Using fingers and picking

[oysteivi]

I think that even if you're equally skilled with fingers and a pick, some lines will still be easier or feel more natural with one or the other. And there's the difference in sound.

I find that I need to shorten my strap to play comfortably with a pick, so for me it's all fingers all the time.

 

[bluesdogblues]

I think that even if you're equally skilled with fingers and a pick, some lines will still be easier or feel more natural with one or the other. And there's the difference in sound.

I find that I need to shorten my strap to play comfortably with a pick, so for me it's all fingers all the time.

Good point..and I also shorten my strap since I learn to play with pick, although actually it doesn't have to be a problem either (playing with pick with long strap), maybe just a personal preference.

Anyway, I also find it's benefit to 'adapt'; i.e. adapt bass lines that are easier and feel more natural with finger playing, to be play (easy and feel natural) with pick and vice versa. Doesn't have to have the exact same result. Adapt is the word here.
Actually not just adapt 'finger playing bass lines' to 'pick bass playing' them,..but even adapt other instruments than bass' lines into 'bass lines' also. i.e; Sax lines into bass lines.
IMHO it will only enrich someone's bass playing and musical ability at the same time.

 

[stratovani]

I think a lot depends on what type of song you are playing. Some songs sound better with a pick and others will sound better with fingers. Then there is slapping which is done with the thumb. Try to incorporate all methods for your playing.

You beat me to it. I was just about to say that it all depends on what the song requires. For example, when we play Tom Petty's Breakdown, a darker, softer sound is best, so I play with my fingers close to the neck, whereas for Runnin' Down A Dream a faster, brighter sound is needed, so I play it with a pick.

 

[mellowinman]

Some bassists who use both use a pick to make up for their lack of skill in the area of speed finger-picking. Personally, I think a bassist who plays with fingers should just buckle down and practise more instead of taking the easy way out. How I know? I play death metal and some black metal all with fingers and can keep in time with the guitars. It's just a matter of practice. I willy always prefer the more natural tones of finger picking to using an actual pick.

I use a pick to get a picked sound when it is needed.