Swimbait fishing has revolutionized how anglers target big bass, and one of the most effective options in this category is the Megabass Magdraft Swimbait. Known for its lifelike action, innovative hook design, and ability to trigger aggressive strikes, the Magdraft is a must-have for serious anglers. However, fishing it effectively requires the right approach, from selecting prime locations to mastering retrieval techniques. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to fish the Magdraft swimbait.
What Makes the Megabass Magdraft Unique?
Magnetized Treble Hook System
One of the standout features of the Magdraft swimbait is its magnetized treble hook system. This design keeps the hook flush against the body of the bait, reducing the risk of snagging on vegetation or structure while maintaining a natural look. When a fish strikes, the hook detaches seamlessly, ensuring solid hookups and preventing missed opportunities.
Additionally, this system helps anglers by keeping the hook hidden, making the bait appear more like an actual baitfish. By reducing unnatural visual cues, bass are more likely to commit to a full strike rather than just following or nudging the bait. This leads to higher hookup rates and more successful landings.
Realistic Swimming Action
The Megabass Magdraft is designed to mimic the natural movement of baitfish, setting it apart from many other swimbaits on the market. Unlike traditional paddle tail swimbaits that mainly rely on tail movement, the Magdraft’s design ensures both tail and head movement, making it appear more lifelike.
This dual-motion swimming action is crucial when targeting bass in clear water, where they have more time to scrutinize their prey. The realistic wobble and side-to-side shimmy effect create an irresistible motion that triggers predatory instincts. When retrieved at a moderate speed, the Magdraft maintains its balance and does not roll unnaturally, a common problem with many other swimbaits.
Balanced Design
The balance of the Magdraft swimbait is another major factor in its effectiveness. Thanks to its precisely weighted body, the lure remains in a natural, horizontal position even when paused. This is especially beneficial when working the bait near structure or along drop-offs, as a properly balanced lure looks more like a real baitfish.
When a swimbait rolls onto its side or behaves erratically after a pause, bass often become suspicious and refuse to bite. The Magdraft’s stability prevents this issue, allowing it always to maintain a realistic posture. This feature is particularly important when using pause-and-go retrieval techniques, where maintaining a natural profile can mean the difference between getting a strike or getting ignored.
Built-in Pectoral Fins
The Magdraft is equipped with built-in pectoral fins, which serve multiple purposes beyond just adding to its lifelike appearance. These fins help stabilize the lure during retrieval, preventing unwanted rolling and ensuring smooth swimming action.
Additionally, the pectoral fins play a role in depth control. They create subtle resistance in the water, allowing anglers to maintain better control over the bait’s swimming depth. This makes it easier to keep the Magdraft at the desired level in the water column, whether fishing above submerged grass, near rocky points, or along shaded docks.
Durable Construction
Unlike many swimbaits that tear easily after just a few fish, the Magdraft is built with high-quality materials designed for durability. This means anglers can land multiple fish on a single bait without needing to replace it, saving both time and money.
The combination of durable plastics and reinforced hook attachment points ensures that the Magdraft can withstand the strain of aggressive strikes and extended battles. Whether you’re targeting largemouths, smallmouths, or even toothy predators like pike, this bait is designed to endure through multiple catches.
Where and When to Fish the Magdraft
To get the most out of the Magdraft swimbait, you need to understand where and when to throw it. This lure excels in areas where big bass are hunting larger prey, such as bluegill, shad, or trout.
High-Percentage Areas to Target
- Laydowns and Timber – Bass often stage around fallen trees and submerged wood, making these prime ambush points.
- Grass Lines and Weed Edges – Slow-rolling the Magdraft along the edges of submerged vegetation can produce explosive strikes.
- Shade Pockets and Docks – Bass use shaded areas to hide and ambush prey, making docks and overhanging trees excellent targets.
- Tapering Points and Wind-Blown Areas – Points that extend into deeper water often hold big bass, especially when wind-driven baitfish gather.
Best Seasons and Conditions
- Spring and Fall – These are peak times when bass are actively feeding on large baitfish.
- Low Light Conditions – Overcast days, early mornings, and late afternoons tend to produce the best action.
- Moderate to Clear Water – The Magdraft’s lifelike appearance shines in water where visibility allows bass to track it from a distance.
Recommended Gear for Fishing the Magdraft
Selecting the right gear is crucial to effectively fish the 6-inch and 8-inch Magdraft swimbaits. Professional angler Chris Zaldain has relied on these swimbaits throughout his tournament career, fine-tuning his setup to maximize performance.
Magdraft 6-inch Rod/Reel Setup
- Rod: Megabass F7-72XX Perfect Pitch – Provides the right blend of sensitivity and power for precise casts and solid hooksets.
- Reel: Medium-capacity baitcasting reel with a 6.3:1 to 7.1:1 gear ratio – Ensures smooth retrieval and control.
- Line: 15-20 lb fluorocarbon – Offers strength while maintaining the bait’s natural swimming action.
Magdraft 8-inch Rod/Reel Setup
- Rod: Megabass F10-80XX or F10-711LV – Both provide the backbone needed to handle the larger 8-inch swimbait.
- Reel: Heavy-duty baitcasting reel with a 5.1:1 to 6.3:1 gear ratio – Helps manage the increased resistance of the larger bait.
- Line: 20-25 lb fluorocarbon – Prevents break-offs while maintaining a stealthy presentation.
How to Retrieve the Magdraft for Maximum Effectiveness
Unlike traditional lures, the Magdraft doesn’t require aggressive jerks or erratic retrieves. Instead, a natural approach yields the best results.
- Slow and Steady Retrieve – Let the swimbait’s built-in action do the work. A slow, consistent retrieve keeps it looking natural.
- Killing the Bait (Pause Technique) – Occasionally pausing the retrieve allows the Magdraft to maintain its upright posture, mimicking a stunned or dying baitfish.
- Bumping Cover – Lightly deflecting the bait off wood, grass, or rocks can trigger reaction strikes from hesitant bass.
- Adjusting Speed Based on Conditions – On colder days, slow it down. When bass are aggressive, a slightly faster retrieve can entice more strikes.
Why the Magdraft Swimbait Belongs In Your Lineup
The Megabass Magdraft swimbait is an elite tool for targeting trophy bass. Its unique combination of lifelike movement, balanced design, and innovative hook system makes it one of the most effective big bass lures on the market. By fishing it in the right locations, mastering a slow and steady retrieve, and using the right gear, you’ll significantly increase your chances of landing monster fish.
Whether fishing pressured lakes or targeting unpressured giants, the Magdraft swimbait is designed to get big bites. Tie one on, find a high-percentage area, and get ready for some explosive strikes!
