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Bass Fishing Basics
from: Maxx Sports GuidesThere are two main categories of bass -- largemouth bass and small mouth bass. These two types are similar, yet each has its own special likes that set it apart from the other. Smallmouth bass are popular game fish because of their widespread availability and because they're fun to catch. Largemouth bass technically belong to the sunfish family and are classified as warm water fish. They're often found in weedy lakes or ponds with plenty of cover.
Largemouth bass are greenish or tan in color with a slightly darker back. They're often thought of as the least selective feeders because they eat a large variety in their diet. They feed on small fish, crayfish, aquatic insects and larvae, small frogs, worms, leaches, snails, turtles, salamanders and even small mice and snakes.
Most largemouth bass grow to be about 5 pounds and live about 8 years. In warmer climates they can grow larger, up to 10 pounds or so. Largemouth bass are most active in water temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees. They prefer dim lighting and will hide under dense cover during bright sunlight. When it's cloudy they roam and eat freely all day. An impending storm can produce a feeding frenzy. Bass activity declines after a cold front passes.
Fishing for bass requires versatility. Sometimes they like to feed on top of the water while other times they prefer feeding well below the water. All types of lures can be successfully used at different times. Plastic worms are best when the weather is colder and the bass are lethargic. Subsurface plugs entice largemouth with their wiggle or vibration. When bass are hiding in heavy cover spinner bait is a good choice. Jigging can also be done for largemouth, which allows you to work your bait with a rapid up and down motion.
Smallmouth bass are found in most lakes and ponds as wells as many rivers and streams. They don't mind locations with water movement. They like a hard, rock or gravel bottom. While smallmouth eat a variety of things their favorite is often crayfish. Their diet also consists of small frogs, insects, minnows, and other small fish. They eat foods that are smaller than those of the largemouth bass.
Smallmouth bass are aggressive fish, often trying to steal food from each other. They prefer smaller sized lures and baits than those used on largemouth. They will hit on many types of lures depending on the water conditions and time of year. They like many types of lures as including minnows, spinner baits and top water lures. If fishing is slow, try using live baits instead of lures. Try crayfish, larvae, night crawlers or leaches. Most fishermen use the catch and release method for bass to encourage continued growth.
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