The Best Swimbaits On The Market (The Bilge Podcast)

Chris Zaldain and Trait Zaldain sit down with Steve Kennedy on the shores of Lake Fork on this week's Bilge Podcast presented by ​⁠‪@battlebornbatteries‬. Steve reviews his entire swimbait collection in a must watch Bilge for any big bait fisherman.
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[@deanlyons703]

Such a humble man. True class act. I bet he can really nerd out but he’s not going to give the real juice.

[@davidharris4030]

I’ve always loved Steve’s happy go lucky attitude. I am 60 years old and trust me I’ve been watching him for ever. I always thought it was cool that he never stop using those older green Curado’s. I have about 5 of the older ones but very rarely use them.

[@Zaldaingerous]

Yes, he’s a special dude!!

[@johnm2617]

IM 60 Also followed steve forever! When fishing was real ! Right or left hand curodo's < I use all left * Never liked switching hands mid air

[@secretbassrigs]

Well, what's keeping ya? At least one! Lol

[@secretbassrigs]

​​@@johnm2617 I raised myself on a Shimano Quickfire II spinning reel. I know exactly what you mean. Regarding the Quickfire trigger configuration, it only took a week or two to figure out I had to hold onto the handle with my palm, when setting the hook, so the rotor wouldn't add slack when swinging backwards to its resting position.

[@davidharris4030]

@@johnm2617 All mine are left handed!

[@mtaylor516]

One of the best pods you’ve done! No drama, just hardcore anglers talking fishing. Steve has such a great personality, without trying to be a certain way for the interview. This one’s going to cost me some money. Haha

[@FranklinHicks-qs4gs]

Just 2 hard-core anglers talking giahing while trying to ignore and obnoxious woman

[@peterlong9629]

Like a kid showing off his marble collection! Love his passion for the big baits! Surprised at many of the swimbaits he has! Steve is one of us! 👍🏼

[@Zaldaingerous]

Soooo many

[@secretbassrigs]

​​​​@@ZaldaingerousChris, you're from California. Ever fish the (Little Anthony) LA SLIDER? It came out in 2007.

[@secretbassrigs]

In Southern California during the late 80's and early 90's, because big soft plastic Swimbaits for Largemouth Bass didn't exist yet, we used to throw custom rigged (shad head rigged w/stingers) 9" saltwater swimbaits, originally meant for "surface fishing" the Channel Islands. The actions on those things were so minimal compared to today's soft plastic Swimbaits. They were ugly, but the Bass that got spoiled on stocked trout didn't know any better back then. They don't work today lol

[@Zaldaingerous]

@@secretbassrigsthe original LA Slider was the main inspiration for my Loaded swimbait 😉

[@secretbassrigs]

@@Zaldaingerous right on bro! Thanks for the reply. I noticed a resemblance of the slider in the mag also. The Loaded is a sweet line through, though. Definitely one of a kind and well thought out. The hook sits perfectly in its place. Love it! Tight Lines and best wishes, sir!

[@nicholasporter4682]

Steve Kennedy is one of my favorites. One of the good ones for sure. Protect him at all times. Lol

[@Zaldaingerous]

At all costs!!!

[@MrScott7040]

I’m a true fan of Steve , much respect .

[@NCshooter1213]

I have always loved steve kennedy. That tourney at Clear Lake got me hooked. I love his stance on sponsors also. I remember him saying one time that he had won enough money, he didn't need a bunch of sponsors. For a "regular" guy like myself, that was awesome to hear. Awesome pod.

[@Zaldaingerous]

Same here!!

[@fishingkid8467]

Every time I think a previous podcast can’t be topped you guys come through with another one. Great job! I could listen to SK’s stories all day!

[@Zaldaingerous]

Thanks for listening

[@Brettsgroeteke]

Thanks for the shout out Zaldain’s! Appreciate you both!

[@Zaldaingerous]

MY GUY!!!!!!

