As summer takes hold, water temperatures begin to rise, and bass behaviour shifts. Warmer water impacts bass activity, pushing them to seek shade, deeper waters, or areas with cooler currents. To maximize your success, it’s essential to use the right lures for these changing conditions. Here’s a guide to the top lures for summer bass fishing and how to use them effectively during the summer heat.
- Deep-Diving Crankbaits for Targeting Bass in Deeper Waters
- As temperatures climb, bass often move to deeper, cooler waters to find relief from the heat.
- Use deep-diving crankbaits to reach the depths where bass are hiding. Pay attention to areas near ledges, drop-offs, or submerged structures where bass like to ambush.
- Choose crankbaits that can reach depths of 10-20 feet, in natural colours like baitfish, crabs, or kurper to match local prey.
- Soft Plastic Worms and Craws for Versatile Presentations
- Soft plastics allow for a slower, more natural presentation, which can entice bites from bass even in warmer, pressured waters.
- Try Texas rigs or Carolina rigs, which are ideal for working along the bottom or around structures where bass may be seeking shade.
- Stock up on soft plastics in dark colours, such as black, blue, or green pumpkin. Go for natural shapes like worms, crawfish, or creature baits that blend in with underwater environments.
- Topwater Lures for Early Morning and Late Evening Strikes
- During the cooler hours of the morning or evening, bass are more active near the surface. This makes topwater lures a great choice for explosive action.
- Cast around cover, near lily pads, or around docks where bass might be lurking. Keep your retrieve slow to maximize action and make it irresistible for bass.
- Frog lures, buzzbaits, and poppers are top picks for these conditions. Look for lures with natural patterns, like frogs or baitfish, to appeal to summer bass.
- Spinnerbaits to Cover More Water Quickly
- Spinnerbaits are excellent for covering water and finding active fish, especially when searching near vegetation or submerged structures.
- Vary your retrieval speed and use a steady retrieve to create vibration and flash, making it easier for bass to detect your lure.
- Look for spinnerbaits with willow blades for extra flash or Colorado blades for more vibration. Silver and white are great colour options for clearer water, while chartreuse works well in murkier conditions.
- Jigs for Fishing Around Thick Cover
- Jigs are perfect for fishing heavy cover, where bass seek shade and ambush prey during hot summer days.
- Skip jigs under docks or around thick vegetation, as they can penetrate cover well. Use a jig with a craw or creature trailer to give a realistic look.
- Black and blue jigs or green pumpkin jigs are popular choices. Pair your jig with a matching trailer in a similar colour for a cohesive presentation.
Tips for Summer Success
- Keep an eye on the water temperature and adjust your lure depth accordingly.
- Fish slower during the hottest parts of the day, when bass may be less active.
- Don’t forget sunscreen and hydration gear, as the summer sun can be intense for both you and the fish.
Summer fishing calls for versatility, patience, and strategic lure choices to overcome the challenges of hot water and picky bass. By using these tried-and-true lures and techniques, you’ll be able to stay one step ahead and enjoy a productive summer season. Head to our store to pick up these essential lures and let us know which are your favourites for the heat.