Byron Velvick: Mastering Big Bait Bass Fishing
Byron Velvick has left an indelible mark on bass fishing with his expertise in big bait fishing. Renowned for his record-setting achievements and innovative lure designs, Velvick shares his insights on using large swim baits like the Livingston Lures Venom and Viper to catch trophy bass.
With a career spanning the BASS Elite Tour, FLW Tour, and Major League Fishing, Velvick’s accomplishments include multiple Bassmaster Classic appearances, U.S. Open victories, a Western Classic win, and a former BASS all-time heaviest three-day weight record of 83 pounds, 5 ounces—a record that stood for 20 years until forward-facing sonar changed the game.
A Legacy in Big Baits
Velvick’s name is synonymous with big baits, a niche he has championed for over 30 years. As a key member of Livingston Lures’ Pro Staff, he collaborated closely with the team to develop the Venom and Viper glide baits, drawing on his extensive experience with swim baits since the 1990s. “I took everything I knew and loved about glide baits and built it into the Venom and Viper,” Velvick explains. These lures combine the best features of past and present glide baits, offering anglers a versatile tool for targeting big bass.
Unlike traditional bass fishing with worms or drop shots, big bait fishing requires dedication. “It’s not like picking up a worm and catching 50 fish in a day,” Velvick says. Success with swim baits demands patience, the right conditions, and a willingness to endure slow days for the chance at a trophy fish.
Optimal Conditions for Swim Baits
Velvick emphasizes fishing swim baits under the right conditions to maximize success. For bass, he recommends water temperatures of 60°F or higher, as colder water in the 40s and 50s reduces bite frequency. Ideal conditions include sunny days with a light ripple on the water, which enhances visibility for fish. “Don’t go out on a cold, rainy, windy day with this as a primary tactic” Velvick advises. “The fish can’t see the bait as well.”
Timing is critical. Velvick suggests fishing from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and again from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., avoiding the midday lull between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. when bites typically drop off. “For someone learning, fish in the morning after safe light until 11, then pick it up again in the late afternoon,” he says. These windows align with peak feeding times, giving anglers the best chance to entice a strike with big swimbaits.
Targeting the Right Structure
When it comes to where to fish swim baits, Velvick’s advice is simple: “Throw it anywhere that looks fishy.” This includes boat docks, grass lines, stumps, or any structure where bass are likely to hold. Unlike smaller lures, swim baits stand out, offering fish something unique amidst the barrage of crankbaits and spinnerbaits they see daily. “You’re giving the fish something bigger and different to look at,” Velvick notes.
Water clarity is crucial—Velvick prefers clean water where the lure is visible near the boat, allowing anglers to spot followers. Forward-facing sonar users can target fish directly, casting to visible targets and observing their reactions. The Venom and Viper’s built-in electronic baitfish sound and adjustable weight system enhance their appeal, allowing anglers to fish them at varying depths to suit the situation.
Gear and Technique
To fish big baits effectively, Velvick relies on specialized equipment. He uses Trica’s upcoming Predator series rods, designed specifically for swim baits. Available in three models (X, XX, and XXX), these rods cater to different bait sizes, from 5-inch to 15-inch swim baits. “You can’t have just one swim bait rod,” Velvick says, emphasizing versatility. The rods feature a fast, soft action to absorb strikes and provide sensitivity, allowing anglers to feel the bait’s action.
For reels, Velvick prefers larger models (200 or 300 series) with slower gear ratios, ideally 6.3:1, to maintain a slow, deliberate retrieve. He pairs these with 17- to 20-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon, avoiding lines heavier than 25 pounds. “You’re slowly rolling this thing through the water,” he explains. “A fast reel makes you fish it too fast.”
Velvick’s retrieve is methodical, focusing on a slow, gliding action with occasional pops to trigger strikes. “The glide puts them in a trance,” he says, noting that a slight twitch can provoke a reaction from following fish. When it comes to hook sets, Velvick advises against aggressive sets. “Just sweep into them,” he says. “They hammer it, and the big treble hooks do the rest.” Surprisingly, swim baits catch fish of all sizes, from 14-inch bass to giants, proving their versatility.
Encouraging New Anglers
For anglers new to big bait fishing, Velvick acknowledges the learning curve but encourages persistence. “It’s a commitment,” he says, urging anglers to fish during optimal conditions to build confidence. The allure of big baits lies in their ability to attract trophy fish, but Velvick reminds anglers not to be surprised by smaller catches. “Expect to catch big ones, but don’t be shocked when you catch small ones,” he says, referencing the aggressive nature of bass.
Velvick’s passion for big baits has shaped his career and influenced the sport through his work with Livingston Lures. His advice—fish the right conditions, use specialized gear, and stay patient—offers a roadmap for anglers looking to master big bait bass fishing. As Velvick humorously notes, “If bass grew to 50 pounds, kids on jet skis wouldn’t be safe.” With swim baits, anglers tap into that predatory instinct, one glide at a time.
Livingston Lures
Chief Development Director