[@Mjones8383]

Steve has always been 1 of my favorite fishermen, a true man that has done it his way and never let corruption of corporations to stain him. War Eagle

[@Zaldaingerous]

Steve definitely does life his way. Have to respect that

[@Mjones8383]

​@@Zaldaingerous Damn right! I'd probably go to war with guys like yall

[@cypressranger2567]

This is probably my favorite Bilge so far... Steve is one of my favorites

[@Zaldaingerous]

Mine too!!!!

[@CameronMoore-mj2gk]

I was a marshall in his boat first day at Champlain. He had one rod on the deck with a swimbait. He finished in the top ten in that tournament! He had those green Curados! Awesome fisherman! what a gentleman

[@JohnnyJenkins]

As a big bait enthusiasist & collector, let me tell you this might have been the best most anticipated podcast I ever seen. Steve delivered the goods. Just seeing collections could give me a chub.

[@keithcook8173]

Steve is a national treasure and should be protected at all costs!

[@swimbaitonaprairie9359]

Steve is a National Treasure!

[@BartlettOutfitters]

Steve is one of my favorites on the Elites! Willing to talk to anyone and always is such a great mood. Super knowledgeable and a great asset to the industry. Great pod!

[@josedz589]

Steve is such a chill guy. Shout out Steve.

[@yrdGBA]

Probably My Favorite Guest that you have had Guys!!!! So much knowledge about swimbaits. Much Love Yall

[@PoFolks_Capital]

I love seeing guys geek out like a kid going through a toy box.

[@Danyang1]

Didn’t even watch it yet but I already know it’s going to be good. Giving a thumbs up already lol

[@Zaldaingerous]

Steve’s the man

[@LoteDiggity]

Absolute Legends! Nothing else on earth like solving the swimbait puzzle through trial and error

[@badbrad936]

Such a likeable guy.. Who doesn't love some Steve Kennedy!!

[@johncure8268]

Gotta love Steve..been watching him for many years and love his style.👍

[@F1Hopeful]

One of the best bass fishing videos I’ve ever seen. Mr. Kennedy is pure class. Straight as an arrow and knowledgeable to the moon. Keep these going !!! And thanks!!!

[@Zaldaingerous]

Thank you hopeful!!

[@F1Hopeful]

@@Zaldaingerous the F1 driving dream was many years ago. I now bass fish, primarily salt water here in SoCal but some fw as well. I really love bass fishing. It’s a truly amazing and all-so-humbling sport. I have one son living in Ft. Worth. I’ll make my way down your way one day and tighten a line or two. Our rod sponsor, Dobyns is close by in Sulphur Springs. Texas bass is on my bucket list. Best of luck this season !!!!! And keep up these great shows!!!!

[@jeffwortham7768]

Thanks Trait

[@lipsnatcher7483]

Always been a fan of Steve Kennedy, has always came across as being a great guy and squared away.

[@Zaldaingerous]

Steve is like a kid fishing for the first time, every time

[@megabitebaits37]

It’s a blessing to see how fired up he gets when talking about these baits. I love it!!

[@jrl3021]

Great show guys!! Steve is just the best guy! Honest! Funny! Straight shooter and success doing things his way!! Again, thanks!!🎉

[@user-qk3gx4sy5n]

Steve giving the sneaky pete the love it deserves. Love to see it!

[@djrener1]

One of the best yet! Steve Kenedy is truly salt of the earth

[@Zaldaingerous]

This!

[@davidsedlacek3855]

Great show!! So many parts of Steve's talk could be dove into another show in its self... thank you for your time.

[@Zaldaingerous]

Glad you enjoyed it! I could go hours with Steve

[@Roboworm99]

Love Steve Kennedy he’s such a likable guy and personality

[@J-remyM]

Steve is such a genuine person I’ve always admired him and his approach to tournament fishing. Him and John Cox are my favorite anglers that I’d love to fish with some day

[@bencherry2175]

Great episode! Love big swimbaits

[@CrabCakeS-jt4mn]

thanks Trait just ordered both !!

