Soft plastics are the go-to lures for targeting Australian bass. Whether you’re casting into timber, slow-rolling across weed beds, or twitching through deep snags, the right soft plastic combined with the right rod can turn a slow day into a hot session.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best soft plastics for Aussie bass in 2025, how to fish them effectively, and which spinning rods (like the X1 or U1) give you the perfect balance of sensitivity, control, and casting precision.
🧵 1. Types of Soft Plastics That Work for Bass
🐛
Grubs (Curly Tail Worms)
These are excellent for finesse presentations — especially in cooler months.
-
Best Rig: 1/16 – 1/8 oz jighead
-
Retrieve: Slow roll or dead stick
-
Rod Match: U1 662ML for subtle presentation
🐟
Paddle Tails (2”–3”)
Highly versatile, great for covering water and finding active fish.
-
Best Rig: 1/12 – 1/6 oz jighead
-
Retrieve: Medium-paced straight retrieve
-
Rod Match: X1 702ML for better casting distance
🪱
Creature Baits / Craws
Perfect for vertical jigging near timber or skipping under overhangs.
-
Best Rig: Weedless Texas rig or light jighead
-
Retrieve: Hops and pauses
-
Rod Match: X1 682M for stronger hooksets in cover
🦐
Soft Shrimp Imitations
Best when bass are feeding on prawns or schooling baitfish in rivers or lakes.
-
Best Rig: Light jighead or weedless
-
Retrieve: Twitches with pauses
-
Rod Match: U1 702UL for ultra-finesse work
⚙️ 2. Ideal Rod Characteristics for Soft Plastics
|
Feature |
Why It Matters |
|---|---|
|
Length: 6’6”–7’2” |
Gives you casting distance + accuracy |
|
Power: Medium-Light |
Enough strength without overkill |
|
Action: Fast or Extra Fast |
Sensitive tip to feel subtle takes |
|
Build: Graphite or carbon |
Lightweight + responsive blank |
🧰 3. Matching Rods to Soft Plastics – Favorite Picks
🎯
Favorite X1 702ML
-
Best all-rounder for paddle tails & grubs
-
Extra fast tip for better bite detection
-
Great for both land-based and boat anglers
🎯
Favorite U1 662ML
-
Perfect for lightweight plastics in tight structure
-
Shorter rod = better accuracy
-
Great choice for beginners
🧠 4. Pro Tips for Fishing Plastics for Bass
-
Use braided line (6–10lb) with a fluorocarbon leader (6–12lb)
-
Always match your jighead weight to depth and current
-
Experiment with retrieves — slow roll, twitch-pause, lift-drop
-
Bass often bite on the pause, so stay alert
❓ FAQ: Soft Plastics for Bass Fishing in Australia
Q: What’s the best soft plastic for Australian bass?
A: Paddle tails are the most versatile, but curly tail grubs work great in cold water.
Q: Which rod suits soft plastics the best?
A: A fast-action 6’6” to 7’2” spinning rod like the Favorite X1 702ML is ideal.
Q: Do I need different rods for different soft plastics?
A: It helps. A shorter rod is better for close, accurate casts. Longer rods shine in open water.
🔗 Related Reading