Largemouth bass are the most popular game fish in America. They hit hard, fight harder and live in lakes and ponds in almost every state. Here is how to catch more of them.
Where to Find Largemouth Bass
Bass love cover. Look for them around weed beds, lily pads, docks, fallen trees and rocky points. In summer they move deeper during the day and come shallow at dawn and dusk.
Understanding Bass Behavior
Bass are ambush predators. They hide in cover and strike at prey that swims by. Water temperature drives their activity: they feed most aggressively between about 60°F and 80°F.
Gear for Bass Fishing
Rod
A 7-foot medium-heavy casting rod with a fast action is the classic all-around bass rod.
Spinning or Baitcasting Reel?
Baitcasters give you more control and power for heavy cover. Spinning reels are easier for beginners and great for light finesse lures.
Line
Use 12 to 17-lb fluorocarbon for most lures, or 30 to 50-lb braid for thick vegetation.
The Best Lures for Largemouth Bass
Topwater Lures
Poppers, walking baits and frogs create explosive strikes, especially early and late in the day.
Crankbaits and Spinnerbaits
Cover lots of water quickly to find active fish.
Soft Plastics and Jigs
Texas-rigged worms, creature baits and jigs are deadly around heavy cover when fish are less active.
Lure Presentation Tips
- Cast past your target and bring the lure through the strike zone
- Vary your retrieve speed until you find what works
- Pause your lure: many strikes come on the pause
- Set the hook firmly when you feel weight
Find more in our fishing gear section.