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Smallmouth bass fishing is more than a hobby for some; it’s a way of life. For others, it’s a peaceful escape from the world. The goal for all anglers is to catch more and bigger bass.
By knowing the smallmouth bass’s habitat, diet, and life cycles, anglers can find the best spots and times to fish. This guide will share expert tips and techniques. It’s designed to help anglers of all levels catch more smallmouth bass.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the habitat, diet, spawn cycles, and growth cycles of smallmouth bass to improve your fishing success
- Learn expert tips and techniques to catch more and bigger smallmouth bass
- Discover the best gear, lures, and line for smallmouth bass fishing
- Explore proven tactics for fishing in different seasons and water conditions
- Implement presentation techniques to target surface-feeding and deep-water smallmouth bass
Spring Bass Fishing Tactics
When the ice melts and the water warms up, anglers use two key tactics to catch smallmouth bass. These are hair jigs and suspending jerkbaits. They work well when bass are hungry in the spring.
Hair Jigs for Early Season
Hair jigs have been a favorite for catching smallmouth bass since the 1970s. The author likes a simple, 1/16- to 3/32-ounce hair jig in black. It’s paired with a long, medium-light rod, a big reel, and 6- to 8-pound braid or 4-pound monofilament line.
The trick is to move the jig very slowly. Almost stop it just above the bottom. This slow movement can really excite smallmouth bass in the early spring.
Suspending Jerkbaits
Suspending jerkbaits are also very effective in the early season. Experts like Gord Pyzer and Mike Karempelis suggest using a Rapala X-Rap or Lucky Craft Pointer jerkbait. They recommend a slow, “painfully protracted pause” between twitches.
The goal is to make the lure seem still in the water’s upper layer. This can make smallmouths strike aggressively, especially in cold, clear water. A 7-foot 4-inch rod, a big reel, 8- to 10-pound braid, and a fluorocarbon leader are the best tools for this method.
“The key is to let the lure hang motionless in the upper portion of the water column, as this can drive smallmouths crazy, especially in cold, clear water.”
Grubs and Plastics
As the water warms, anglers can switch to finesse presentations. These include 1/16- to 1/8-ounce jig-grub or jig-worm combos. Many like a simple 4-inch Yamamoto grub rigged with the tail down and the hook point up on a Gopher Tackle Mushroom Head Jig.
Trying different plastic worm styles, like the Berkley PowerBait Worm and the Berkley Havoc Beat Shad, can also work well.
Jig-Worm Combos
This finesse presentation is best on a 7-foot G. Loomis Bronzeback Series spinning rod. Use 4- to 6-pound Maxima Ultragreen line. The jig-worm combo’s subtle action is deadly for wary, post-spawn smallmouth.
Focus on working clean structures and bottom features to get the most out of this presentation.
| Grub Size | Popularity | Key Applications |
|---|---|---|
| 3″, 4″, 5″ | Majority of bass fishermen | Most applications |
| Texas rigged | Recommended | Fishing in brush to minimize hang-ups |
| 1/8, 1/4, 3/8 oz. leadheads | Meet 75-80% of fishing situations | – |
| Carolina rigs, 3″, 4″, 5″ | Can work well | Cold water periods |
| Exposed hook jigs | Not advised | Around grass |
| 2-3 inch | Great | Drop-shot bait |
| As trailer or swimmer | Effective | Spinnerbaits, darter head jigs |
Grubs are very versatile and affordable for trout and bass fishing. They come in many sizes, colors, and styles. Both trout and bass anglers can try different Yamamoto grubs, Kalin’s grubs, and other plastics to find the best for their local waters.
The Ned Rig Phenomenon
The Ned Rig is a game-changer for catching smallmouth bass. It’s made of a Z-Man Finesse TRD or a cut-down ZinkerZ on a Z-Man ShroomZ jighead. This rig looks like a goby or sculpin and works best in 5- to 10-foot deep water in spring.
Guide Mike Karempelis loves the Ned Rig. He uses a 3-inch bait on a 1/10- or 1/6-ounce jighead. This lets the bait stand up vertically when paused. Karempelis drags and pops the rig to mimic a lure’s drop.