[@youremomsvilleplayzmc9528]

Nice show, love Kennedy!

[@dustingrant2062]

I've been a steve fan since clear lake I enjoy going back an watching him I enjoy when he's on live ..this maybe my favorite episode thanks for all you do for our great sport

[@Zaldaingerous]

Same here!

[@secretbassrigs]

Ive been waiting for a swimbait episode on the Bilge for a long time. It was totally worth it!

[@Zaldaingerous]

Thanks secret!!

[@santecooper]

Awesome show. Y'all nailed it.

[@Phoenix-nl2ut]

Steve is the man.

[@Zaldaingerous]

🫡

[@chrisfoley3320]

This was an amazing show, your wife ask the best questions. You guys are amazing please keep them coming.

[@gambit_fishing1013]

Steve is such a cool dude!

[@hammonds82]

Wow what a boat load of information great show he is a good interview

[@davidcahan2978]

Really enjoyed Steve’s swimbait episode. An awesome dude!

[@kevinatwell9781]

great episode, I'm addicted to big glides! thank goodness I'm not a tournament fisher, so I can really enjoy them. Also, Steve's shirt is awesome! A lot of content to absorb, I'll watch this more than once, thanks!

[@carytoms9500]

Steve has bee; one of my favorite layer back. Bassmaster s. Thanks for having him on.

[@benjaminhurmx]

I really enjoyed this one .

[@Zaldaingerous]

Glad you enjoyed it Ben!

[@kurtpotter6994]

Had a chance to sit by steve and his wife at the Fork weigh in on Sunday, awesome guy. He was jacked up ready to get out there after the 3pm deadline. He got me so fired up i looked at my wife and asked if she wanted to go and we left before the weight in started to go fish.

[@Zaldaingerous]

Hahaha sounds right

[@GBass011]

Love Kennedy....so down to Earth.

[@nolanmorton5401]

Great episode.

[@nathantaylor3618]

How great is Steve Kennedy!? Love this guy!

[@Zaldaingerous]

The best.

[@hiteikan0912]

Nothing better then getting off work to see a new one uploaded. Thanks fam ❤

[@chrisgrantfishing1409]

Steve is awesome, big fan! Great show.

[@koreyhall7346]

Dropping some knowledge on bass life and lake cycles, I love it !

[@Zaldaingerous]

He’s on top of it!!!

[@chrissparks6380]

Truth and not opinion from someone is very refreshing. Seems like a great dude.

[@ryanstarzenski3072]

Dude I cannot even tell u how excited i get when a new bilge comes out. Freekin Love it!

[@Zaldaingerous]

🙏🙏🙏

[@mike_powers_fishing1729]

great episode!!! loved this one!!! Hard to beat the drawing power of a Hinkle!!!!

[@jeffporter100]

You’ve done some great ones, but this episode is my favorite so far!! 🔥

[@stevenjohnson9855]

Another awesome show and Steve is always full of information and entertaining

[@Zaldaingerous]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@SeeLifeBro]

I still have a yellow BASS hat signed by KVD, Skeet, and Denny Brauer from that Elite Series event at Clear Lake. It was so epic to see those fish coming in back then.

[@zacheryboggs9700]

I was a little surprised by Mr Kennedys take on FFS. I assumed he would be more old school. He’s a very intelligent dude. I’ve always been a huge fan.

[@hookfynn82]

hands down one of the podcast guests ive been waiting for! also, my buddy and i followed him around during that derby after his 30 sack. Though he did break the 4 day record; if the "hooking a fish outside the mouth" rule hadn't been a rule. he would have easily set a 4 day total weight record and single day weight record that WOULD NEVER be broken. i truly believe it. the fish he was throwing back... just mental.

[@Zaldaingerous]

That had to be an experience to watch in person!!

