Under $6 is hard, well I have had good luck using 3/4-1oz bass jigs with a 5-9" plastic trailer like a twister, sally shad or a curly tail. Rapala original size 13 in rainbow or brown color scheme, or the jointed Rapala partner size 13. Early season is the only time I use normal sized baits. As summer temperatures rise then it is time to break out the 6-10" baits and go deep. Don't be afraid to try different, bright colors. Hope that helps