultralight? The 60ULM is the perfect blank for launching light lures like rooster tails and maribou jigs for trout, small bass, and bream.
Light Tackle & Finesse – Choice 3:
Ultralight-70ULM – Forge Ultralight 7’0″ UL Moderate 2-6lb 1/32-3/16oz
Maximize your casting distance on ultralight tackle with the Ultralight-70ULM. This seven-foot, all-around light tackle blank allows you to cast further without losing the “ultralight” feel when detecting a bite and setting the hook on trout, bass, or panfish. Many of our builders have used the 70ULM to build rods specifically targeting crappie.