The Ned Rig started in the Midwest finesse fishing movement. From 2006 to 2014, the 2 ½-inch ZinkerZ and Strike King Lure Company’s 2 1/2-inch Zero were key. But it wasn’t until 2010 that Steve Quinn named it the Ned Rig in In-Fisherman magazine.
| Key Milestones | Year |
|---|---|
| Steve Quinn identified the Ned Rig in In-Fisherman magazine | 2010 |
| Stacey King created a Ned Rig segment for “The Bass Pros” TV show | 2010 |
| Steve Quinn identified the Z-Man Finesse ShadZ as a Ned Rig | 2013-2014 |
| The Ned Rig phenomenon gained international attention | 2010s |
Now, the Ned Rig is known worldwide. Its simplicity and effectiveness have made it a favorite among anglers. It works well in many water conditions, making it a key tool in many fishing kits.
Tube Tactics
As the water gets close to spawning temperatures around 58°F, experienced anglers turn to tube baits for smallmouth bass. These lures have been effective for decades. Many experts see them as a top choice for catching these feisty fish.
Drag and Dead-Stick Tubes
Mike Karempelis is one such expert. He uses different tube presentations to catch smallmouth. He likes a 1/8- to 1/4-ounce insert jighead and a drag-and-dead-stick technique in the prespawn stage.
By dragging the tube along the bottom and letting it sit still, Karempelis tempts bass to strike. He prefers fatter tubes that look like gobies, a favorite food for smallmouth. He also tries different tube shapes, colors, and lengths to see what works best each day.
The Gamakatsu Micro Wide Gap Hook in sizes 2/0 to 3/0 helps set hooks well with this weightless presentation.
“In the spring, the key is to dead-stick the tube, letting it sit motionless on the bottom, as bass will often stare at it and eventually eat it.”
Tube fishing is a key technique for many smallmouth bass anglers. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a favorite for various fishing situations. Tubes work well in both shallow and deep water when chasing these hard-fighting gamefish.
Wacky Rig Senkos
When the water warms up to mid- to high-50°F, the wacky-rigged 5-inch Yamamoto Senko is a top pick for catching smallmouth bass. Anglers often choose the Gamakatsu Micro Wide Gap Hook in sizes 2/0 to 3/0. This hook’s design ensures a solid hookset, keeping the bass securely caught.
The wacky rig’s slow fall is key to its success during the prespawn. It keeps the Senko lure in the strike zone longer before settling on the bottom. This slow fall mimics the natural movement of baitfish, attracting smallmouth bass as they move to shallower waters for spawning.
- The recommended sizes for wacky rig hooks are #1 and 1/0.
- The Arsenal Wacky Bands and Tool provide an ultimate solution for bait preservation in wacky rigging.
- Popular Senkos & stick worms cost over $5 per bag on average.
Using a good wacky system, like the Arsenal Wacky tool, can save money. It reduces lost baits and offers more value per bait. Also, making your own wacky jigs for deeper water or current can simplify your gear and reduce tackle needs.
The wacky rig is a go-to for both new and seasoned smallmouth bass anglers. Its simplicity and effectiveness in getting bites make it a must-have for spring fishing.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing for Everyone: how to best techniques gear, lures line
To catch trophy smallmouth bass, you need to know their habitat, diet, and behavior. Learning the right techniques, choosing the best gear, and using top lures and line can help. This way, any angler can up their chances of catching a strong smallmouth.
It’s key to fish in low light, like early morning or late afternoon. Smallmouth are more active and aggressive then. They’re easier to catch. Also, spring and early summer are great times to fish, when the water is between 60-75°F.
Having a wide range of lures is important. Spinnerbaits, topwater baits, Texas-rigged plastics, and finesse lures like the Ned Rig work well. Recommended lures include senkos, tube jigs, husky jerks, panther-martin spinners, crawlers, crawdads, grubs, and dropshotting in colors like hot orange, pumpkinseed, and chartreuse/green. Bait sizes should be 3 to 5 inches.
| Lure Type | Recommended Sizes | Preferred Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Tubes, Stick Baits | 3″ – 5″ | Pumpkinseed, Smoke Sparkle/White, Chartreuse/Green |
| Grubs, Crankbaits, Spinnerbaits, Buzzbaits | 3″ – 5″ | Hot Orange, Changeable Craw |
Using the right gear is also crucial. You’ll need bass rods, reels, and line that can handle smallmouth’s power. With the right techniques, lures, and gear, all anglers can enjoy catching these amazing fish.
