Take Your Golden Shiner for a Walk
When I think of Florida topwater fishing, it’s prop baits like the classic Devil’s Horse that come to mind immediately, but I’ve caught plenty of fish down there with poppers and when it’s time to really cover water a walking bait can be exceptional. If you’re planning to bring spook-style lures to the Sunshine State, you’d better have a handful that match the mule-ear-sized golden shiners Florida strain bass feast upon. Here are some of our favorites:
Golden Shiner
GM Black Gold
Gold Shad
Gold Black
Golden Shiner
Real Golden Shiner
And while I recognize that line type and size is a very personal matter, if you’re fishing around Florida’s heavy grass I highly recommend a main line of 30-40 pound test braid, with or without a very short fluorocarbon or monofilament leader.
Compare the Daiwa Saltiga, 2026 Certate SW, and 2026 BG SW saltwater spinning reels. Learn the key differences, best uses, and which offshore reel is right for your next fishing adventure and budget.