Fall Bass Fishing for Catching Big Bass
Introduction
Fall is a magical time for bass fishing enthusiasts. As the temperatures begin to drop, and the leaves start to change, bass become more active, feeding voraciously in preparation for the upcoming winter months. To maximize your success during this season, it’s crucial to choose the right lures and techniques. In this article, we will explore the top five fall bass fishing lures and provide valuable insights on how to use them effectively to catch big bass.
Crankbaits
Crankbaits are versatile lures that can be highly effective during the fall months. They imitate baitfish and can cover a wide range of depths, making them ideal for exploring different parts of the water column where bass may be lurking.
How to Use Crankbaits for Fall Bass Fishing:
Select the Right Depth: Start by choosing a crankbait that dives to the appropriate depth for your fishing location. In the early fall, when bass are still relatively shallow, opt for shallow-running crankbaits. As the season progresses and the water cools, transition to deeper-running models.
Vary the Retrieve: Experiment with your retrieve speed and depth. A steady, medium-speed retrieve often works well, but don’t hesitate to change it up. Sometimes, a stop-and-go or erratic retrieve can trigger strikes from fall bass.
Target Structure: Focus on areas with structure, such as rocks, stumps, and submerged vegetation, as these are prime hiding spots for bass during the fall. Crankbaits that deflect off structure can mimic a fleeing baitfish and entice strikes.
Spinnerbaits
Spinnerbaits are highly effective for covering water quickly and triggering aggressive strikes from bass. They create vibrations and flash that mimic a school of baitfish, making them irresistible to hungry bass in the fall.
How to Use Spinnerbaits for Fall Bass Fishing:
Choose the Right Blade Combination: Spinnerbaits come with various blade combinations. In clear water, opt for Colorado or Willowleaf blades for added flash. In murky water, use Colorado blades for their vibration and thump. Experiment with different blade sizes and colors to see what the bass prefer on any given day.
Retrieve Over Structure: Like crankbaits, spinnerbaits excel when worked near structure. Retrieve them over and around submerged vegetation, rocks, and along drop-offs. Be prepared for strikes to occur as the spinnerbait comes over or near structure.
Change Your Retrieve Speed: Vary your retrieve speed to find the sweet spot. Sometimes, a fast retrieve with a lot of vibration can trigger strikes, while other times, a slow, steady retrieve is more effective.
Jigs
Jigs are known for their ability to entice big bass, and they are particularly effective in the fall when bass are feeding aggressively to bulk up for the winter. They imitate crawfish, a staple in a bass’s diet.
How to Use Jigs for Fall Bass Fishing:
Select the Right Jig Head and Trailer: Choose a jig head weight that matches the depth you’re fishing. Heavier jigs are suitable for deeper water, while lighter jigs work well in shallower areas. Pair your jig with a trailer that mimics the local forage, such as a crawfish or baitfish imitation.
Pitch and Flip: One of the most effective techniques with jigs is “pitching” or “flipping.” Cast your jig near likely bass hideouts, such as submerged logs, brush piles, or docks. Let it sink to the bottom, and then use your rod to hop it along, imitating a crawfish’s natural movement.
Drag and Hop: If you’re fishing deeper water, consider dragging the jig slowly along the bottom, occasionally hopping it to mimic a crawfish’s defensive movements. Pay close attention to any subtle strikes, as big bass often engulf jigs with minimal hesitation.
Soft Plastic Baits
Soft plastic baits, such as plastic worms and creature baits, are a staple in any bass angler’s arsenal. In the fall, these baits can be deadly when presented correctly.
How to Use Soft Plastic Baits for Fall Bass Fishing:
Texas Rigging: Texas rigging is a popular technique for fishing soft plastics in the fall. Insert a bullet weight into the front of the bait, followed by a hook that remains weedless. Cast your rigged bait near structure or drop-offs and slowly drag it along the bottom. Pause occasionally, allowing the bait to rest on the bottom before continuing the retrieve.
Carolina Rigging: For a different approach, try the Carolina rig. This involves using a sliding weight above a swivel, followed by a leader with your soft plastic bait. The Carolina rig is excellent for covering a larger area and keeping your bait above the bottom.
Drop Shot Rig: In clear water or when bass are more finicky, the drop shot rig can be effective. Rig your soft plastic bait above the weight using a special drop shot hook. This keeps the bait suspended above the bottom, enticing reluctant bass.
Topwater Lures
While topwater lures are often associated with summer fishing, they can still produce explosive strikes in the fall, especially during low light conditions like dawn and dusk.
How to Use Topwater Lures for Fall Bass Fishing:
Work the Surface: Use topwater lures like poppers, walkers, or buzzbaits to create surface commotion. These lures mimic injured or struggling prey, making them irresistible to bass. Cast near cover, such as lily pads or submerged logs, and work your lure with short, sharp twitches or a steady retrieve.
Adjust for Water Temperature: Keep in mind that topwater action may slow down as the water cools, so don’t be discouraged if you’re not getting immediate results. However, if you encounter a warm spell or find yourself fishing in the late fall during a mild day, be prepared for exciting topwater action.
Conclusion
Fall bass fishing can be incredibly rewarding for anglers who are prepared with the right lures and techniques. The top five fall bass fishing lures discussed in this article – crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, soft plastic baits, and topwater lures – cover a range of scenarios and can help you catch big bass during this season. Remember to adapt your tactics based on water conditions, the bass’s behavior, and the depth at which they are holding. With patience and persistence, you can enjoy some of the best bass fishing of the year during the fall months.
