White Bass Fishing Tips For Bait

White bass are found in large rivers and lakes throughout much of the United States. Similar in appearance to their larger cousin, the striped bass, they have a stout body and silvery color with unbroken stripes running from head to tail. A compressed head and high crest lead to a spiny, rayed dorsal fin. Unlike stripers, they rarely reach 5 lbs. White bass are often caught in large numbers on both natural and artificial baits.

Crustaceans

MyFWC.com recommends crustaceans for white bass, such as crayfish or grass shrimp. Try working these live on a bottom rig with an egg sinker above a swivel on the main line and a 2- to 3-foot leader with a baited No. 4 hook.

Jigs

White bass also respond to jig heads, usually in the 1/4 to 1/2 oz. weight range, with a soft plastic on the hook. Colors that work include chartreuse, white or pearl, says Bass Pro Shops. Target deep holes with a cast and allow the jig to drop before retrieving by bouncing the lure across the bottom. For drop offs, ledges and other deeper waters, work the jig up and down off the bottom.

Nightcrawlers

The Take Me Fishing website recommends also trying nightcrawlers for white bass. Work these large earthworms on a medium hook with a float and split shot. Set the depth of the rig so the nightcrawler suspends in mid-water.

Bait Fish

During winter months, white bass will hit bait fish, according to Bass Pro Shops. Small shad and minnows are particularly effective. Work this bait with a bottom rig of a weight on the end of your main line with a dropper leader a foot or two above the sinker. This will get your bait to the bottom in deeper waters where white bass hold during cold weather. You can also fish bait fish under a bobber or float with a small split shot on the line to keep the fish down in the water. Hook the fish through the back behind the dorsal fin.

Jigging Spoons

Jigging spoons can also produce strikes from white bass, especially in cold weather. Tie on a jigging spoon to the end of your line and send it straight down to waiting bass. Work this artificial bait up and down in the water to attract fish in the area. Expect most strikes to occur when the spoon is falling.