Flipping & Pitching
Flipping uses a shortened line for pendulum-style presentations within 15 feet. Pitching covers 15–40 feet with an underhand cast. Both deliver baits silently into docks, laydowns, and grass edges. Big bass in heavy cover are the target — this is where giants live.
Setup & Gear
| Rod | 7'3"–7'6" heavy or extra-heavy casting rod, fast action |
| Reel | 7.1:1–8.1:1 baitcaster |
| Line | 50–65 lb braid or 20–25 lb fluorocarbon |
| Weight | 3/8–1 oz pegged tungsten, matched to cover density |
| Hook | 4/0–5/0 straight shank flipping hook |
Best Conditions
Thick grass mats, laydowns, dock pilings, boat houses, flooded bushes; murky water; spawn and post-spawn; summer shade
Seasonal Tactics
Pitch to buck brush and flooded timber during pre-spawn. Jig or crawfish-colored creature bait.
Punch through grass mats with 1–1.5 oz weights. Fish the shade under mats where big bass hide from heat.
Target dock ends and remaining grass. Fish move shallower as water cools.
Slow flip to deep docks and boat lifts. Swim the bait down slowly on the fall.
Watch the line, not the water. Set the hook the instant the line twitches or moves sideways — bass in cover bite and spit fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What rod and reel do I need for Flipping & Pitching?
7'3"–7'6" heavy or extra-heavy casting rod, fast action. Pair it with a 7.1:1–8.1:1 baitcaster, spooled with 50–65 lb braid or 20–25 lb fluorocarbon. Use 3/8–1 oz pegged tungsten, matched to cover density.
What conditions are best for Flipping & Pitching?
Thick grass mats, laydowns, dock pilings, boat houses, flooded bushes; murky water; spawn and post-spawn; summer shade
When is the best season to fish the Flipping & Pitching?
Spring: Pitch to buck brush and flooded timber during pre-spawn. Jig or crawfish-colored creature bait. Fall: Target dock ends and remaining grass. Fish move shallower as water cools.
What is the biggest mistake anglers make with the Flipping & Pitching?
Watch the line, not the water. Set the hook the instant the line twitches or moves sideways — bass in cover bite and spit fast.
More Techniques
Want to know when to throw this?
Ask Hank about your specific lake, water temp, and conditions — he'll tell you exactly what to tie on.
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