Early Fall Bass Fishing Tips

Study Migratory Patterns and Use a Fishing Thermometer

The cooler days of autumn prompt bass to shift their territory toward the back of coves and inlets, further upstream and generally from deep water to shallow. When the water temperature begins to drop into the mid-50s Fahrenheit, look for fish in shallow water. Crankbaits, buzzbaits and rubber worms will continue to produce good results in shallow water. Try silver and white colors.

Match Lure Size to Fish Size

Although it may seem counter-intuitive, big fish will continue to have big appetites in the fall months, so a larger lure will produce larger bass. Although bass metabolism begins to slow down as the water temperature drops, larger bass will still require more to eat than their smaller, younger siblings. The same holds true for their prey. Baitfish hatched in the spring will have reached full size by the fall, so the minnows and lures you threw in the water in May will bear little resemblance to what the big bass are eating in October.

Keep Your Eyes on the Skies

Bass are more active in the fall during overcast days, when the water may be murky and predators have a better opportunity of sneaking up on prey. Fish the shallow waters where baitfish dart near the banks.
Start the day with topwater baits along banks, floating vegetation and beneath tree limbs jutting over the water. Switch to soft, plastic worms at midday when the sun is directly overhead and the bass are getting lazy. Try crankbaits and buzzbaits in the later afternoon and early evening hours.

In Late Fall, Head for Deep Water

Bass will shift back to the depths in late October and early November after fattening themselves on baitfish in the shallows during early autumn. You'll need a boar or a baitcasting combo with fair amount of line on the reel to reach you quarry. Jigs, plastic worms rigged Carolina-style with twin hooks embedded in the bait, and spinnerbaits can produce good fish in late fall.