What Is Finesse Fishing?

First of all, let's start by defining what finesse fishing is. There is a lot of debate around what exactly finesse fishing is, and while this won't be the definitive definition, it helps to get everyone on the same page. Finesse fishing is a style of angling that tends to be deployed when fish are not actively feeding, you're in heavily fished waters, in response to cold fronts, or are in clear water conditions where fish are more easily disturbed by noise and movement.

Finesse fishing differs from other techniques primarily due to smaller lure presentations and the subtlety of techniques used. Other approaches to fishing use larger lures and heavier gear to cover water quickly and entice strikes from aggressive fish.

Finesse Fishing Equipment

Rod and Reel Recommendations

When you're gearing up for finesse fishing, choosing the right rod and reel combo is key. You'll want a rod that's on the lighter side, something with a good amount of flex and sensitivity. Why? Because you're going to need to feel every little nibble and bump. A lot of anglers go for a spinning rod in the 6 to 7-foot range with a fast to extra-fast action. This gives you the precision for those delicate presentations. Recently there has been baitcast equipment that is specifically geared toward finesse fishing. Many utilize the term “BFS” or bait finesse system, when referring to a baitcast setup. For spinning, we recommend the Johnny Morris Carbonlite Technique Spinning Rod, and, for baitcast, its counterpart the Johnny Morris Carbonlite Technique Baitcast Rod.

For the reel, a smooth-operating spinning reel is your best friend. Look for one that handles light line well and has a flawless drag system. You're often playing with fish on the lighter line, and the last thing you want is a sticky drag when you hook into a surprisingly feisty one. A reel that can let line out smoothly and in a controlled manner can make the difference between a trophy and a tall tale about the one that got away. A great spinning reel that we suggest that includes all the optimized components for this is our Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel. If you are looking for an ideal baitcast reel look no further than our Johnny Morris CarbonLite Tech Baitcast Reel.

Fishing Line Recommendations

Your fishing line is your direct connection to the fish; it's often where the battle is won or lost. You want something that's strong for its diameter but still nearly invisible underwater. Fluorocarbon is a popular choice because of its low visibility and it offers enough sensitivity to telegraph those light bites up to your fingertips. Plus, it also has less stretch than monofilament, which is great for setting the hook at a distance. Some anglers prefer braided lines for their incredible sensitivity and lack of stretch. A current popular trend in the fishing industry is to splice braided lines to a fluorocarbon leader for the best of both worlds – sensitivity & invisibility. XPS Braid & XPS Fluorocarbon are up to the task to handle your finesse fishing challenges.

Fishing Lures & Baits

Now, the fun stuff – lures and baits. Finesse fishing often calls for downsized lures that mimic the natural diet of the fish. Soft plastic worms, rigged on a drop shot or a small jighead, are staples in the finesse world. They can be worked slowly and methodically to entice bites from wary fish. Other options include small creature baits, finesse jigs, and tiny crankbaits or spinnerbaits. You're aiming to present something that looks like an easy, unthreatening meal.

The color and action of these lures can be crucial, too. You might need to experiment to find what the fish are into on any given day. Sometimes, just the right action or a subtle color change is all it takes to turn a follower into a biter. Remember, finesse fishing isn't about overpowering fish; it's about outsmarting them with the right touch and bait presentation.

When to Finesse Fish

There are a few scenarios where finesse fishing really shines. Clear waters and calm waters are prime time for finesse fishing techniques. High-pressure systems, bright sun, and minimal wind can make fish timid and less likely to go for aggressive presentations.

Finesse fishing also comes into its own when you're dealing with heavily pressured waters. If the fish have seen every spinnerbait and crankbait known to humankind, they'll be wary of anything that looks out of place. That's when the subtle approach of finesse fishing can really shine.

Another ideal condition is when the water is cold, either early in the season or just after a cold front has rolled through. Fish tend to slow down and become less active in colder water, and a smaller, slower-moving bait can be just what it takes to coax them into biting.

Finesse Fishing Techniques

Let's talk about some of the most popular finesse fishing techniques that can really help entice wary fish.

The Drop Shot Rig

A drop shot rig is a finesse fishing technique that has become a staple among bass anglers but is versatile enough to target a variety of fish species. It's particularly effective in clear water situations or when the fish are not aggressively feeding. The rig positions the bait off the bottom, presenting it in a way that is both natural and highly appealing to fish.

When fishing a drop shot rig, the weight sits on the bottom, and the bait suspends above it. This setup keeps the bait in the strike zone and allows it to move enticingly with minimal effort, mimicking small baitfish or other prey. It's especially useful for vertical fishing, where you drop the rig straight down beside the boat or dock, but it can also be cast and retrieved horizontally.

The effectiveness of the drop shot rig lies in its ability to present the bait in a quivering, subtle manner that is not possible with most other rigs. It's a finesse technique that can coax bites from the most lethargic or suspicious fish, making it a powerful tool in an angler's arsenal.

Further Reading:Find out how to rig a Wacky-Rigger worm on a drop shot.

The Finesse Swimbait

A finesse swimbait is a smaller, more subtle version of the standard swimbait that is designed to mimic the look and movement of live baitfish. While traditional swimbaits can be quite large and are often used to target aggressive, active fish, finesse swimbaits are scaled down in size, generally ranging from 2 to 4 inches, and are typically used in situations where fish are more cautious or less active.

These swimbaits are usually rigged on lighter jig heads or small swimbait hooks. The weight of the jig head can vary, but it is generally lighter than what you would use for standard swimbaits, ranging from 1/16 to 1/4 ounce, depending on the depth and current.

Anglers fish finesse swimbaits with a smooth, steady retrieve that keeps the bait in the desired part of the water column. They can also be twitched or jigged subtly to mimic an injured baitfish. This has recently become one of the most popular tactics in tandem with your forward facing sonar technology.

Further Reading:Learn more about forward-facing technology.

Finesse Jigging

Fishing with a finesse jig is an effective way often used to deal with pressured or finicky fish. Finesse jigs are smaller and lighter than traditional jigs, generally in the 1/8 to 3/8-ounce range, and usually paired with a soft plastic trailer such as a creature bait, craw, or grub. This setup is then cast near cover or structures where fish are likely to be hiding. Various techniques can be used to tempt strikes including dragging, hopping, shaking, or dead-sticking.

Further Reading: Find 3 Can't-Miss Finesse Jig Fishing Presentations.

Final Thoughts

Remember, finesse fishing isn't just about the gear—it's a mindset and a strategic approach that aims to present your bait in the most natural, appealing manner possible to trigger bites from cautious or uninterested fish. Anglers who master this style of fishing can enjoy rewarding results, particularly in challenging conditions where traditional, aggressive tactics fall short. The key to finesse fishing lies in the subtle presentation of downsized lures and the use of light, sensitive equipment that allows for a delicate yet effective interaction with the fish. Keep casting and good luck!