Best Forward-Facing Sonar Baits, Gear & Tackle for Bass Fishing
It’s no secret that Forward-facing sonar (FFS) has completely changed the way we approach bass fishing. This real-time imaging allows you to see fish and their reactions to your bait, making lure selection, presentation, and adjustments more critical than ever. To maximize the effectiveness of FFS, you need the right baits, rods, reels, line, and accessories.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best baits for FFS fishing, the ideal gear setups, and additional tools to give you an edge on the water.
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Best Baits for Forward-Facing Sonar
Jighead Minnows – Most Versatile FFS Bait
Why It Works: Perfect for hovering over fish and triggering reaction bites. Best Presentation: Vertical jigging or slow swimming just above the fish.
Jerkbaits – Best for Triggering Suspended Bass
Why It Works: Darting action mimics fleeing baitfish, triggering reaction strikes. Best Presentation: Short twitch + pause lets the bait suspend in front of fish.
Dropshot Rigs – Best for Precision Targeting
Why It Works: Allows you to hold the bait in the zone and finesse stubborn fish. Best Presentation: Shake the bait subtly while keeping it above the fish’s head.
Neko Rigs – Best for Finesse Applications
Why It Works: Perfect for hovering over fish and triggering reaction bites.
Best Presentation: Vertical jigging or slow swimming just above the fish.
Spoons – Best for Aggressive Vertical Jigging
Why It Works: Erratic darting action mimics fleeing baitfish, triggering reaction strikes.
Best Presentation: Use short, aggressive twitches with pauses to let the bait suspend in front of fish.
Swimbaits & Glidebaits – Best for Big BASSIN’
Why It Works: Larger profile baits trigger bites from BIG bass hunting big prey.
Best Presentation: Slow, steady retrieve with occasional pauses or twitches to mimic an injured or fleeing baitfish.
Best Gear Setup for Forward-Facing Sonar Fishing
Rods for Forward Facing Sonar
Selecting the right rod for FFS ensures precise control and optimal bait presentation. From throwing finesse baits like the dropshot, neko rig and jighead minnow to heavier applications for swimbaits, spoons and reaction style baits (crankbaits and jerkbaits), there’s an optimal rod for FFS.
Reels for Forward Facing Sonar
Smooth casting and precise drag control are essential for fishing with forward facing sonar. From spinning reels capable of casting a mile to casting rods with made for casting light baits and larger reels with strong drag systems, our recommendations comes from direct, on the water usage.
Line for Forward Facing Sonar
Using the right line helps with sensitivity, stealth and bait control while utilizing FFS. Whether using fluorocarbon for added stealth and sensitivity to a traditional light braid and fluorocarbon leader, these are our most commonly used lines while fishing with FFS.
Additional Accessories to Improve Your FFS Fishing
Bait Scent & Attractants
It’s no secret you can’t force fish to bite your bait, but we can do everything we can to increase our percentages. Adding scent can trigger more bites from hesitant fish.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reducing glare improves visibility for tracking fish movements, both on screen and in the open water. The right pair of polarized sunglasses can make all the difference.
FFS Electronics
You can have all the gear in the world, but without the right FFS electronics setup, you’re casting into the wind. Get your setup right and optimize your gear selection.
Final Thoughts on FFS Baits, Gear and Tackle
Having the right baits and gear for bass fishing with forward-facing is crucial for success. Whether you’re fishing with jighead minnows, jerkbaits, dropshot rigs, or glidebaits, pairing them with the correct rod, reel, and line setup will help you capitalize on what you see on your screen.
With high-quality fluorocarbon line, a properly tuned FFS unit, and a well-organized tackle system, you’ll be set up for success.
Looking to upgrade your forward-facing sonar setup? Check out our top gear recommendations here: OUR TOP PICKS FOR FFS.
Kyle M.
Bass Fisherman / Tournament Angler
The Kurrent 