Tube
Soft Plastic — tube
The tube is a hollow soft plastic with a tentacled skirt that spirals as it falls. On an internal jighead it perfectly mimics a fleeing crawfish, making it one of the best baits for smallmouth and clear, rocky Central Texas lakes.
Why: A spiraling craw imitator for rock.
Evidence: Verified knowledge from Bryan Cotter, 26+ years guiding all 16 Central Texas lakes.
Related: Finesse Fishing · Drop Shot · All bass lures
Verified Answered by Bryan Cotter, Texas Hawgs guide · Updated Jul 12, 2026
Why it works
The gliding, spiraling fall and craw-like profile trigger rock-oriented bass and smallmouth.
Brands that make this style: Strike King Coffee Tube, Gary Yamamoto Tube, Dry Creek Tube
As an Amazon Associate, Texas Hawgs earns from qualifying purchases.
Tube at a glance
- Family
- Soft Plastic
- Sizes
- 3 in, 4 in
- Weights
- 1/8-3/8 oz internal head
- Water temp
- 45-80°F
- Skill level
- ●●●○○
- Bryan's confidence
- ●●●●○
Catches: Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Guadalupe Bass, Spotted Bass
When to throw it
Best seasons: Winter, Spring, Fall
Best conditions: Post-Frontal / Bluebird, Water Clarity
Where to throw it
Depth: 3-25 ft; cover: Rock, Open; structure: Points, Bluffs, Rock, Riprap.
How to fish it
Rig it with: Finesse Fishing, Drop Shot, Shaky Head.
Retrieve: Let it spiral to the bottom, then drag and hop it around rock with light shakes.
Color selection
By water clarity — Clear: green pumpkin, smoke · Stained: black-blue
By forage — Craw: green pumpkin, brown
Common mistakes
- Too heavy a head, killing the spiral
- Fishing it too fast
- Not letting it fall on slack line
Pro tips
- An internal head gives the signature spiral
- A killer smallmouth bait on Belton and Stillhouse
Keep exploring
All bass lures · Finesse Fishing · All techniques · Central Texas bass fishing guide
Want to catch 'em on a Tube? All tackle is provided on a guided trip. See rates and book or call 512-762-0190.