3/1/2025
YouTube Video Link: https://youtu.be/H8i-ckU3NBY?si=8DtJ2LRNIxvIk3jl
Summary of Transcript Part 1 (Full Video)
Start Time: 00:00:00
End Time: 00:20:06
Overview of the Episode
- Guest: Alec Morrison – Major League Fishing Invitationals Angler of the Year & Rookie of the Year.
- Topic: A simple but highly effective modification for the 5-inch Megabass Magdraft swimbait.
- Purpose: Show how this adjustment allows the bait to be fished deeper, more effectively, and in more scenarios than the stock version.
The Mod: Split Ring and Drop Shot Weight
What is the Modification?
- Attach a split ring to the bottom hook hanger of the 5-inch Magdraft.
- Clip a closed-eye drop shot weight to the ring (e.g., 1/4 oz weight).
- The bait now falls nose-down, swims level, and maintains balance at all retrieve speeds.
Why It Works
- Adds weight to the lowest point of the bait for better balance.
- Makes the bait fall vertically and swim nose-down, attracting more bites on the fall.
- Increases the bait’s versatility across a wide range of depths.
Weight Shape Considerations
- Cylinder, teardrop, or round weights all work.
- Cylinder is preferred for sensitivity and minimal drag on bottom.
Key Techniques and Strategic Takeaways
Fall and Sink Strategy
- The bait falls vertically, nose-down, with a natural swim.
- As the angler begins the retrieve, it levels out and swims straight.
- Fish often strike during the fall. Alec mentions catching multiple bass this way.
Line and Tackle Adjustments
- Downsize line compared to the 6-inch Magdraft version.
- Use lighter setups when targeting shallow or suspended fish.
Retrieve Speed Flexibility
- The bait remains stable whether retrieved slowly or burned quickly.
- Unlike unweighted versions, it won’t roll or “blow out” on faster retrieves.
Advantage Over Nail Weights
- Nail weights require careful placement and tuning.
- The drop shot weight method is easier, automatically centers the weight, and improves balance without compromising the swim.
Weight Options and Application Scenarios
| Weight Size | Scenario |
|---|---|
| 1/4 oz | General purpose, targeting fish 10–30 feet deep |
| 3/16 oz | Shallower water or slower fall |
| 3/8 oz or 1/2 oz | For deeper fishing or larger Magdraft sizes (6″ or 8″) |
| 3/4 oz (theoretical) | Very deep water such as 40-foot smallmouth scenarios |
Ideal Conditions and Water Columns
- Best used during pre-spawn, summer offshore fishing, or when bass are suspended in open water.
- Particularly useful around:
- Standing timber
- Drop-offs
- Grass edges
- Deep clear lakes (e.g., Lake Erie)
- Allows targeting fish in different parts of the water column by adjusting weight and retrieve style.
Bait Profile and Comparisons
5-Inch Magdraft Characteristics
- Downsized from the 6-inch version but maintains the same swim profile.
- Out-of-the-box action is ideal for shallow water and slow retrieve.
- Redesigned to swim better and avoid blowout issues seen in the older 5-inch versions.
Harness Magdraft vs. Standard Swimbaits
- Magdraft: More lifelike, slower tail kick, and more stable on retrieve.
- Kitech or Rage Swimmer: Faster action, better for covering water quickly.
- The Magdraft generally gets bigger bites, especially in colder or clearer water conditions.
Final Takeaway
- The Magdraft mod allows anglers to fish deeper, more effectively, and in new situations without compromising the bait’s natural swimming action.
- The modification is easy and quick, but significantly improves performance and fish-catching potential.
- Alec emphasizes that experimentation with bait modifications can lead to better results and more versatility on the water.
