Popularity of curly-tailed worms

It all started with the plastic worm and has now mutated into a huge array of specialized offerings. Whose is the best and which one is your favorite? Come share your thoughts and opinions here.
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replica66[]
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Popularity of curly-tailed worms

Post by replica66[] » Thu Jun 14, 2018 12:57 pm

Where did all the curly tail worms go? Why and when did straight tailed worms get so popular? Back in the 1990s the "finesse" style of bass fishing became the hot way to fish for bass here in California. It involved using 4 to 6 lb test monofilament line, an Aberdeen style worm hook rigged Texas style into a small 4" curly tailed plastic worm, and a round split shot crimped on the line about a foot or so above the worm. This would be cast out and retrieved with a slow steady retrieve along the bottom so that the tail of the worm would "swim" looking like a small shad or baitfish. The bend of the hook acted like a keel and stopped the worm from spinning around avoiding line twist. Many western bass fishermen, including myself had great success with this method. I still do.
Although there are numerous makes of small plastic worms that feature a curly tail, most do not have any swimming action with a slow retrieve because the tails are either too short or too stiff. One of the most popular worms for the true original finesse bass fishing was Kalin's 4" Salty Finesse Worm. It had a longer softer tail than other brands, but the body was firm. I don't think these particular worms are made any more. Sure you can fish a straight worm with a split shot, but there is no great swimming action from the bait other than what the angler does with his fishing rod to impart some kind of motion to the bait.

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GOOD YEAR 71
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Re: Popularity of curly-tailed worms

Post by GOOD YEAR 71 » Thu Jun 14, 2018 5:02 pm

You pretty much answered your own question. They don't swim them anymore. Tails are great, I agree, yet offer no benefit to some techniques. Since worming doesn't make sense to many, coupled with method and product options available, one might spend 12-18 months learning and still not have a full grasp. I'd venture swimming is low on the priority list for most.

I loved reading this post btw, brings back memories. All the modern day finesse hype is ancient news around these parts.
PEACE

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