Seems like only yesterday, but it was 25 years ago that the original Culprit Worm was made. It was the first massed-produced two-tone or "shad"-style worm, and is still a mainstay in most anglers' tackleboxes. Now produced in over 65 colors and lengths for all parts of the country (including 4 1/2", 6", 7 1/2", 10" and 12") the Original Culprit's super ribbontail action is still a good match for many fishing situations.

Culprit has retained that innovative spirit, and continues to develop new products. In our opinion, those worthy of a look include:

> Dropshot baits – Dropshot enthusiasts have three new products to choose from: the Culrin Dropshot, Straight Dropshot and Culprit Dropshot worms. All float in a great perpendicular fashion and all are sized perfectly to be rigged on a 1/0 or 2/0 hook. Uniquely shaped tapered bodies make these baits act lifelike even when fished still. Our tests with all of these worms have shown they each have special characteristics that give BassFans choices depending on fish activity, seasonal patterns and depth fished. We particularly liked the Straight Worm as it moves side to side on the retrieve, like an underwater "walking the dog" action.

> Topwater baits – If you love topwater scum and weed fishing, the Culprit Jerk Worm (and older standard) and the Culprit Frog are perfect. The best feature of the Frog is the flat bottom and forward-facing legs that kick when retrieved over holes in the matted vegetation. Heavy enough to cast long distances, the Frog can be rigged Texas-style or with a weedless hook. The Jerk Worm glides well through the water and the buoyancy is perfect for situations with buck brush or vegetation.

> Different looks – Looking for that all-important different look for the fish? Culprit's Tassel Lizard and Tassel Tail Worm will give you that, which is important because, as we all know, at certain times of the year everybody and their uncle is throwing a worm or a lizard. Both Tassel products feature skirt-like tentacles on the tails of the baits, and these tassels increase vibration and visual appeal. Another bait with a slightly different look is the Stinger, which is Culprit's version of the Senko. While many companies have basically copied the Senko, Culprit designed an egg sack about 1 1/2 inches from the top of the bait, and this gives the bait some tail action we haven't seen in other varieties of like baits. The weight and color selection of the Stinger is also different. We especially like the Chili Pepper, Natural and Goby colors.

These and other Culprit baits work, and are available in colors you wish other manufacturers had. Check them out.

For more info, visit your local tackle retailer or click here to go to the Culprit web site.