Promise Keeper: Pro Tips and Tactics

COEY COULSON

As a Mack’s Pro Angler and a tournament-winning fisherman, Coey is passionate about sharing his fishing knowledge with others.

Be sure to check out his YouTube channel @CountryBoy360, where you’ll find him in his kayak, exploring freshwater lakes, or taking on the challenges of saltwater fishing. 

This month, he's sharing Promise Keeper tips to help you get the more out of your time on the water.

When the Bites Are Hard to Come By

We’ve all had those frustrating days at the lake when the fish are tight-lipped. You made your way to your favorite spot, set the lines, and then...wait. When I am fishing from my kayak, or even when I’m out on my Crestliner, it’s not always practical to pick up and move. That’s when it's time to slow down and dissect the area I’m fishing in.

Start by observing the water conditions, the weather, and any visible signs of fish activity. Look for:

• Jumping Fish: Are there any fish breaking the surface? This can indicate feeding activity.
  
  
• Baitfish Schools: If you spot schools of baitfish, there’s a good chance the predators will be there soon too.
  
  
• Water Clarity: Stained or clear water can dictate taking different approaches in lure color or action desired.

By observing the conditions, you can tailor your strategy to suit the conditions.

Patience is Key

While it can be tempting to keep changing spots, sometimes the best approach is to remain patient. Fish can be finicky, and they might just need some time to become interested in what you’re offering. Try using different techniques and lure combinations and take a moment to observe everything you can about the water and fish behavior.

Rigging with Various Combinations

One of my go-to strategies is to experiment with different combinations. For example, if I’m not getting bites with the Promise Keeper as is, I might change to a brighter color, a larger profile, or even pair it with a different type of hook. Sometimes, a simple change in presentation can make a world of difference.

Other times you may need to take a more creative approach, such as adjusting the Smile Blade or combining the Promise Keeper with another lure. I’ve had great success removing the Smile Blade from the Smile Blade Fly and then using the fly as my hook on the Promise Keeper to appeal to those fish with different feeding preferences.

The Magic of Flexibility

One secret to using the Promise Keeper effectively is to remain flexible in your techniques. I’ve had days where the bites are on fire when casting and retrieving the lure slowly, and other times with an erratic retrieve. I’ve also experienced great success trolling it both alone or with an attractor such as the Double D Dodger or Hot Wings. Trolling is a great way to cover more water. Being adaptable can turn an average day into an outstanding one as it often allows you to discover how the fish want you to present the lure.

Reading the Water

Part of being flexible is learning to read the water. Different fish species have various preferences for structure, depth, and cover. When I’m on the water, I pay close attention to the features around me—like submerged rocks, fallen trees, or weed beds. These structures often hold fish, so if you’re struggling to get bites, try targeting these areas by casting your Promise Keeper.

PRO TIP:  For instance, if I’m fishing a lake with a lot of vegetation, I’ll cast the Promise Keeper along the edges of the weeds or just beyond submerged structures. The vibrations and flash from the lure can trigger strikes from lurking fish that are waiting for an easy meal.

Adjusting Your Retrieval Speed

A vital aspect of being flexible is adjusting your retrieval speed. Some days, fish may respond better to a slow and steady retrieve, while on other days, they are wanting a faster, or more erratic motion. As a rule of thumb, if you’re not getting bites after a few casts, try changing the speed of your retrieve.

PRO TIP:  I often experiment with different speeds and patterns until I find what the fish are responding to. For example, I might start with a slow, steady retrieve, and if that doesn’t yield any bites, I might speed it up or add in some twitches or pauses to make the lure look more appealing.

Casting the Promise Keeper

When I cast the Promise Keeper, there are two key things I keep in mind to maximize my chances of success:

• Vibration:  The action of the lure sends out vibration waves that fish can detect through their lateral lines long before they see it. This is especially crucial in stained or murky water, where visibility is low. The vibrations can attract fish from a distance, drawing them in to investigate.
  

  PRO TIP:  To enhance vibration, use an erratic retrieval technique by twitching the lure while reeling, making it more likely that fish will notice your lure.

• Visual Appeal:  In stained water, fish will be drawn to bright colors and the flash of the Smile Blade as it moves through the water. This dual appeal—vibration coupled with visual stimulation—makes the Promise Keeper a standout choice even in tough fishing conditions.

To enhance visibility further, consider a couple of adjustments:

• Glo Hooks: In low-light conditions, swapping out the dressed hook for a Mack’s Lure Glo Hook can significantly improve your chances of attracting fish. Choose a size and color that suits your Promise Keeper for the best effect.
  
  
• Smile Blade Fly: For a larger profile that can trigger inactive fish, change the treble hook out for a Mack’s Lure Smile Blade Fly. This adjustment gives the bait more size, and the dancing fly can really grab the attention of nearby fish. Just remember to remove the Smile Blade from the fly when using it with the Promise Keeper, as this will help maintain the desired action.

Casting Techniques 

When casting, I like to focus on my technique to ensure that I’m presenting the lure in the best way possible. Here are a few tips to improve your casting:

• Use a Sidearm Cast: This technique allows for better accuracy, particularly when you need to place your lure near structures or in tight spots.
  
