Bass fishing remains excellent, but November marks the onset of significant water temperature changes. Patterns will shift depending on the region, and adapting lure choices is crucial. Here’s a detailed look at the top lures for the month ahead.
Glide Baits
November offers prime conditions for glide bait fishing. Even as water temperatures fall below 65°F, bass continue to chase larger meals near the surface. Glide baits create interactive and exciting fishing opportunities.
For beginners, a 7-inch glide bait, like the Cull Shad, provides a manageable introduction. It offers versatile action, from quick chops to slow, wide glides—perfect for autumn. For larger presentations, the 9-inch 6th Sense Draw delivers a slow, broad glide that entices cooler-water bass.
Spinnerbaits
Spinnerbaits continue to shine in November. Bass feed heavily in shallow waters, making spinnerbaits ideal for targeting these active fish. Start with a double willow leaf spinnerbait early in the month, waking it beneath the surface to attract schooling bass.
As temperatures drop through the 60s and into the 50s, transition to tandem Colorado/willow leaf spinnerbaits for shallower waters. When temperatures fall below 52°F, a double Colorado spinnerbait becomes the preferred choice. This adaptability ensures spinnerbaits remain effective throughout the month.
Berkley KREJ
The Berkley KREJ is gaining popularity for November bass fishing. Initially viewed skeptically, it has proven effective, particularly for schooling bass. Its self-animating action, requiring no additional movement, makes it a potent tool.
During recent tests on the Chattahoochee River, the KREJ consistently attracted bass, even in challenging conditions. Its ability to draw strikes without extensive manipulation makes it a valuable asset for targeting finicky fish.
Crankbaits
Crankbaits are essential throughout November, with various types excelling at different points in the month. From lipless to squarebill to Shad Rap styles, each has a role. Bass migrate along steep banks and flats, prime areas for crankbait presentations.
Favorites include the Jackall Bling, SPRO Little John, and Strike King Red Eye Shad. These lures adapt well to changing water temperatures. As conditions cool, switching to finesse-style crankbaits like the Shad Rap ensures consistent success.
Ned Rigs and Finesse Jigs
November reintroduces bottom baits like Ned rigs and finesse jigs. These shine in colder conditions, especially in clear, rocky fisheries with smallmouth or spotted bass. A Jewel Tactical Finesse HD jig performs well in temperatures down to the lower 50s.
Ned rigs often surpass finesse jigs in effectiveness, particularly when fishing is tough. Pairing a Picasso Rhino Ned Head with a Z-Man Finesse TRD creates a reliable combination for enticing reluctant bites.
Regional Insights
Texas:
In Central Texas, anglers focus on the shortest, deepest main lake pockets or the farthest back creek areas. Rock transitions and isolated cover are key targets, with moving baits like buzzbaits, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits being most effective.
Midwest:
As water temperatures drop below 50°F, Midwest anglers turn to blade baits, deep-diving jerkbaits, and finesse football jigs. Small swimbaits fished slowly over hard bottom areas are also productive as bass move to wintering locations.
Northeast:
Unseasonably warm conditions maintain late-summer patterns. Swimming jigs and underspins work well over weed lines, while tubes and blade baits excel during cold snaps. Saltwater anglers target striped bass with needlefish plugs and topwater baits offshore.
Adapting to November’s changing conditions with these lures and strategies ensures continued bass fishing success throughout the month.
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
