As winter transitions to spring, bass fishing heats up as well. The pre-spawn period is one of the best times to target high-quality largemouth and smallmouth bass. Here are some helpful tips and techniques for catching big bass during the pre-spawn.
The pre-spawn period usually occurs when water temperatures rise to around 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. During this time, bass will start to move from deeper water to shallower areas to start preparing for the spawn. This makes them more accessible for anglers, as they are actively feeding and more willing to take a bait.
One effective technique for pre-spawn bass is to fish with jigs or soft plastic creature baits in deeper water near rocky areas. The bass tend to concentrate around these types of structure during this period. Try fishing in areas where the water drops off into deeper pools or channels. Using a slow and steady retrieve, work the bait along the bottom, bouncing it off rocks and other structure to trigger a reaction bite. Soft plastic paddle tail swimbaits are also great lures to use in deeper water during pre-spawn.
Another effective technique is to target the shallow flats and weed beds where bass will be preparing to spawn. This is a great time to use topwater lures such as buzzbaits, poppers, and frogs. These lures imitate prey that the bass will be feeding on such as frogs, insects, and small baitfish. Make sure to cast your lures parallel to the weed line and work them slowly back to the boat, pausing occasionally to allow the bass to strike. Soft plastic paddle tail swimbaits can also be used effectively in shallow water, especially if the bass are feeding on smaller baitfish.
Finally, don't forget to pay attention to the weather and water conditions during the pre-spawn. Overcast days with a light wind tend to produce the best bite. A slight breeze will help to break up the surface of the water, making it more difficult for the bass to see your bait. Keeping an eye on water clarity is also important, as bass tend to be more active in stained or muddy water.
In conclusion, pre-spawn bass fishing can be incredibly exciting and rewarding. Use jigs, soft plastic creature baits, and soft plastic paddle tail swimbaits around rocky structure in deeper water or topwater lures in shallow flats and weed beds to catch the big bass you're after!