With more and more anglers coming to the lakes each year, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the competition. Recently, I’ve been trying to figure out just that, testing a variety of different fish attractants. Over the last few years, I’ve become a diehard scent bait fanatic and have spent a lot of time trying to figure out which ones are most effective. I’ve tested over 20 scents on different fishing grounds and have found that certain scents work better for certain species of bass. This list details some of my personal favorites and when I like to use them, depending on their effectiveness and the species of bass I’m trying to target.
BERKLEY MAXSCENT
Berkley MaxScent is a popular choice for bass fishing due to its enhanced scent technology. The lure’s formula is designed to emit a strong, lingering scent that mimics natural prey and attracts bass more effectively than other lures. The scent disperses slowly, making it easier for bass to find and hold onto the lure. Unlike other lures, this scent is embedded throughout the soft plastic lure, greatly improving both the longevity and effectiveness of your scent.
I use Berkley MaxScent when fishing in areas where bass are active but less aggressive. I also use this scent when the water is cloudy or murky, as the strong scent can attract fish in low visibility conditions. It is especially effective in low light or when fish are less likely to chase fast-moving reaction baits. I have used this bait for all three species of bass, but it is especially effective on smallmouth bass. Berkley offers a wide range of baits with the Maxscent formula, so you are sure to find the perfect choice for your local fishing area.
Buy from Tackle Warehouse
Buy from Bass Pro
NORIES AGING BASS LIQUID
Nories Aging Bass Liquid is another effective scent that has a unique formula that mimics the natural scent of prey fish. It contains amino acids and other attractants that create a strong scent trail and entice bass to bite even in difficult conditions. This scent is especially good at masking human scents and adding an element of realism that bass find hard to resist.
You should use Norie’s Aging Bass Liquid in situations where the fish are being picky or less aggressive when feeding. It is also beneficial in clear water where the scent trail can help bass find your bait more easily. Applying it in cooler water temperatures or at times when bass are less active can also improve your chances of bites. I use this scent by putting it in a bag of the soft plastic baits I want and then letting them soak for up to three days. This allows the plastic to absorb the scent, allowing for a longer lasting scent trail. I have used this scent on all three species of bass, but have had the most success on smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Buy at KKJAPANLURE.com
BERKLEY SIP
Berkley Gulp is another great scent for bass as it has a highly effective attractant formula that releases a strong and natural smelling scent into the water. This scent mimics the smell of natural prey, making it very attractive to bass and increasing their likelihood of biting. Gulp baits are also laced with a special attractant that spreads quickly and stays effective longer than many traditional baits.
You should use Berkley Gulp when you want to target bass in crowded areas or places with strong current. This bait leaves a distinct scent trail, allowing bass to follow your bait in strong current. It is especially effective in murky or cloudy water, where the strong scent can help bass find the bait. It also works well in colder water temperatures or when bass are less aggressive, as the strong scent can trigger more bites by attracting bass that would otherwise be less inclined to bite. I have used Gulp scents on all three species of bass and they all seem to respond positively to this specific scent.
Buy from Tackle Warehouse
Buy from Bass Pro
Bait fuel
Bait Fuel is another effective scent that cannot be left unmentioned. It uses a special formula that combines fish oils and other attractants to create a strong and long-lasting scent trail. This scent mimics the natural smell of the prey, making it more attractive to bass and increasing the likelihood of them biting. Bait Fuel’s unique technology also ensures that the scent sticks to the bait better and for longer, increasing its effectiveness.
You should use Bait Fuel in situations where you need to increase the attractiveness of your bait, such as during difficult fishing conditions or when the bass are not feeding aggressively. It is especially useful in clear or pressured waters where a strong scent can make a significant difference. Additionally, it can be beneficial in colder water temperatures or during times when the bass are less active, as the scent can entice them to bite. Another reason I prefer Bait Fuel is its stain-free formula. You can spill this scent on your boat carpet or clothing without getting annoying stains or smelly residue. I have used this scent all over the country and found it particularly effective when fishing for sluggish largemouth bass and smallmouth bass.
Buy from Tackle Warehouse
Buy from Bass Pro
BANG FISH ATTRACTIVE
Bang Fish Attractant, especially the garlic scented version, is popular with bass anglers for several reasons. The scent can increase the effectiveness of a lure by masking human odors and adding a strong, appealing aroma that attracts bass. Garlic is known to be a strong scent for bass because it can stimulate their feeding instinct.
This can be particularly useful in a variety of conditions. In cold water, for example, where bass are less active and their sense of smell is limited, adding scent can pique their interest. In murky water, where visual cues are limited, a strong scent will help fish find your bait more effectively. Additionally, in areas of high fishing pressure where bass might be more cautious, a scent can be beneficial by making your bait more enticing. This scent is administered with a spray bottle, and I tend to reapply the scent after about 30 minutes of continuous fishing. I have used this scent for all three species of bass, but prefer it for fishing for largemouth bass and smallmouth bass because this scent matches the prey found in those areas.
Buy from Tackle Warehouse
Buy from Bass Pro
It’s no secret that catching fish is getting harder and harder. While that may be true, you can easily get a few extra bites with scents. While scents aren’t always necessary, they can never hurt you. If you’re looking for new ways to get a few extra bites this season, I highly recommend trying some of these tried and tested fish attractants.