“Smallmouth bass were once considered just a northern relative of the black bass family. Now smallmouth bass fishing is an All-American gamefish pursuit.”
Finding Fall Smallmouth
As autumn comes, smallmouth bass move from shallow waters to deeper areas. They search for shad and cisco to eat. Anglers look for points, sharp drop-offs, and deep rockpiles where these baitfish schools are.
Advanced anglers use bathymetric maps and fish finders like Humminbird FishSmart. They also use GPS apps like Navionics to find these spots. Once they find the baitfish schools, the smallmouth will be there, feeding before winter.
Locating Baitfish Schools
Finding baitfish is key for fall smallmouth fishing. Whether it’s shad or cisco, these baitfish are the main food for smallmouth getting ready for winter. By using bathymetric maps and electronics, anglers can find where these baitfish are.
With the right tools and knowledge of structure, anglers can catch big fall smallmouth. This season is great for finding and catching trophy fish.
Fall Lure Selection
When the weather cools and leaves turn, smallmouth bass anglers must change their lure choices. These fish move to different depths and hide in various spots. A versatile tackle box is key to catching them.
Crankbaits like the Shad Rap and Berkley Flicker Shad are great for covering water. They dive deep and mimic baitfish, attracting bass that roam in search of food.
For pickier fish, try smaller spinnerbaits like the Rooster Tail and Blue Fox Vibrax. These spinners work well in deeper, cooler water. They trigger strikes from bass hiding in these areas.
Jerkbaits such as the Husky Jerk and Ripstop are perfect for slow, detailed presentations. They work best in water less than 10 feet deep, near cover and structure. Their erratic action is hard for smallmouths to resist.
In deeper water, heavy jigs like the Bitsy Bug and Buck-A-Roo are effective. Use them with soft plastic trailers like the Super Fluke or Senko. This combo is great when bass are finicky and need a gentle approach.
Having a wide range of lures helps anglers adjust to the changing needs of smallmouth bass in the fall. This increases their chances of catching these challenging fish.
Presentation Techniques
Anglers have many techniques and lures to catch smallmouth bass. They can be found on the surface or in deeper waters. Knowing how to use these methods can help you catch smallmouth bass all year.
Surface Feeding Fish
Fall is a great time to catch smallmouth bass when they feed on the surface. Look for small ripples or splashy rises. These signs mean baitfish are nearby.
Cast small spinners or jerkbaits into the area. Move them slowly. The bass will think they’re baitfish and attack.
Deeper Water Bass Lures Buy Now
Smallmouth bass in deep water need a different approach. Use crankbaits to search for them. Look for drop-offs, deep flats, and sunken rockpiles.
Once you find them, switch to a heavy jig or drop-shot rig. Use soft plastic baits. Work the lures on the bottom to attract bass.
| Lure Type | Presentation Technique | Target Location |
|---|---|---|
| Spinners, Jerkbaits | Cast into fringe of baitfish activity, leisurely retrieve | Surface feeding fish |
| Crankbaits | Cover water to locate active fish | Drop-offs, deep flats, sunken rockpiles, points |
| Jigs, Drop-shot rigs with soft plastics | Work lures along the bottom, bounce and twitch | Directly on top of fish schools |
“The key is to work the lures along the bottom, bouncing and twitching them to stir up sand and attract the feeding bass.”
Catching Trophies
The fall season is perfect for catching big smallmouth bass. As the water cools, these fish become more active. They start to feed more, making it easier to catch them.
Finding the right spots is crucial. These bass move to deeper water, 10 to 20 feet deep, to find baitfish. Using fish finders and maps helps locate these areas.
- Lightweight, medium-action rods paired with 6- to 10-pound monofilament or fluorocarbon lines are recommended for fall smallmouth fishing.
- Effective lures for trophy smallmouth include crankbaits like the Shad Rap and Berkley Flicker Shad, as well as spinnerbaits and jerkbaits.
