The Widely Distributed Fish, Bass
Bass are among the most popular fish for anglers and recreational fishers alike. These predatory fish are found in many fresh and saltwater habitats around the world, and they offer a great taste and challenge to any angler who is willing to take them on. In this article, we will explore the many fascinating aspects of Bass, from their behavior and diets to the different species available to anglers. Let’s get started.
The Different Kinds of Bass
Bass can be divided into two broad categories, the black bass and the white bass. Black bass include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and bass of the sunfish family. White bass are more closely related to striped bass, although neither is actually a true bass.
Within each of these categories, there are many different species of bass. Largemouth bass are the most widely distributed, as they can be found in many freshwater and brackish water habitats across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Smallmouth bass are found in clear waters of the Northern United States and Canada, while spotted bass are found in the Southern United States.
Habitat and Behavior
The type of water where a Bass lives influences its behavior. Largemouth Bass prefer warmer water and tend to flock to areas of cover, like weeds, logs, and rocks. Smallmouth Bass prefer cooler, clearer water and often school up in open water.
Bass have also been known to be a territorial species. They will defend their territory from fish of the same species, but they will also actively hunt for food. Largemouth Bass are generally bottom-dwellers and will feed on fish, crayfish, insects, and any other aquatic life they can find. Smallmouth Bass have a varied diet of fish, insects, and crustaceans.
Catching Bass
anglers are always looking for the best way to catch Bass. As previously mentioned, the best way to catch Bass depends largely on the species, the season, and the area, but there are a few universal tips that work across the board.
During the summer, anglers can catch Bass by trolling crank baits, spinner baits, or worms in the top 12 feet of water. In the spring and fall, anglers prefer to use soft plastics and crank baits, while in the winter months they should look for suspending lures.
To draw Bass out from cover, anglers should look for cover in the form of structure, like weeds, rocks, or logs. They should then cast their bait in front of the cover and retrieve it very slowly, as Bass tend to be slower to strike during the colder months.
The Best Lures for Bass Fishing
When it comes to choosing the right lure for Bass fishing, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Firstly, anglers should consider the type of water they’re fishing in. Is it clear or murky? Are there any weeds present? What is the fish species? All of these factors will influence the type of lure an angler should use.
If fishing for largemouth Bass, anglers should look for lures that mimic their natural prey, like crawfish or minnows. Crankbaits, jigs, and spinner baits are popular for this purpose and can be used in clear or murky water.
Smallmouth Bass prefer crawfish and other small baits, so lures like jerkbaits, tubes, and drop-shot rigs are often used. In clear water, anglers can also use light-colored soft plastics, as Bass respond well to the presence of color.
Time and Place to Fish for Bass
Time of day is also an important factor when fishing for Bass, as they tend to feed during the early morning and late in the evening. During these hours, Bass are more likely to be actively searching for food.
The location is also important. During the warmer months of the year, Bass will generally be found in shallow water, near the shore or any other type of structure. During the cooler months, they will head for deeper water.
These are just a few of the many tips I can provide when it comes to Bass fishing. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and anglers should adjust their techniques based on the species, season, and location. With the right techniques and lures, anglers can enjoy great success when Bass fishing.