Whether a seasoned angler or in the throes of beginner fishing, it’s never too early to learn to fish spring bass. When it comes to this unexpectedly challenging species, understanding seasonal highs and lows is the key to success. Remember, bass fishing in the spring is similar to going after them in the summer!
Here are a few foolproof tips to guarantee a memorable catch and make the most of springtime bass angling.
Equip Yourself with the Right Lure & Bait
Let’s get one thing straight—spring weather is unpredictable. Thus, a tackle variety is necessary to keep up with ever-changing conditions. Basically, bring a little bit of everything.
Temperatures remain low in the early spring, suspending jerk baits are a good choice for lethargic bass. These imitation baitfish appear to look chilled from the winter cold and do an excellent job attracting slow-moving spring bass.
As temperatures become relatively warmer, jig baits around shallow docks and rocky environments will produce bites. During this time, spring bass grow a hearty appetite for bigger prey such as crawfish and grubs.
Think About Water Temperature
Spring bass is a crowd favorite for a reason—they are pleasantly predictable and creatures of habit. Their primal instincts are greatly influenced by water temperature, which is something anglers want to pay attention to in the spring.
Most largemouth bass tend to spawn in water temperatures between 55 and 60 degrees. The bass will start to actively feed when water temperatures are between 48-55 degrees.
As a rule of thumb, the warmer the weather, the shallower the fish. If travel in the early spring, take advantage of sluggish bass recovering from harsher weather.
Pay Attention to Your Environment
No fishing hotspot is immune to the occasional wrath of nature. Where spring bass are congregating, so are hungry, onlooking predators. Look for birds feeding on bait fish, usually bass are close by. Most anglers bring out their jerk baits and crankbaits in this situation.
Similarly, use other natural elements, such as the wind, as an advantage. When fishing in a clear lake, gentle gusts of wind will improve casting and bring elusive bass up to the surface.
Beyond water temperature, pay attention to color, depth, and bottom conditions. Take note where spring bass are congregating based on these characteristics. This may produce a reliable pattern throughout the lake.
Know the Best Way to Spot Bass in the Springtime
Going back to basics will help locate bass in the springtime. During the pre-spawn season, bass will typically migrate from wintering areas to shallow flats for laying their eggs. Bass will usually follow a predictable migration pattern whether in a lake, pond, river, or creek. Always map out these routes if planning to return to a specific angling location.
After the winter season, bass are eager to bite well-presented baits. Lipless crankbaits, plastic worms, and soft plastic tubes are always good options for pre-spawn bass during this time
Take a Trip to the Right Area
There is no shortage of hotspots when it comes to early spring bass fishing. In warmer southern states, bass will begin to migrate in March, while cooler, northern regions may be mid-to-late April or later.
Some prime locations to consider:
- Lake Fork, Texas: Famous for its season-long availability of bass, Lake Fork is extremely popular for spring bass fishing.
- California Delta: Coastal California is a goldmine for any bass enthusiast. This highly productive region will spoil bass anglers.
- Lake Okeechobee, Florida: Veteran anglers love to frequent this lake. The habitat makes for ideal bass breeding grounds.
The Bottom (Fishing) Line
Spring bass fishing is popular among all types of anglers for a reason—they’re available coast-to-coast.
New bass anglers should include these helpful tips in their fishing arsenal!
