Knowing the right structure to look for and exactly where bass like to congregate in the fall, right up to ice out, can be your ticket to landing some big fish and enjoying the fall season.
You are checking out small natural lakes with cooling water, and looking for good grass and weed lines. Find fall groups of large and smallmouth bass.
First, look for the big flat and an inside turn, KVD explains to you here exactly what to look for. Michigan pro Kevin VanDam tells you where to look for late-season bass on small natural lakes during the late fall.
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How to catch bass in the fall: Tips to locate bass
As the seasons change and we approach hunting season, many anglers shift their focus to fishing. This time of year, smaller natural lakes offer excellent opportunities, particularly for targeting largemouth bass.
Targeting Grass-Filled Lakes
Lakes with healthy grass lines and dense weed beds are prime locations for fall fishing. Key vegetation types to look for include milfoil and cabbage.
These areas provide shelter and food for bass, making them prime hunting grounds. Focus on lakes with thick grass beds and expansive flats, as these often harbor large schools of bass.
Understanding Inside Turns
Bass in the fall often congregate in specific areas known as inside turns. These are spots where a grass flat or point curves closer to the shore, creating a natural ambush zone for bass.
For example, if a grassy point extends into the lake, the corner where the flat meets the bank is a hotspot. Spend time locating these subtle structures as they often hold large groups of fish.
Choosing the Right Baits
The clarity of the water plays a significant role in bait selection. Here are two go-to baits that perform exceptionally well during fall:
1. Jigs
A jig is a reliable choice for targeting bass around grass lines. Opt for a compact jig with a trimmed skirt and a smaller trailer.
Choose a trailer with minimal action, such as a Strike King KVD Chunk, rather than something with an aggressive movement like a rage craw. Stick with a 3/8 or 1/2-ounce jig for a controlled fall, as it entices strikes effectively.
2. Tubes
For clearer waters or more scattered grass, a tube bait is ideal. Its erratic fall mimics natural prey like bluegill and crawfish, making it irresistible to bass.
Use a 3/16-ounce weight for a slow, spiraling descent and pair it with an exposed open hook. Fish it on an 8-pound test fluorocarbon line, casting it into the grass and snapping it free to trigger strikes as it falls back down.
Techniques for Success
When fishing these baits, focus on letting them sink slowly into the grass before popping them out. This motion often triggers bites as the bait falls back into the vegetation. Pay attention to the depth, typically between 6 and 15 feet, as bass are likely to be held in these zones.
Finding and Capitalizing on Schools
Bass in the fall tends to group tightly, often in small, concentrated areas. You might fish several inside turns without success, only to stumble upon a mother lode where you can catch 25 to 30 bass from a spot no larger than your boat. Be persistent, as the reward is well worth the effort.
Fish Until Ice-Out
The strategies and techniques outlined here can be effective until the lakes freeze over. Fall fishing offers an incredible chance to land trophy largemouth bass, so take advantage of this time to explore small natural lakes and refine your approach.
