Fall Bass Fishing by Sean Obrien
Along with the trout fishing in the fall, the bass fishing really begins to pick up as the season’s change. There are a lot of factors involved in this, some of which include time of day, weather, water temperature, and perhaps most importantly, baitfish. Bass fishing techniques change with the seasons, and we will detail some fall and colder water temperature tactics that can increase your fall bass fishing ability.
As the hot summer months begin to cool down, the water temperature begins to drop. This creates a situation where the bass begin to come fish will begin to chase more, and they can use this to their advantage. Another additionally factor the colder water temperature brings is the fish closer to the shore, as the shallow water is usually warmer. The baitfish also congregate in the shallows, feasting on the algae that is ever present in most freshwater ponds and lakes. Baitfish school up in the fall, which makes it easier for the bass to grab mouthfuls of them, and allows the angler to follow the baitfish to the bass. Throw whatever you are fishing with into schools of baitfish, or where you think the baitfish are, and you will more often than not get hit. Another gauge of where the fish may be is the appearance of birds – they tend to congregate and feed on the baitfish as well. Keep aware and hit the spots that appear to have these activities occurring and you will be well on your way to cleaning up with your fall bass fishing catch.
It is more important than at any other point in any season that the angler learns to read the water of whatever area he is fishing. In the afternoon, when the water is calm and glassy, topwater lures will attract action, as the more aggressive fish will come up to strike. Not much better than to get a topwater strike of a big bass when the water is calm and clear. You can still throw your worms out at structures and probably get a bite, as the more aggressive and active bass will be hitting everything. Another spot to look at is creek entries into the lake or pond, as this is where the baitfish will run, and the bass will follow. These spots are perfect for experimenting with all kinds of different lures and really determining what works and what doesn’t.
Sometimes, what has worked in a particular spot in the spring will continue to work in the fall, but for the most part, switching it up will always be recommended. By the fall, these fish have seen a ton of bait, and being a little different could get a hit when nothing else is working. Throw everything you can and utilize the entire water column in your pursuit of fall bass. As the days get shorter and colder, enjoy every second that you can outdoors and throwing lures, because when the snow piles up you will be wishing you had these opportunities.
