Locating the Best Bass Fishing Areas

What is it in bass fishing that everybody is driven on to engage on such an activity? People get fond of bass fishing that is why every trend that they hear about really catches their interests and as much as possible get into it.

“Where are the what…? Where are the bass!” How many of the anglers (tournament and recreational) go to a body of water you’ve never fished before, drop the boat in the water, then, ask this question to yourself? This is probably one of the biggest topics in bass fishing that an angler should learn more about.

Here you will be getting information on how to locate areas best for bass fishing. Locating bass and understanding the water would be the number one question among bass anglers today. The next most asked question would be is which baits they should use to catch a big bass.

Now when you think about it, there are really only two (2) main topics that go hand-in-hand when it comes to bass fishing. If you understood more about these two, you would definitely become a much better angler, and they are:

1. Knowing how to locate bass.

2. Knowing how to catch bass using all the different techniques, presentations, and baits.

Learning how to locate bass can be somewhat of a challenge to most anglers because there are so many different factors that need to be determined such as:

1. Knowing how to read a map – this is the fundamental skill that you should try to learn because through a map it is easier for you to take on the appropriate location good for bass fishing.

2. Knowing the most practical places to look for Active Bass just after cold fronts and during early spring and late fall periods – weather condition must be especially considered as well.

3. Understanding water depth- this is an important element because the depth or the hollowness of the water will serve as a factor for you to know if it is a good location.

4. Water clarity- it could be easier for you to now have your bass fishing if you are well-oriented about the water clarity of your location.

5. Water temperatures

6. Seasonal patterns- this is in relation with the trend whether bass fishing is seasonal or not.

7. Locating structure areas

8. Finding vegetation areas

But there is more! Being a consistent bass angler is so much more than just getting in your boat, hitting the water, and casting your baits. That’s why bass tournaments are so competitive and exciting, because the more you learn about locating bass the quicker you can start catching them right? And hey, isn’t that half the battle?

Let’s start by looking at a lake map. There are two general types of lake maps that most anglers will use which are referred to as the; “Hot Spot” and “Topographical” maps. The differences between the two is that a “Topo” map shows more detail, and the “Hot Spots” map shows more fishing spots (well, at least they’re supposed to).

The secret (or key) in learning how to use a lake map would be to sector the map. What I mean by this is that I will take the map and study it for a moment (looking for areas where the fish would most likely be.) Next, I will (using a highlighter) divide the map in sections based on how much time I have to pre-fish for a tournament or how many days I have to just fish the body of water for fun.

The size of the sections will vary depending on contours, structure, and how many places I may want to check out during the course of the day based on what the map shows me. I am certainly not one to just cast bait into the water and work it for five minutes and leave; I will try an assortment of baits if I see signs of fish in any given area to try to establish a working pattern.

Here are some key elements that you can usually look for when it comes to locating bass on any given body of water:

1. Vegetation areas

2. Irregular contours

3. Shallow water close to deep water areas

4. Points and point drops

5. Various types of structure

What Bass Fishing Equipment To Use

One of the most important things in the world of bass fishing equipment is being prepared and having the right, correct equipment for catching some of the biggest fishes ever seen! Bass fishing equipment is a business but a very rewarding one as it can prove very helpful to have the proper rods and reels when you’re out on the lake searching for that huge catch to help bring home the big fish.

Bass fishing equipment can get down to specifics that often throw off the novice fisherman. However, if you are a real fisherman even specifics will bring you joy. Knowing some of the specifics of bass fishing equipment will help save a lot of time and trouble in the long run. Line guides should be checked with a Q-tip to insure that the holes fit your line properly and won’t tear it in half when you’re reeling in a big fish.

The rods and reels are expensive and important pieces of your fishing arsenal. Making sure that your rods and reels are properly maintained is as important as buying the most expensive and reliable brands because without proper maintenance even the best reel can prove to be faulty when it comes down to the raging battle. A joyful raging battle between the fish and you. You wouldn’t want to lose that battle because you neglected proper reel and rod maintenance.

