By Bob Schmidt
The answer is yes, you can tune the Smile Blade for different species based on their behavior, the fishing conditions, and the desired lure action. Here is a starting point for how blade angles can be optimized for different species.
Remember to track your experiments; you will learn the most from the fish themselves.
Recommended Blade Angle: Wide blade angle
Why: Kokanee are often finicky and prefer subtle, rolling wobble actions. A wide blade angle slows the spin of the Smile Blade, creating a gentle motion that mimics natural prey and entices these soft-mouthed fish.
Conditions: Best for slow trolling (0.8–1.2 mph) in clear water or during low-light conditions when kokanee are feeding cautiously.
Recommended Blade Angle: Moderate to narrow blade angle.
Why: Trout are more aggressive feeders compared to kokanee. A moderate blade angle provides a balance of flash and vibration, while a narrower angle creates a faster spin to trigger reaction strikes from active trout.
Conditions: Ideal for trolling in murky water or during warmer parts of the day when trout are actively hunting.
Recommended Blade Angle: Narrow blade angle.
Why: Walleye respond well to fast-spinning blades that create strong vibrations, especially in deeper waters or low-visibility conditions. A narrow blade angle enhances these vibrations, making it easier for walleye to locate the lure.
Conditions: Effective in stained or deep water with more moderate trolling speeds (1.5–2 mph).
Recommended Blade Angle: Variable depending on conditions.
In cold water or when bass are lethargic, use a wider blade angle for a slower, more methodical presentation.
In warm water or when bass are actively feeding, use a narrower blade angle to create an aggressive spin that triggers reaction strikes.
Recommended Blade Angle: Start with a moderate angle and adjust based on fish activity.
Why: A moderate blade angle offers versatility by combining subtle wobble and noticeable vibration, making it effective for targeting mixed-species waters where kokanee, trout, or even perch might coexist.
Adjusting the blade angle is a powerful way to adapt your presentation to specific species and conditions. Wide angles work best for subtle presentations aimed at cautious fish like kokanee, while narrow angles excel in creating aggressive vibrations for species like walleye and trout. Fine-tuning the angle based on water clarity, fish activity levels, and trolling speed can significantly improve your success rate across various fishing scenarios.
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