Followers of this report acknowledge my go-to winter bait is the Silver Buddy. The lure has been around for decades and there aren’t really any reliable knock offs. In the past few years, only the half-ounce silver bait has been on the market. That’s fine with me as this version is the most versatile. Well, reports on my single bait preference reached lure maker, Buddy Banks. Buddy called to inform me of other versions he has reintroduced into the lure marketplace. The popular ¼-ounce is perfect for very tough conditions or expanding species targets, including Crappie. The ¾-ounce provides a bigger target and does well in warmer conditions. Buddy also revealed a 1-ounce version for bigger fish! Musky and some saltwater species will fall prey to this heavy metal vibrating lure. Just as significant are the color options. The stainless steel version has been a mainstay, but nickel and gold plated baits are back. Availability is still limited but the website is the best place to start, silverbuddy.com.

Captain Steve Chaconas gives the most in-depth reports you will find on the World-Wide Web. To follow him or to catch his latest Potomac fishing report, click:  http://www.nationalbass.com/