- Jigs and soft plastics, such as the Bitsy Bug, Buck-A-Roo, Super Fluke, and Senko, can also be highly productive.
How you present your lure is key. You might need to change your approach based on the bass’s mood. Being patient and paying close attention can lead to a big catch.
“The fall is the best time of year to catch that elusive, giant bronzeback that anglers have always dreamed about. By staying dedicated and fishing through the end of the season, you just might land the trophy of a lifetime.”
Fall smallmouth bass fishing offers a chance to catch impressive fish. By focusing on the right spots, using the right gear, and perfecting your presentation, you can make the most of this exciting time.
“Buy this book. It makes a perfect gift.”
Conclusion
Smallmouth bass fishing is both rewarding and challenging for anglers of all levels. Knowing the seasonal patterns and habits of these fish can greatly improve your chances. This guide has shared expert tips and techniques for catching smallmouth bass.
Whether you’re aiming for a new personal best or just want to have fun, smallmouth bass fishing is a unique experience. Our team, with decades of experience, offers a wide range of bass fishing gear, lures and line. This helps anglers of all levels to catch more smallmouth bass.
This website is always updated with new information and insights. You’ll find the latest bass fishing tips and essential fishing equipment here. So, whether you’re new to angling for smallmouth bass or an experienced angler, this guide has everything you need. Tight lines and happy fishing!
FAQ
What are some effective early season tactics for catching smallmouth bass?
Early in the season, using hair jigs and suspending jerkbaits works well. Hair jigs in the 1/16- to 3/32-ounce range, often in black, are effective when retrieved slowly. Suspending jerkbaits like the Rapala X-Rap or Lucky Craft Pointer, fished with a slow pause, are also deadly in cold, clear water.
What are some versatile spring bass fishing presentations?
As the water warms, try 1/16- to 1/8-ounce jig-grub or jig-worm combos. A 4-inch Yamamoto grub rigged on a Gopher Tackle Mushroom Head Jig is effective. Also, try different plastic worm styles, like the Berkley PowerBait Worm and the Berkley Havoc Beat Shad.
How can the Ned Rig be used as a springtime technique for smallmouth bass?
The Ned Rig, with a Z-Man Finesse TRD or cut-down ZinkerZ on a Z-Man ShroomZ jighead, works well in spring. Use a 3-inch bait on a 1/10- or 1/6-ounce jighead. Drag and pop the rig to imitate the lure’s drop.
What are some effective tube tactics for prespawn smallmouth bass?
Use tube baits when the water hits 58°F. A 1/8- to 1/4-ounce insert jighead works best. Drag the tube on the bottom and let it sit still. Bass will stare at it and then eat it. Try different tube shapes, colors, and lengths.
How can the wacky-rigged Senko be an effective springtime presentation?
The wacky-rigged 5-inch Yamamoto Senko is deadly in mid- to high-50°F water. Use a Gamakatsu Micro Wide Gap Hook in 2/0 to 3/0 size. A slow, natural fall is key to keeping the Senko in the strike zone.
How can anglers locate and target fall smallmouth bass?
Fall smallmouth seek deeper, open water for baitfish like shad and cisco. Use bathymetric maps, fish finders, and GPS apps to find key areas. Points of structure, sharp drop-offs, and deep rockpiles are good places to start.
What are some effective lure choices for targeting fall smallmouth bass?
For fall smallmouth, have a mix of lures for different depths and feeding behaviors. Crankbaits, in-line spinners, jerkbaits, heavy jigs, and soft plastics are all good choices. Match your presentation to the conditions and experiment to find what works.
How can anglers target surface-feeding and deeper-water fall smallmouth?
For surface-feeding bass, look for small ripples or splashy rises. Cast small spinners or jerkbaits into the activity and retrieve slowly. For deeper bass, use crankbaits to find active fish, then switch to heavier jigs or drop-shot rigs.
What makes the fall season a prime time to target trophy-sized smallmouth bass?
Fall is the best time to catch big, elusive smallmouth. They feed aggressively, making it easier to find and catch them. Stay persistent and you might catch the fish of a lifetime.
