TYPE: Overhead 2-wing blade This standard buzzbait is a good all-around performer. As it's retrieved, it will drift to the left or right, depending on which way the blade is cupped. Keep it barely plopping on the surface.

TIP: Use the drift to swing the buzzbait under the edges of docks.

EXAMPLE: Lunker Lure Buzzbait

TYPE: Overhead 2-wing blade with clacker blade A clacker-style buzzbait makes more of a commotion, but due to the added resistance, you can't retrieve it as slowly, making it a poor choice for cold water.

TIP: Use it when the water heats up, in a surface chop, and when you're fishing for aggressive bass.

EXAMPLE: Booyah Buzz

TYPE: In-line bucktail 2-wing An in-line buzzer, the most weedless variation, is ideal for fishing over matted vegetation.

TIP: You must retrieve it faster than overhead buzzbaits to keep it on the surface, so fish it in the summer and early fall when bass are most active.

EXAMPLE: Uncle Buck's Bucktail Skirt Buzzer

TYPE: Overhead 3-wing blade This style runs straight and true and lets you retrieve more slowly. It also generates a softer sputtering sound. Reach for it in the early season.

TIP: It's the best choice for cold or smooth water and lure-shy bass.

EXAMPLE: Strike King Tri-Wing

TYPE: Side-by-side, counter-rotating 2-wing blades This configuration also runs true, allowing extremely slow retrieves that appeal to coldwater and lure-shy bass. Don't set the hook until you feel the fish.

TIP: With a fast retrieve, the two blades froth the water and tempt active bass.

EXAMPLE: Skeet's Double Buzz