Top 5 Must-Have Combos: Catch More Bass with the Salmo 3.5 and Pro-Grade Tackle

When you\'re gearing up for a bass fishing trip, having the right lure and tackle combo can make all the difference. If you\'re looking to buy Salmo 3.5, you\'re already on the right track—this compact crankbait is a proven performer in a variety of fishing conditions. But to really make it shine, it helps to pair it with the right setup.

In this guide, we’ll walk through five top tackle combinations that bring out the best in the Salmo 3.5. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, these combos will help you fish smarter and hook more bass.

Why the Salmo 3.5 Is a Favorite

The Salmo 3.5 Hornet is a go-to lure for many bass anglers—and for good reason. Here’s what makes it effective:

Size: 3.5 cm—perfect for largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Weight: 3.5 to 5 grams, depending on the model.
Depth: Dives 1.5 to 2 meters—great for shallow to mid-depth fishing.
Action: It produces a tight, vibrating wobble that mimics an injured baitfish.
Available in both floating and sinking versions.

With durable finishes and sharp hooks, Salmo lures are built to last—and hook up reliably.

Combo 1: Salmo 3.5 Floating + Medium Spinning Setup

(Shimano Sienna + Daiwa Procyon)

Why it works:
This combo gives you excellent control for fishing just below the surface, especially during early mornings or in shallow areas.

Rod: Daiwa Procyon 6\'6\" Medium Action
Reel: Shimano Sienna 2500
Line: 8 lb monofilament

The floating Salmo 3.5 works great with a fast-retrieve reel and a responsive rod. You can work it around weedy edges or near rocky spots where bass often feed aggressively.

Best for: Early morning fishing in shallow cover or shoreline structures.

Combo 2: Salmo 3.5 Sinking + Baitcaster Setup

(Abu Garcia Revo X + Fenwick HMG)

Why it works:
When you need to get deeper—into brush piles or ledges—a sinking Salmo 3.5 paired with a baitcaster gives you precision and power.

Rod: Fenwick HMG 7\' Medium Heavy Baitcast
Reel: Abu Garcia Revo X
Line: 12–14 lb fluorocarbon

The added weight of the sinking version helps you reach fish holding in deeper water, and the baitcaster improves control for pinpoint casts.

Best for: Fishing structure-rich spots or targeting deeper bass.

Combo 3: Salmo 3.5 Rattlin’ Hornet + Compact Travel Combo

(Okuma Voyager Travel Kit)

Why it works:
If you\'re fishing on the go—road trips, hikes to remote ponds, or even traveling abroad—this compact combo is hard to beat.

Rod: Okuma Voyager 6\' Medium Travel Rod
Reel: Voyager 20-size spinning reel
Line: 6–10 lb braided line

The Rattlin’ Hornet adds noise, which is a bonus in stained water or low-light conditions. The travel kit is easy to pack and still strong enough for decent-sized bass.

Best for: Fishing small lakes, creeks, or anytime you\'re on the move.

Combo 4: Salmo 3.5 Jointed + High-End Spinning Rig

(Shimano Stradic FL + G. Loomis E6X)

Why it works:
This premium combo is designed for serious anglers who want high sensitivity and precision.

Rod: G. Loomis E6X 6\'10\" Medium Fast
Reel: Shimano Stradic FL 2500
Line: 10 lb fluorocarbon

The jointed Salmo 3.5 has an ultra-lifelike swim action. Combined with a rod that lets you feel every bump and twitch, it’s perfect for finesse-style fishing.

Best for: Tough bite conditions or high-pressure lakes where bass are wary.

Combo 5: Salmo 3.5 + Affordable All-Around Kit

(Lew’s Xfinity Spinning Combo)

Why it works:
You don’t need to spend a fortune to fish effectively. This budget-friendly combo still lets you fish the Salmo 3.5 with confidence.

Rod: Lew’s Xfinity 6’6” Medium
Reel: Lew’s 200-size spinning reel
Line: 8 lb monofilament or copolymer

It offers a good balance of sensitivity and castability, ideal for weekend anglers or those just starting out.

Best for: Beginners or anyone fishing casual weekend trips.

Stats That Back It Up

Using crankbaits that mimic real baitfish can boost catch rates by up to 30%.
Over 55% of bass tournament winners in 2023 used lures between 3–4 cm during spring.
Salmo lures consistently rank in the top 10 for catching both largemouth and smallmouth bass.

What to Look for in Quality Bass Fishing Tackle for Sale

When browsing bass fishing tackle for sale, keep these factors in mind:

Rod Action & Power: Go for medium-fast to fast action rods. Medium to medium-heavy power is ideal for crankbaits.
Reel Gear Ratio: Choose 6.2:1 or higher to retrieve your lure quickly and keep it moving naturally.
Line Type: Use 8–12 lb fluorocarbon for low visibility and good sensitivity.
Hook Quality: Look for chemically sharpened treble hooks—they hold fish better and improve hook-up rates.

Don’t just grab the cheapest gear you see. Invest in quality gear that matches how and where you fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes the Salmo 3.5 such a good bass lure?

Its tight wobble, realistic look, and ideal size make it perfect for triggering strikes from aggressive or cautious bass.

2. What type of line works best with the Salmo 3.5?

Fluorocarbon is great for clear water. Use braid if you\'re fishing in thick cover and need more strength.

3. Can I troll with the Salmo 3.5?

Yes, especially the floating version. It works well when trolled at slow to moderate speeds at 1.5 to 2 meters deep.

4. Is the Salmo 3.5 good for beginners?

Absolutely. It’s simple to use—just cast and retrieve. It does most of the work for you.

5. Should I get the floating or sinking version?

Use floating for shallower water and topwater bites. Sinking is better for fishing deeper or around submerged cover.

Final Thoughts

When you buy Salmo 3.5, you\'re investing in one of the most versatile crankbaits on the market. But to unlock its full potential, you’ll want to match it with the right bass fishing tackle for sale. Whether you\'re after portability, power, or premium performance, the combos above are designed to help you fish more effectively—and catch more bass.

Choose the setup that fits your style and budget, and hit the water with confidence. With the right combo, the Salmo 3.5 becomes a true game-changer.