Swimbaits have been all the rage in recent years and for good reason; they produce catches of large bass. A key component when selecting a swimbait is to make sure you have the right jig head to match. Two guys in central Kentucky are making swimbait heads that I was for
tunate to test out last month. John Sparr and Chris Holtzclaw formed Elite Pro Custom Bait Company and one of their best selling products are their custom swimbait jigheads.
The jigs come in two head designs and are offered in ¼-, 3/8- and ½-ounce sizes. They will paint the heads to match what you desire. The ¼-ounce size comes with a 4/0 hook while the 3/8- and ½-ounce heads carry a 5/0 hook.
The hook has a bait keep that is wrapped around the shank of the hook, which holds the swimbait in place without the use of super glue. I fished the ½-ounce size on a recent smallmouth trip to Dale Hollow Lake, using a Big Hammer Swimbait in SmallyChaser color, a color designed by Dale Hollow guide Keith Palmiero. I was impressed how well the bait keeper held the soft plastic on the hook and very excited by the wide wobble the heads put off when combined with the action of the swimbait.
The Elite Pro lures are made part time as both men work full-time jobs. In addition to swimbait heads they also produce jigs, umbrella rigs and rod covers. You can find out more by emailing elite.pro@aol.com or calling (859) 583-6581 or (606) 425-0388.
