As an avid angler, I know that spring is the perfect time to catch bass. But, it’s not just about having the right gear and technique, it’s also about choosing the right lure. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use. That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide to spring bass lures, to help you make the most out of your fishing trip.
Introduction to Spring Bass Fishing and Lures
Springtime is when bass are at their most active, making it the perfect season to catch them. As the water temperature starts to rise, bass become more aggressive, and they start to feed more frequently. This makes it an ideal time to use lures that mimic their prey.
Lures are artificial baits that come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. They are designed to imitate the behavior of the prey that bass feed on, such as crawfish, minnows, and worms. By using the right lure, you can increase your chances of catching a bass.
Understanding the Behavior of Spring Bass
Before we dive into the types of lures to use, it’s important to understand the behavior of spring bass. During the spring, bass move from deeper waters to shallower areas in search of food and warmer temperatures. They also start to spawn during this time, which makes them more aggressive and territorial.
Bass tend to feed more in the morning and late afternoon, so it’s best to plan your fishing trip accordingly. They also prefer areas with structure, such as rocks, logs, and weed beds. By understanding their behavior, you can choose the right lure and technique to target them effectively.
Types of Spring Bass Lures and Their Characteristics
There are many types of lures available, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of spring bass lures:
Crankbaits
Crankbaits are hard-bodied lures that resemble baitfish. They come in different shapes and sizes, and some even have a built-in rattle to attract bass. They are perfect for covering large areas of water and can be used in both shallow and deep waters.
The Strike King KVD Square Bill is a great option for fishing in shallow water. It has a square bill that deflects off cover, which triggers a reaction strike from bass. For deeper water, the Rapala Shad Rap is a great option. It has a tight wobbling action that imitates the behavior of baitfish in cold water.
Spinnerbaits
Spinnerbaits are versatile lures that can be used in a variety of conditions. They have a spinning blade that creates vibrations and flashes, which attracts bass. They are perfect for fishing in murky or stained water, and can be used to cover a lot of water quickly.
The Booyah Blade Spinnerbait is a great option for fishing in murky or stained water. It has a double willow blade that creates a lot of flash and vibration, which attracts bass. For clear water, the Strike King Premier Plus Spinnerbait is a great option. It has a Colorado and Willow blade combination that creates a unique vibration that attracts bass.
Jigs
Jigs are versatile lures that come in many shapes and sizes. They are perfect for fishing in areas with structure, such as rocks or logs. Jigs can be tipped with a variety of trailers, such as worms or crawfish, to imitate the behavior of bass prey.
The Strike King Bitsy Bug Jig is a great option for fishing in shallow water. It has a compact design that imitates the behavior of crawfish, which is a favorite food of bass. For deeper water, the Strike King Tour Grade Football Jig is a great option. It has a football-shaped head that allows it to bounce along the bottom, imitating the behavior of baitfish.
Plastic Worms
Plastic worms are soft-bodied lures that come in many colors and sizes. They are perfect for imitating the behavior of worms, which is a favorite food of bass. They are versatile and can be rigged in many ways, such as Texas-rigged or Carolina-rigged.
The Zoom Trick Worm is a great option for fishing in shallow water. It has a subtle action that imitates the behavior of worms, which is a favorite food of bass. For deeper water, the Zoom Magnum Trick Worm is a great option. It has a larger size and a faster fall rate, which helps it to reach the bottom quicker.
Topwater Lures
Topwater lures are designed to imitate the behavior of prey that is on the surface of the water. They can be used to create a commotion on the surface, which attracts bass. Topwater lures are perfect for fishing in calm water and can be used to target aggressive bass.
The Heddon Super Spook Jr. is a great option for fishing in clear water. It has a walk-the-dog action that creates a lot of commotion on the surface, which attracts bass. For murky or stained water, the Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg Jr. is a great option. It has a unique rattling system that creates a lot of noise and vibration, which attracts bass.
Techniques for Fishing with Spring Bass Lures
Now that we’ve covered the different types of lures and the best options for different conditions, let’s take a look at some techniques for fishing with spring bass lures.
Slow and Steady Retrieve
A slow and steady retrieve is a great technique for fishing with crankbaits, plastic worms, and jigs. This imitates the behavior of baitfish or prey that is moving slowly, which is a favorite food of bass. By keeping a slow and steady retrieve, you can entice a bass to strike.
Jerk and Pause Retrieve
A jerk and pause retrieve is a great technique for fishing with topwater lures. This imitates the behavior of prey that is struggling on the surface, which attracts bass. By jerking the lure and then pausing, you can create a commotion on the surface that entices a bass to strike.
Bounce Along the Bottom
Bouncing a jig or plastic worm along the bottom is a great technique for fishing in deeper water. This imitates the behavior of baitfish that are feeding on the bottom, which attracts bass. By bouncing the lure along the bottom, you can create a reaction strike from a bass.
How to Rig Your Spring Bass Lures for Maximum Effectiveness
Rigging your lures correctly can make a big difference in your success. Here are some tips for rigging your spring bass lures for maximum effectiveness.
Texas-rigged Plastic Worms
A Texas-rigged plastic worm is a great option for fishing in areas with structure. To rig it correctly, insert the hook through the head of the worm and then slide it through the worm until it comes out about a quarter of an inch from the tail. Then, slide a bullet weight onto the line and tie on a hook. This will allow the worm to bounce along the bottom and imitate the behavior of crawfish.
Carolina-rigged Plastic Worms
A Carolina-rigged plastic worm is a great option for fishing in deeper water. To rig it correctly, slide a bullet weight onto the line and tie on a swivel. Then, tie on a leader and a hook, and slide a plastic worm onto the hook. This will allow the worm to bounce along the bottom and imitate the behavior of baitfish.
Weighted Jigs
Weighted jigs are great for fishing in areas with structure. To rig it correctly, slide a bullet weight onto the line and tie on a hook. Then, slide the jig onto the hook and add a trailer, such as a crawfish or worm. This will allow the jig to bounce along the bottom and imitate the behavior of bass prey.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Spring Bass Lures
Even with the right gear and technique, there are some common mistakes that anglers make when using spring bass lures. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
Using the Wrong Lure
Using the wrong lure can be a big mistake. It’s important to choose the right lure based on the conditions and the behavior of the bass.
Fishing Too Quickly
Fishing too quickly can be a mistake, especially in colder water. Bass are less active in colder water, so it’s important to slow down your retrieve.
Not Paying Attention to the Water Temperature
Not paying attention to the water temperature can be a mistake. Bass are more active in warmer water, so it’s important to adjust your technique based on the temperature.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, spring is the perfect time to catch bass. By understanding the behavior of bass and choosing the right lure and technique, you can increase your chances of a successful catch. Remember to experiment with different lures and techniques, and pay attention to the conditions and behavior of the bass. With the right approach, you can have a great day on the water and catch some big bass.
