Last year I got turned on to "Hali's". A Halis has a small (1in - 11/2in) in-line vertical blade, with a small 1 1/2in chain hanging from it to a hook. Here's a pic:
http://www.thornebros.com/winter/tackle/walleye/walleye_nilsmaster.htmlThe idea is the blade creates flash to attract fish in, & then the live-bait on the hook gets 'em. I don't know why I started using, but once I did, these did great for me on Crappies & 'gills.
Late last season, when I'd lost 'em all, I made a cheap imitation which seemed to work just as well. I fastened a small walleye on a blade on a clevis 3in above a single hook, with a tied-bead to keep it there. As I jig, the blade spins. Works great & cheap. I can afford to lose these.
Anyone else tried anything similar?
Good luck,
Paul