[@nicholasporter4682]

Love trait! She gets the deets!

[@shanegreen518]

Trait leading the way and Steve bringing the heat. 😂 Chris follows with some juice as well. Lol. Great job Zaldains and Steve Kennedy, another awesome show❤❤

[@Zaldaingerous]

Thank you Shane!!

[@johnnyvermin6305]

Great podcast. Steve is always cool to watch and listen to

[@Zaldaingerous]

We agree!

[@prestonchrisman7382]

Steve was spot on with the mortality rates of bass populations. Great stuff!!

[@mattjohnson1333]

Your guy’s channel is a fav!!!

[@Zaldaingerous]

Thank you Matt!!!

[@JacksonRoumbanisFishing]

The best podcast I’ve seen! Going to have to take a couple of my dads xps when he isn’t looking 😂

[@tbone5911]

Love Steve K

[@michaelsmith8959]

Love The Bilge Podcast, seldom have the time to watch in one shot, but made the time for this one. Got my first taste of swims on larger sassy shad, addiction came with the 3:16 Mission Fish in 2002!! Keep up the good work

[@brandendavis3157]

Listening to stories like these get me through a long work week lol Love this podcast!

[@Zaldaingerous]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@jcfishingwrld]

Steve Kennedy is a huge inspiration! He never gave in to the corporate greed of bass fishing and still made an amazing career for himself.

[@aarons6931]

Glad to see you got the lighting dialed in

[@Zaldaingerous]

Well, trait asks us to tilt our hats a little up. Same lighting 😆

[@aarons6931]

@@Zaldaingerous what would u do with out her? Better put two rings on that one

[@janbatallan]

Steve’s a hammer 🔨

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... Awesome podcast ... Interesting where swimbaits have gone ...Started throwing them on a fun trip to Ca. in early 2000's ,, amazing what some anglers can do with them ... and what they've done ..

[@Orvialb]

Very interesting about the life cycle of bass. Steve is great as you are.

[@keithpinkerton2933]

Just purchased my first loaded and threw it last couple outings. Did my best yesterday 3 of the 5 i counted in my 20 lb bag was from the loaded. Had not been to that lake in a long while and had a good day. Love the Bilge

[@Zaldaingerous]

Niiiiice 💪🏽

[@byronhendrixfishing8393]

Legend

[@Zaldaingerous]

Absolutely

[@reelfunnyfishing651]

Great episode! The bgc 7” striper series has swiveling hook hangers. I love that bait, I just picked up the 9”.

[@Phoenix-nl2ut]

My favorite angler

[@Zaldaingerous]

Thanks phoenix!

[@danielkinn782]

I was on CL during that tourney on my kickboat. I was fishing and putting around State park. That was so much fun camping with the bros, hanging with the pros. Man that was such a good time in fishing. Steve throwing hudds on a flipping stick wil always be a memory for me. Incredible

[@Zaldaingerous]

Same!!!! The water was clear and the fish were killing everything in sight!!!

[@danielkinn782]

@Zaldaingerous I was with a few Kickboaters that weekend. When are you going to talk about kickboats and float tubes. It's a great way for guys to fish with out spending the huge money on a boat. Cmon Chris....that's your roots. You and Skeet both

[@steveeldred6362]

God stuff. I’m a Fork guy and the OG paperweight is by far my favorite glide to throw out here.

[@adamkuehnlein7838]

@zaldaingerous I immediately went to bass pro and got the XPs comeback shad with the blue strip (threadfin) color! The bilge is the best pod cast around!

[@chuckstillwell9549]

Love Steve

[@Zaldaingerous]

So do we!

[@jamesadams1357]

Excellent show with one of my all time favorites. The one and only Steven K. Hes told that story before about his job in college. I used to believe it absolutely but not so sure with onslaught of FFW. I do believe we don't keep enough bass these days though to eat. My dad never met one tonsmall to fry lol and we use to argue over him keeping them. Cant stand FFS but its probably here until they make it obsolete with better stuff. Chris you're show getting better and better man . God bless

[@bcm1892]

Steve is one of my all time favorites. I would love to pick brain about shoal bass fishing and the time he spent working for Ga DNR.

