Late Summer Bass Fishing Tips

Look for Bass in Shallow Water

As the dog days of summer start to fade into the cooler temperatures of fall, bass begin to change their behavior. The cooler weather starts to push bass into deeper waters. More active bass, however, will stay in more shallow depths during late summer. These bass will usually strike at a lure more readily than those fish that have headed to deeper areas.

Look for Structures in Shallow Water

When fishing shallow areas during late summer, pay close attention to man-made structures like docks and bridges, as well as fallen trees and other natural structures. Bass that are in shallow water tend to look for this protection. Boat docks and bridge supports are often good places to fish for bass in late summer.

Don't Be Afraid to Move Deeper

Although shallow waters often hold late-summer bass, the fish don't stay in these areas as long as they do during the warmer months. If the bass aren't biting in the shallows, move a little deeper as the weather gets cooler. Late-summer bass will move more quickly to ledges and drop-offs, which will require more patience and a move away from topwater lures.

Use Larger Lures

By the time late summer/early fall arrives, the food that bass are chasing has grown since the earlier part of the year. As a result, it is often best to use larger lures to attract the more sluggish late-summer bass.