Ep. 29: Gary Reyes Returns — Fast-Wind in Action & Weedless Big Baits

Guest: Gary Reyes (Reyes Swimbaits)

Hosts: Daniel Dahlin ([FISH]rx), El Charly, Luke Dean (Bait Slingers / Artemis Charters)

Gary Reyes returns for Episode 29, recorded live on January 30, 2024, to go deeper on the fast-wind technique he introduced in Ep. 8. Daniel ran it the very next morning and had one of his best calico sessions. This episode breaks down exactly why it works — from rod angle to bait size to retrieve speed.

In This Episode

• Fast-wind technique — burn the bait back with the rod tip high; the rising angle near the boat triggers the strike
• 6.25-inch bait development — sized for one-ounce applications with enough resistance to feel the retrieve
• Belly-weighted hooks — custom solution for weedless big bait fishing beyond standard Beast hook weights
• Winter calico pattern — January and February producing consistent weedless big bait fish
• Jerkbait as secondary option — slowing down with pause-based retrieves when fish won’t commit to the burn
• Big fish mindset — targeting fewer but larger fish with bigger, less common presentations

How the Fast-Wind Technique Works

The key to the fast-wind technique is not just speed — it’s the finish. Burning the bait keeps it moving aggressively, but lifting the rod tip toward the end of the retrieve changes the bait’s path. Instead of staying level, the bait rises, mimicking a baitfish trying to escape.

That change in direction is what triggers the bite. Fish often follow the bait on the retrieve, but commit when it starts to “get away.” Without the rod tip adjustment, it’s just a fast retrieve. With it, you create a closing moment that forces the strike.

This technique is especially effective for calico bass holding tight to structure. The calico bass guide and structure fishing guide both expand on how fish position and why that final movement triggers bites.

Why Bigger Baits Work in Winter

Gary’s winter pattern focuses on weedless big baits. During colder months, fish are less active but more predictable. A larger bait fished through the right zone stands out enough to trigger a reaction even when fish aren’t actively feeding.

This aligns with a broader pattern in SoCal fishing — fewer bites, but higher-quality fish when you commit to a larger presentation. It’s a trade-off that favors anglers targeting size over numbers.

Why This Episode Matters

This episode matters because it takes a proven technique and explains exactly why it works. It’s not just a tip — it’s a repeatable approach built on how fish react to movement.

For SoCal anglers, the takeaway is simple: small changes in presentation can create big differences in results. Speed gets attention, but direction change closes the deal.

Watch the full episode on the Time On The Water YouTube channel. New episodes every Tuesday at 6 PM.