Spring is the one truly sweet time of year for freshwater bass fishing. In the early spring, bass are spawning, so they are located in shallow water near their nesting areas. Shallow water makes it easier to work with a variety of baits and lures, compared with deeper water fishing. While luck always has its way in bass angling, the proper application of strategy, knowledge and tackle will help fill your boat with bass in the spring.
Shallow Waters
Cast into waters 10 feet deep and then drag your lure all the way back to the shoreline. Bass will establish nests in the shallows and then sit there waiting for shallow water food sources to cruise by.
Near Breaks
Breaks are underwater terrains where a shallower area of water transitions into deeper water suddenly. Underwater channels often form these breaks. Use an Army Corps of Engineers map of the lake to identify these channels and other breaks. Bass build nests on the shallow side of the break and then take advantage of quick access to the deeper and cooler waters nearby. Work the breaks with methodical casting.
Covers
Spawning bass like cover, including water grasses and submerged trees. Cast into or by these covers and drag your lure back to the boat. Lunker bass often hang out in submerged tree trunks and other shallow water features.
Tackle
Keep a two or more rod and reel combinations ready, including a spincasting reel and a baitcasting reel. Switch back and forth until you find the presentation to which the bass seems most attracted.
Lures
Try spinner baits, jigs, jig and pork rind combinations, jigs and live minnows, and crank baits for slightly deeper waters near the breaks. Cast topside lures in shallower waters, and heavier crank baits in the depths. Change lures in a methodical manner until you find the winning presentation that gets the bass' attention.
Cast Clock
Pull your boat up to a promising area and start casting at the 9 o'clock position, respective to your ultimate target, such as a clump of downed tree limbs in the water. Cast to the 9 on the clock, then the 10 o'clock position, and so forth until you've reached the 3 o'clock position on your right. If you had no taps or strikes, change lures and work the clock again. If you sense this should be a prime spot, change gear and try again.
Time Of Day
As with all bass fishing expeditions, time of day can be key. Very early morning and dusk are prime bass fishing times. Action may be slower at noon and mid-afternoon.
References
- "The Bass Angler's Almanac: More Than 650 Tips and Tactics"; John Weiss; 2002
- "Roland Martin's 101 Bass-Catching Secrets"; Roland Martin; 2008
- "Fishing Essentials for Dummies"; Peter Kaminsky; 2002
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