Check the rod itself, especially if you are using a two or three part rod. If you will find line cracks, they should be investigated and dealt with properly by yourself or your bait and tackle store. This is usually fairly inexpensive and certainly a whole lot less expensive than purchasing an entirely new rod.

If you fish every weekend, or twice a week (like I do) you should probably change your line every three months because of the stress put on it. Anything is better than losing a fish because you didn’t check a line properly for breaks or tears. This type of checking up on your bass fishing equipment is integral to any success you want to have as an fisherman.

Make sure you bring along proper clothing and attire. You could find yourself in some pretty intense battles with some fish and this could require you to spend a lot of time outdoors without shelter (don’t forget about the weather…). Make sure you have the right jackets and pants for the right seasons.

Inspect your fishing gear for any problems and then hit the lake for an exciting afternoon of bass fishing!

But first check your bass fishing equipment.

The Secrets To Bass Fishing

You just recently discovered the wonderful hobby of fishing but you aren’t sure what to do next. Which fish should you try for? What bait do you use? Well, here is a bit of info to help you get started on your fishing journey. This will help you take the guesswork out of one of the most favorite past times – Bass fishing. So lets get started on giving you some secrets of Bass fishing.

First, you must know what type of Bass you are going to fish for. This will help you in choosing the right equipment.. There are several types of Bass, including, but not limited to, large mouth bass, small mouth bass, fresh water bass and so on. Once you know what you are trying to catch, you can choose your bait. If you are a novice at this, you can check with the local bait shops to learn what works best in certain areas and they can also help you with other tackle issues as well.

Knowing what the bass normally eats will help you in choosing the right bait to catch them. Take the big mouth bass, for instance. He will eat almost anything that hits the water, so it will be easy to figure out what bait you should get. If you have ever heard of “fly fishing” , you have heard of Bass fishing. This is also a great sport for those who do not like to sit around waiting for a bite, as your chances are better catching a bass if you are casting and reeling frequently. Bass love to eat things that land on the water, so the frequent casting and reeling give that effect, making it easier to catch them.

Now you know what to use and how to use it, but where to find the big mouth bass? Many people make the mistake of going out into the middle of the lake to try to catch the big one. Well, here is a little secret on where the big guys hide. Big mouth Bass are usually found near rocks or near shore under the brush. There is no special time of year to go looking for these guys, as they are around all year, it just depends on the fisherman. Some people prefer bass fishing in the fall, as it is not too cold and the bass are usually larger since they are getting ready for the winter. If you live in a warmer climate, you might want to give it a try just after spawning is over, near the end of summer.

Handy Tips For Bass Fishing

Fishing different species of fish requires different techniques and tools. Generally it can be divided into fresh water and sea fishing and some species from the same family of fish live in the sea while others thrive in fresh water. An example of this is Bass fishing.

Bass fishing is undeniably one of the most sought after and wildly popular fresh water fishing sport only to be surpassed by trout fishing as the most exciting lake fishing sport. Although there are a wide variety of salt water bass as well as sea trout, commonly know as a “weakfish” caused by its diminished jaw capacity, the salt water sport fishing of these two species paled in popularity against their fresh water counterparts.

Bass fishing brings a lot of excitement to anglers. Big and small mouth bass are solid fighters and catching them requires an enormous amount of patience, strength and understanding of how the fish behave in different fishing conditions. Bass are also relatively intelligent predators compared to many other species of fish which gives them the advantage in detecting “dangers” posed by an angler, they become extra cautious and suspicious of what is being offered at the end of your rod.

With these in mind, it is crucial to understand what bass like and dislike. Having a good handle on these tips will ensure that you have a lot of success in catching bass.

When Is A Good Time To Go Bass Fishing?