[@Zaldaingerous]

Same here!

[@chadwoodward2402]

Nomad large bait wraps with awesome. I can hold a pile of belts in one wrap. They don't beat up the tails and they don't move around scratching up the paint. I was running large hard boxes with cut out to the shape of the baits. It worked great but takes up so much space.

[@bobbyswain7049]

Love me some SK.......hes one of the original OGs......hammer time

[@Zaldaingerous]

Triple OG!!!

[@JohnKoons]

Chris tell Steve Kennedy about using braid in replacing the split rings. No more mechanical problems with slit rings on Swim baits or any crank / treble hooked bait.

[@deanmullett3683]

For the love of bass fishing!!

[@Zaldaingerous]

You know it!

[@TexasAirGunner]

Very cool show. I was a Marshall for Steve day 1 on lake fork this year. Very nice guy. Had fun...

[@Zaldaingerous]

I wish the swimbait bite was better last week!

[@TexasAirGunner]

@@Zaldaingerous it's carl. Lol

[@korycolorado]

Life is like a box of swimbaits...you never know which one is gonna get bit!

[@Zaldaingerous]

Hahahaha fitting

[@korycolorado]

@@Zaldaingerous great show, now I gotta throw something big next time out!

[@jrl3021]

Hope ya schedule him soon. He is so smart. Great man! He was great on Bass After Dark

[@johnnysaechao6218]

Steve is awesome cool collective guy

[@aarons6931]

That clear lake tourney was so much fun to watch, good old days

[@Zaldaingerous]

Yes it was!

[@aarons6931]

@@Zaldaingerous wish I could go back In time and relive the magic of swimbaits before the popularity. There's still one lake in NY pre spawn its lights out on swimbaits if u ever need to shoot a show lol it's been 60s all winter in NY for the most part I'm going after em tomorrow.

[@davidblake5199]

Chris Lake Jocasse is in South Carolina north of Clemson university Beautiful mountains camping but not so much for fishing.. I scuba dive there @ 30 feet on the mountain cliff and there was a Volkswagen at the bottom with some bass in there. Lol. Great show as always Dave from Lanier

[@chasecrawfordfishing2699]

Clutch swim baits sells the foam lined boxes! I just got 6 of them! Super thin, water proof and foam on both sides!

[@brandondavis7368]

I have one of those XPS swimbaits and it’s covered in dust to this day.

[@chadwoodward2402]

Frogs 250 put a split ring and treble hook on the nose ring under the line tie split ring. You won't miss the head shot bites. Using two split rings on the bottom hook hangers gives you more rotation and pull fewer hooks. I just weigh my factory rings and hooks first then adjust my upgrades to match the factory weight as close as possible. Works awesome!

[@morganvanschuyver]

Hey Steve that trick shad has a tuning chamber. Pull that pin and you can see that hole in the bait, that's to add lead to get it to sink faster. If you don't wanna do that, use wire and wrap it around on the front hook. 👍

[@Zaldaingerous]

Good to know

[@richardblake4777]

Sure wish you would have let Steve talk without interrupting constantly. You would learn more from one of the nicest guys anywhere.

[@williambigsby4031]

The 86bait DOOMRIDER is 🔥 🔥

[@Zaldaingerous]

I need to sample these!!

[@williambigsby4031]

@Zaldaingerous can you recommend a hinkle shad designer iam willing to try them out and add to the arsenal. Also, keep up the great content

[@xmarkedx]

The only Hinkle Shad is the Hinkle Shad, no other designers. You would be best to buy one used from 3rd party and even that you will have a tough time

[@xmarkedx]

I second this, Doomrider and chad shad have been my 2 most successful glides and I'm in midwest lol