  
• Adjust Your Angle: Depending on the wind and current, adjusting your angle can help you achieve a more natural presentation. If the wind is blowing toward you, aim slightly upstream to allow the lure to drift naturally.
  
  
• Practice Your Timing: Timing your cast can make a huge difference, especially when targeting fish in shallow waters. A well-timed cast that lands quietly can often be the difference between a bite and a missed opportunity.

Trolling with the Promise Keeper

Trolling has become one of my favorite methods for using the Promise Keeper. It’s a fantastic way to cover more water, especially if you’re fishing with someone inexperienced or a young angler.

Here are a few setups I like when I’m trolling:

• Solo Trolling:  You can troll the lure itself; it’s weighted and has enough flash to attract fish on its own. Sometimes, I even use a weighted line for an extra edge. This method is straightforward and effective, particularly when you’re searching for active fish.
  
  
• Attractors:  Try running the Promise Keeper behind Mack’s Lure Hot Wings, Flash Lite Troll, or Troll Lite Flasher for added effectiveness. These attractors create extra movement and flash in the water, which can help draw fish in from further distances.
  
  
• Dodger Action:  On those days when the fish are looking for more action, running the Promise Keeper behind a Double D Dodger or Sling Blade can create that enticing back-and-forth movement that many fish find irresistible. The action from the dodger can enhance the lure’s appeal, increasing your chances of getting a bite.

Trolling Depths and Speeds

When trolling, keep in mind that different species of fish often are at different depths. For example, trout often tend to hang out at deeper levels during warmer months, while bass might still be found near the surface. Adjust your trolling depth accordingly by using weighted lines or downriggers to reach the desired level.

Additionally, keep an eye on your trolling speed. Generally, a speed of 1 to 3 mph works well for most species, but this can vary depending on the fish you’re targeting. If you’re not getting bites, don’t hesitate to tweak your speed until you find what works for the day.

Setting Up Your Trolling Gear

When preparing to troll, make sure you have the right gear. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re ready:

• Trolling Rods:  Choose rods with a medium to medium-heavy action for handling the stress of trolling and the potential size of the fish. Longer rods can help you cover more water.
  
  
• Reels:  A quality reel with a smooth drag system will allow you to handle unexpected strikes effectively.
  
  
• Line:  Use a braided line for better sensitivity and strength, especially when targeting larger fish.
  
  
• Plan Your Route:  Before you start trolling, map out your route, considering areas with known fish activity, structure, or current lines. This planning can save you time and increase your chances of success.

Choosing the Right Rod

PRO TIP: The rod you use can greatly impact your success with the Promise Keeper. Based on my experience, a trolling rod works best while trolling, whereas a medium-light (ML) rod is ideal for casting. The lightweight action of both types makes catching fish on the Promise Keeper a breeze, whether you’re in a kayak or a boat.

Characteristics of an Ideal Rod

When selecting a rod for your fishing style, consider the following characteristics:

• Length:  A longer rod (7-9 feet) can cast farther and cover more water, while shorter rods (6-7 feet) offer better control, especially in tight spots.
  
  
• Action:  Choose a rod with moderate action for trolling and medium-light action for casting. This balance provides sensitivity to detect bites while still having enough backbone to handle larger fish.
  
  
• Material: Graphite rods are lightweight and sensitive, making them a good choice for casting. Fiberglass rods are more durable and can handle rough conditions, making them suitable for trolling.

Selecting the Right Reel

The right reel is just as important as the rod. Consider the following:

• Gear Ratio:  A higher gear ratio allows for faster retrieval, which can be useful when you need to reel in quickly. However, a lower gear ratio provides more torque for reeling in larger fish.
  
  
• Drag System:  A smooth drag system is essential for preventing line breakage during a fight. Make sure your reel has a reliable drag system that you can adjust easily.

Reel Maintenance

Don’t forget about maintenance! Regularly clean and lubricate your reels to ensure smooth operation. Check for any signs of wear and tear, and replace worn parts as needed to keep your gear in top condition.

The Importance of Timing

Timing can also play a crucial role in your success. Different fish species have specific feeding times, often dictated by the time of day or weather conditions.

PRO TIP:  Early mornings and late afternoons are generally prime times for fishing, but it’s essential to be aware of any changes in activity throughout the day. If you notice increased fish activity at a certain time, make a note of it for your future outings.

Conclusion

Remember, every angler has their unique style and approach, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find what works best for you. Embrace each outing as an opportunity to build your confidence and figure out what works best for you. 

By methodically fishing the Promise Keeper with patience, precision, and the right techniques, you can turn what seems like an average outing into an amazing one. Remember that fishing is often about the process as much as it is about the catch. Enjoy the time spent on the water, embrace the challenges, and celebrate the small victories along the way.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait to share more of my favorite fishing tips and tactics with you in the months ahead. Keep an eye on the Mack Attack for more of my Pro Tips and don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel for more fishing adventures! 

Mack's Lure Pro Angler, Coey Coulson
Find Coey Coulson on YouTube @Countryboy360