Bass have very sensitive eyes and hence dislike sunlight. They are rarely out in the open and stay out of sight to avoid potential predators. To locate them you would have to find them in the reeds on the lake close to shore. Although this may seem like a technical difficulty – having to cast your rod from the shoreline and therefore not being able to cast into the reeds effectively. To overcome this, start your bass fishing as the sun is rising or setting. This strategy means strong direct sunlight is not hitting the entire lake, thus encouraging the bass to come out of hiding in the reeds, further away from the shoreline. Additionally in the early morning, bass will normally mount a feeding frenzy against insects such as flies and bugs that land on the water. This in turn makes it easier for you to catch bass which are more susceptible to lures, especially those that float on the water surface.

Go To Where The Fish Hides

To counter the problem of hitting mid-afternoon when the waters begin to heat up quite substantially, causing the fish to return to the reeds – try buying one of those relatively inexpensive small rubber rafts that can carry 2 people, head out onto the lake approximately ten to fifteen feet from the shore and cast straight into the reeds. You will have much success in catching the bass this way as they can be targeted much easier and with very little sunlight reaching the reed covers, you know they will be hiding there which makes for an easier catch.

Bass Fishing Lures: Use The Right Lure To Land Your Next Catch

In the world of bass fishing, the amateur and competitive nature of this sport has attracted a rather large following that has only continued to gain popularity over the years. In order to become a success, using fishing lures and bait is a must. Depending on the time of day or night, location, type of water, and depth – different bass fishing lures will produce better results than other selections. To become familiar with the most common and effective choices, consider the following suggestions:

Jigs

Many will say that jigs – heavy, lead-headed baits with a single hook are the most useful of baits to consider – especially when fishing in waters that are somewhat murky or clear. Jigs are good for attracting inactive fish and getting the attention of those who are buried deep. When using this type of lure, keep in mind that jigs are meant to create presentation, where success comes in making them appear noticeably alive. The ideal water temperature for this bass fishing lure is below 60 degrees. They are also perfect for night-fishing.

Rubber Worms

The hassle of dealing with real worms is eliminated when using rubber selections that work just as well. An added weight in the structure of the lure allows a slow descent to the bottom of your fishing location. When lucky, bass strike at the rubber worm. If the lure reaches the bottom without any action, simply reel it back towards the surface and let it drop once again.

Spinner Baits

The unusual shape of spinner baits are constructed with an over-sized metal attachment that spins. This lure doesn’t attract fish by appealing to their hunger, but rather through agitation. Spinner baits are year-round lures that especially work well during the spawning season when bass are less desperate to feed.

Crank Baits

Through the imitation of a weak or injured fish, crank lures are used as top water and sinking lures. The added cranking noise attracts bass with its sound. A slow approach is necessary in order to successfully imitate an injured fish.

Poppers

While poppers are similar to crank baits, they are set aside solely as a top water lure. As they travel across the water, a “popping” sound is emitted. The best time of year to use this lure is during the summertime, where slow reel action is required.

Grubs

The smallmouth bass is especially attracted to the tiny lures known as grubs, which are geared towards larger catches. Grubs are bare jig heads with a soft-plastic body added to a hook. When a highland reservoir lacks ample cover, this lure is rather effective. Clear and deep waters are the greatest locations to use grubs, where white, yellow, salt and pepper, and smoke selections work best.

Tube Baits

When fishing in clear water or surrounded by inactive fish, tube jigs works wonders to specifically target bass. A spinning reel on a 6 to 6 ½-foot medium-light to medium action rod best accommodates this type of drop bait. Also, seek out water no deeper than 10 feet when using tube baits.

Vibrating Lures

Plastic or metal is used to create the vibrating lures that generate a tremor when retrieved out of the water. With a sound (much like a rattle), the baits sink to the bottom and do not get lost in particularly deep waters. A variety of lures are offered in this category, including tailspinners, which are heavy, compact baits of metal that uses a small spinner to attract the bass. Use vibrating lures when fishing about stumps, close to river currents, on deep channel drop-offs, and over waterlogged grass beds.