Joe,
I use the largest spinner bucktails I can pull with my rod in the Spring. I also use large shallow-running Rapalas and the largest suspending Thundersticks and fish them pretty much like a Suick, Bobby, or Big Eddie - jerks and pauses. But I generally do not take heavy enough tackle to fish the biggest jerk baits well, because I don't need that for the other species, which I fish as much as I do northern. I've landed some pretty big northerns on medium-heavy action spinning gear which can be a real fun challenge. I've also used heavier casting gear, but it's just not as versatile for all-around fishing.

Posted by Jeff K. on March 22, 2000 at 21:46