For shallow water or when fishing in heavy cover, lighter weights (1/8 to 1/4 ounce) can be effective as they allow for a more natural fall and less disturbance. On the other hand, if you're fishing in deeper water or in windy conditions, heavier weights (3/8 to 1 ounce) will help you maintain contact with the bottom and penetrate cover more effectively.
A good rule of thumb is to match your weight to the thickness of the cover and the depth of the water. For example, if you're flipping into thick lily pads or submerged vegetation, a 1/2 ounce weight might be perfect. In contrast, if you're working a clear, open area, you might opt for a lighter 1/4 ounce weight to allow the bait to fall more slowly.
Experimenting with different weights can also help you determine what the fish are responding to on a given day. Remember, the goal is to keep your bait near the bottom where the fish are feeding, so adjust accordingly based on your specific fishing conditions.
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