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Strike Zones
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Strike zones
can be large or small, depending on the time of year, the temperature
of the water, and the spawning season. Paying attention to exactly where
you feel your first hit is the key to recognizing the general area of
your strike zone. With that, and the knowledge of typical seasonal patterns
of bass, you can coax the big ones to bite every time.. well, almost!
Once you
have a general idea of where your bass is striking, remember that your
strike zone may only be a few feet in any direction. Try presenting your
bait from different directions and angles. If your are fishing off of
an object, begin working the front or deepest side.
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Spring
This is when
your strike zone is the largest. During this pre-spawn timeframe, the
fish are almost begging for something to strike. Use topwater baits in
shallow areas where the bass are most likely to be during this time. Faster
lures are best, such as a spinnerbait or crankbait. Try tying your line
directly to the lure, leaving the knot on the bottom. This will make the
nose tilt upwards, allowing it to jump along the water faster for warm
water catching. Imagine yourself the baitfish - flee quickly, bumping
into
objects.
When the
bass begin to spawn, they lose interest in feeding. This is when your
strike zone will be at its smallest. Some feel bass should not be fished
when they are on the beds.
As summer
approaches and the water becomes warm, so does the body temperature of
the bass. They become lethargic and swim deep to cooler waters. Use baits
that will go deep.
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Fall
Bass are beginning to move to channels to feed in preparation
for winter. They are active, with a much greater strike zone with spawning
season complete. Again, use fast lures, such as spinnerbaits, crankbaits,
chuggers and propbaits. This is an excellent time to try topwaters, which
can produce strikes that are lightening in a bottle.
Mid-Winter
Your strike zone is smaller so start with spoons and jigs, using a
vertical
presentation. Cold water also means a cold body temperature for the bass
- use slower retrieves during this time.
