Bass fishing is one of the most popular pastimes in America, and it’s no wonder why. With its explosive strikes and powerful fights, bass fishing can be an adrenaline-filled experience like none other. If you want to land yourself a trophy catch, then read on as we reveal our top 5 best lures for bass fishing.
Introduction to Bass Fishing
Before we dive into the different types of lures, let’s first take a look at what makes bass fishing so special. Bass are known for their aggressiveness and intelligence, making them a challenging yet rewarding species to target. They can be found in various bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and ponds, and they feed on a variety of prey including smaller fish, crayfish, and insects.
Best Lures for Bass Fishing
Now, onto the good stuff! Here are our top 5 best lures for bass fishing:
1. Spinnerbait – This type of lure has been around for decades and remains a favorite among anglers. It consists of a metal blade attached to a hook with a trailer or skirt made of rubber or plastic. The spinnerbait creates vibrations and flashes that mimic injured baitfish, which attracts hungry bass.
2. Jig – A jig is a versatile lure that can be used in both shallow and deep waters. It features a lead head with a curved shank and a soft plastic body that resembles a crawfish or worm. When retrieved, the jig moves up and down, imitating a struggling baitfish.
3. Topwater – Also called walking baits, these lures sit on the surface of the water and walk along the top, creating a commotion that draws in curious bass. Some popular types include buzzbaits, poppers, and chuggers.
4. Swimbait – These large, soft plastic lures are designed to swim through the water like a real fish. They come in various sizes and colors, allowing you to match the hatch and target specific species of bass.
5. Crankbait – Another classic lure, crankbaits feature a hard plastic body with a diving lip that allows them to sink and retrieve at varying depths. They create a side-to-side motion that mimics a wounded minnow, enticing nearby bass to strike.
Where to go Bass Fishing
Once you have your arsenal of lures ready, it’s time to find the perfect spot to cast your line. Here are some tips on where to go bass fishing:
Look for areas with structure such as rocks, logs, and vegetation. These provide hiding places for bass and make great ambush points.
Check out drop-offs or ledges where the bottom drops off quickly. These areas often hold big schools of baitfish, which in turn attract larger predators like bass.
Shallow water can also be productive during certain times of year when bass move into shallower waters to spawn.
How to catch big Bass
So now that you know about the best lures and where to go bass fishing, here are some tips on how to catch big bass:
Use the right gear. Make sure you have a rod and reel combo that can handle bigger fish. Heavier line test and stronger drag settings will help you land those monster bass.
Be patient. Big bass don’t usually come easy. Sometimes it takes hours or even days of waiting before getting that once-in-a-lifetime catch.
Experiment with different techniques. Try using different retrieves, speeds, and cadences until you find something that works. Don’t be afraid to switch things up if you’re not having any luck.
Equipment for Bass Fishing
In addition to the right tackle, there are other pieces of equipment that can enhance your bass fishing experience:
Sunglasses – Polarized sunglasses help reduce glare from the sun and allow you to see beneath the surface of the water.
Boat – While not essential, having a boat can give you access to more remote locations and deeper waters.
GPS – A GPS unit can help you navigate unfamiliar waters and mark important waypoints for future trips.
What Lures to use for Bass Fishing
Finally, let’s talk about what lures to use for bass fishing. As mentioned earlier, each type of lure has its own unique characteristics and applications. Here are some general guidelines on what lures to use depending on the situation:
For clear water conditions, try using finesse baits like small jigs or worms. These won’t spook easily and can be worked slowly and methodically.
In murky or stained water, opt for brightly colored baits like spinners or topwaters. These will create more visual appeal and attract attention from distant bass.
During low light periods such as early morning or late evening, darker color patterns tend to work better since they absorb more light and appear more natural.
Teaching my child to Bass Fish
One of the joys of bass fishing is being able to share the experience with others, especially children. Teaching kids how to bass fish can be a fun and rewarding activity that helps build confidence and fosters a love for nature. Here are some tips on teaching your child to bass fish:
Start with simple concepts like casting and retrieving. Encourage them to practice their technique until they feel comfortable.
Choose kid-friendly lures that are easy to use and less intimidating. Soft plastics like worms or grubs work well.
Keep it fun by incorporating games and challenges, such as seeing who can catch the biggest fish or the most fish within a set amount of time.
How to fish for Bass from my boat
If you do decide to invest in a boat, here are some tips on how to fish for bass from your vessel:
Find a quiet cove or area away from heavy traffic where you can concentrate on fishing without distractions.
Work the edges of the lake or river, focusing on areas with cover like trees, brush, or rock formations.
Vary your speed and direction while trolling to cover more ground and trigger strikes from active bass.
Remember to keep safety in mind at all times. Wear your life jacket, avoid alcohol consumption, and always monitor weather conditions before heading out.
