Spring is one of the most exciting times of the year for bass fishing. As water temperatures rise, bass become more active and begin feeding aggressively across different depths. This increased activity creates opportunities to catch fish using a wide range of techniques, but success often depends on adjusting presentations to match changing conditions.
Moving baits such as crankbaits and spinnerbaits are popular choices during the spring months because they allow anglers to cover water quickly and locate active fish. However, when water temperatures drop below 60 degrees or a cold front moves through, bass often become less aggressive. In these conditions, slowing down presentations can make a big difference. Soft plastics and jigs are effective options, but hard baits can still produce results when used with the right approach.
Fishing from top to bottom in the water column is a proven way to stay on fish throughout the season. Understanding how to target each level can help anglers consistently catch bass during the prespawn and spawn.
Work the Bottom for Staging Bass
When bass are holding near the bottom in cooler water, slower techniques are key. A finesse jig paired with a soft plastic trailer can be dragged along the bottom to imitate crawfish. Another effective tactic is using a medium-diving crankbait in crawfish colors. Adding a little weight to the lure helps it maintain contact with the bottom, where it can deflect off rocks and stir up silt.
This presentation mimics natural prey and often triggers strikes from staging bass. A steady retrieve works well along rocky banks, while occasional pauses around isolated rock piles can entice hesitant fish. This approach is especially productive during the prespawn and after cold fronts push fish slightly deeper.
Trigger Explosive Strikes on Top
As temperatures rise, topwater fishing becomes increasingly effective. Even in cooler conditions, bass can be coaxed into striking surface lures, especially in clear water and low-light conditions.
A subtle approach is often best. Slow retrieves with minimal surface disturbance can draw strikes from bass that are suspended or holding near shallow cover. Calm water helps fish locate the lure, and long casts prevent spooking wary bass. This technique can also be effective when bedding fish ignore traditional bottom presentations.
Use Suspended Baits to Agitate Spawners
During the spawn, bass can be highly protective of their nests. Suspending stickbaits are an excellent choice for provoking reaction strikes. Their larger profile imitates a threat, making them hard for guarding bass to ignore.
Casting beyond the target and working the lure into the strike zone allows it to hover over the bed. Subtle movements, such as lightly shaking the rod, can make the bait appear alive and trigger aggressive responses from fish that are otherwise reluctant to bite.
Get Out There and Dial It In
Spring bass fishing rewards anglers who stay adaptable and fish multiple depths. By combining bottom, mid-depth, and topwater techniques, it becomes easier to locate active fish and respond to changing conditions.
Grab a few different lures, experiment with retrieves, and spend time on the water this season. The more techniques that are tested, the better the results will be. Now is the perfect time to hit the water and put these spring bass strategies to work.
Image/Source: mysterytacklebox
