Largemouth Bass

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Largemouth bass, renowned for their aggressive strikes and impressive fighting abilities, can be found in various bodies of water across the Central/Mountain region of the United States. Anglers in this region have the opportunity to target largemouth bass in a variety of aquatic environments, including lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and ponds. While the following bodies of water are popular for largemouth bass fishing in this region, there are numerous other locations where these prized gamefish can be found:
Colorado: Pueblo Reservoir, Cherry Creek Reservoir, Horsetooth Reservoir.
Idaho: Lake Coeur d'Alene, Brownlee Reservoir, Payette Lake.
Utah: Lake Powell, Utah Lake, Yuba Reservoir.
Wyoming: Glendo Reservoir, Boysen Reservoir, Pathfinder Reservoir.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Weedy Ponds: Largemouth bass can be found in the thick weeds, lily pads, and other vegetation that grows along the edges of ponds. They use these areas for cover and to ambush prey.
Shallow Flats: Largemouth bass can be found in shallow flats and other shallow areas of a lake or reservoir, where they can be caught using topwater lures or by sight-fishing.
Points and Drop-offs: Largemouth bass can be found near points and drop-offs, where they can be caught using deep-diving crankbaits or jigs.
Backwaters and Coves: Largemouth bass can be found in the backwaters and coves of a lake or reservoir, where they can be caught using finesse techniques such as a Texas rig, shaky head, or a drop-shot rig.
Submerged Timber: Largemouth bass can be found around submerged trees, stumps, and other types of wood cover. They use these structures as cover and to ambush prey.
Riprap, Concrete, Rocks: Largemouth bass can be found around riprap, rocks and concrete structures, such as bridges, retaining walls, and dams. They use these structures for cover and to ambush prey.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, largemouth bass move into shallow water for spawning. Look for them near shallow bays, coves, and areas with submerged vegetation. Use lures such as spinnerbaits, plastic worms, and crankbaits to imitate baitfish or provoke a reaction strike. Slow presentations around cover can be effective, as bass are protective of their nests during this time.

SUMMER

In the summer, largemouth bass seek cooler water and shade. Look for them near deeper structure, such as submerged rocks, drop-offs, or submerged trees. Early mornings and evenings can be prime times to target bass, as they are more active during low-light conditions. Topwater lures, soft plastics, and jigs can be effective in enticing strikes from largemouth bass during this season.

FALL

As fall approaches, largemouth bass go through a feeding frenzy in preparation for winter. They move into shallow water to feed on baitfish. Look for them near points, submerged vegetation, and creek channels. Use a variety of lures, including crankbaits, jerkbaits, and swimbaits, to mimic the movements of baitfish. Focus on covering water and experimenting with different retrieves to find the most productive pattern.

WINTER

During the winter months, largemouth bass become less active and tend to move to deeper, more stable water. Look for them near structure such as rock piles, submerged timber, or ledges. Slow presentations with jigs, plastic worms, or finesse techniques can entice lethargic bass to bite. Focus on slow and subtle movements to mimic natural prey items.

Largemouth bass are opportunistic predators and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Effective bait options for largemouth bass fishing include plastic worms, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, jigs, topwater lures, and live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers. Experiment with different colors, sizes, and presentations to match the feeding preferences of the bass in your fishing area. Pay attention to the water clarity and adjust your bait selection accordingly.