Bass fishing in the summer can be an exciting and rewarding experience. As the weather heats up, bass become more active, and choosing the right bait is crucial to landing that trophy catch. In this article, we’ll explore the top three baits to use for bass fishing during those sunny summer days. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, these bait choices will help you make the most of your summer fishing adventures.
Plastic Worms: A Time-Tested Favorite
Plastic worms have been a staple in the tackle boxes of bass anglers for decades. They remain a top choice for summer bass fishing, and for good reason. These lifelike lures come in various colors and sizes, allowing you to mimic the bass’s natural prey.
How to Fish with Plastic Worms:
- Texas Rig: One of the most effective ways to fish with plastic worms during the summer is to use the Texas rig. To set up a Texas rig, simply thread the hook through the top of the worm and then bury the hook point into the worm’s body, making it weedless.
- Pitching and Flipping: Pitching and flipping plastic worms into heavy cover, like submerged vegetation or brush piles, can yield great results. Let the worm sink slowly, and then give it subtle twitches to imitate the movements of a real worm.
- Vary the Retrieval Speed: Experiment with different retrieval speeds, from slow to moderately fast, to see what entices the bass in your area. Sometimes, a slow, tantalizing crawl is just what they’re looking for.
Crankbaits: Dive Deep for Summer Success
Crankbaits are another excellent choice for summer bass fishing, especially when bass are hanging out in deeper waters. These lures come in various shapes, sizes, and diving depths, making it easy to reach the bass where they’re hiding.
How to Fish with Crankbaits:
- Choose the Right Depth: Select a crankbait that dives to the depth where the bass are located. During the summer, bass may be holding at different levels in the water column, so having a selection of crankbaits is a good idea.
- Reel and Retrieve: Cast your crankbait out, and then reel it in with a steady retrieve. As you reel, the crankbait wobbles and dives, mimicking the motion of a distressed prey fish.
- Pause and Twitch: Occasionally pause your retrieval and give your rod tip a little twitch. This mimics the behavior of a wounded fish, which can trigger aggressive strikes from bass.
Topwater Lures: Exciting Surface Action
When the sun is high, and the water is warm, topwater lures can create an adrenaline-pumping experience. These baits float on the water’s surface and imitate various types of prey, enticing bass to strike from below.
How to Fish with Topwater Lures:
- Early Morning and Late Evening: Topwater lures are most effective during the low light hours of early morning and late evening. Cast your lure near shoreline structures, like overhanging trees or weed beds.
- Retrieve with a Twitch: To trigger explosive strikes, retrieve the topwater lure with a series of quick twitches. This imitates the erratic movements of prey on the water’s surface.
- Be Patient: After a bass strikes, don’t set the hook immediately. Wait for a moment to ensure the fish has the lure in its mouth before setting the hook.
Conclusion
Summer bass fishing can be incredibly rewarding, and using the right baits can make all the difference. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and topwater lures are three top choices that cater to various summer bass fishing situations. Experiment with different colors and sizes to find what works best in your local waters. Remember, every fishing experience is a learning opportunity, and as you hone your skills and explore these baits, you’ll be on your way to some unforgettable summer bass catches. Happy fishing!