As the warm sun shines, and the gentle breeze ripples the water's surface, the summer season calls for anglers to embark on thrilling fishing adventures. Bass fishing in the summer is an experience like no other. The summer is a good time to catch bites as post-spawn fish are hungry and fattening up. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a novice enthusiast, let’s dive into the world of summer bass fishing.
Understanding Bass Behaviors
Bass are often a very predictable fish. Trying to understand and predict bass behavior will help your odds of catching one on your trip. Post-spawn season (summer) means that fish will be growing and hungry. Additionally, bass have a higher metabolism in the summer, meaning they eat more. Using big and attractive lures or baits will make a hungry bass go crazy.
Water temperature and water clarity affect bass behavior in the summertime. As the summer water temp climbs, bass go to the darkest shadows or coverings. Usually, bass flock to grass or vegetation in high heat to help get oxygen and cool down. If the water is over 80oF fish may start to go deeper in the water.
Pay attention to weather patterns, as they can influence bass behavior. Overcast days or light rain can make bass more active and more likely to roam shallow waters. Use this knowledge to help predict where bass are most active.
Best Locations
Bass can be caught at any time of the day. However, it’s best to fish in the morning or evening and avoid the hottest parts of the day. It’s a double win. You will beat the heat and bass are more tempted to bite. When looking for a spot to fish, look for ledges, drop-offs, and overhanging covers. During the summer months, bass seek shelter in various structures and covers such as docks, weed beds, submerged trees, and rocky areas.
The best locations to fish are on banks, under trees, or near the grass. Targeting these areas significantly increases your chances of finding active bass. Bass are cold-blooded creatures, so they prefer specific water temperatures. Look for areas with moderate temperatures and good oxygen levels, such as deeper sections of lakes, shaded spots, or areas with moving water.
Best Lures
Utilize your big bait and lures for bass fishing in the summer. Experiment with different colors and sizes to match the local forage and mimic natural movement. Try out these lures for the best results:
● Soft plastic worms (Rig a wacky worm for optimal results)
● Crankbaits
● Spinnerbaits
● Topwaters
● Frogs
Best Techniques
Initially, when you head out to fish, start your trip fishing in shallow waters. Many different techniques can be used to catch bass in shallow water. Jigs are versatile and can be used year-round. During summer, try dragging a jig along the bottom near a structure or hopping it through weed beds to tempt bass into biting. When targeting heavy cover, flipping and pitching techniques allow you to accurately present your bait in tight spaces. Use a heavy-action rod, a strong line, and a soft plastic bait rigged weedless for maximum effectiveness.
If you aren’t catching anything in shallow water, go deep. Drop shotting works well when bass are active in deeper water. Rig a drop shot with a plastic worm or bait and maintain contact with the bottom, gently shaking the bait to entice strikes.
Summer bass fishing presents an exhilarating opportunity to reel in some impressive catches. By understanding bass behavior, selecting the right fishing spots, mastering a variety of lures, and employing effective techniques, you can significantly enhance your success on the water. So, grab your gear, head to your favorite fishing spot, and get ready for an unforgettable summer of bass fishing adventures!