Bass Fishing Tips in the Fall

Natural forage

By the fall, bass are particularly attuned to the natural forage in the bodies of water in which they live. In some areas, that natural forage is bluegills or other sunfish, while shad are the dominant forage in other bodies of water. Shad are more prevalent in southern water bodies, while sunfish are more prevalent in northern water bodies. During the fall, anglers should choose lures that are similar in size and shape to the main forage base in the body of water in which they are fishing.

Lure choices

Many lures will work during the fall, so long as their size and shape is in keeping with the natural forage of the water body. A good plan is to have a quick-moving lure such as a lipless crankbait or spinnerbait tied to one rod, and a slow-moving, saturation bait like a plastic worm or jig and pig tied to another rod. The quick-moving baits are good for locating active fish, while the slower baits can be used to fish thoroughly through an area. Keep in mind that bass are often schooled together in the fall, so when you catch one fish, it is likely you will be able to catch more.

Locations

Two of the key fall locations for bass fishing are areas that have green vegetation, and shallow-water areas where there is deep water nearby. These areas offer bass a variety of feeding and resting options, and the fish will congregate on structural elements such as flooded timber, points and rocks. The bass often will hang out in the deeper water, and then move into the shallows to feed. Throughout the year, bass are attracted to aquatic vegetation, and the fall is no different. During the fall, vegetation begins to die off, and the dying vegetation consumes oxygen. Because of the declining levels of oxygen, bass will vacate these areas and move to deeper water where green vegetation still exists. Deep stands of green vegetation can hold large schools of bass, especially late in the fall. It is worthwhile to search for areas of green vegetation.

Look for schooling bass

Schooling bass can be found in a variety of areas at this time of year, but watch the surface of the water for any signs that bass are feeding on the top. You may see ripples, or bass jumping out of the water. It is likely the bass have a school of bait fish cornered at the surface of the water. Cast a topwater bait, or a lipless or shallow-running crankbait into the immediate area when this situation occurs. While the bite is not likely to last for long, the action can be fast and furious.