Tips on Bass Fishing From the Bank

Locate likely areas

The best banks for shoreline fishing are in close proximity to bass-holding cover, like emergent and submerged vegetation, brush and fallen timber. These areas do not have to be right on the bank, but they should be within casting distance of where you are standing. Areas with a combination of such cover and nearby deep water are particularly prime spots. To find stretches of shoreline with deep water nearby, check out a map of the lake or river you are fishing. Then check those places to see if they have the proper cover. Also, shoreline structure like points that extend into deeper water also hold fish.

Use the right equipment

While many varieties of rods and reels will work for bank fishing, a short fishing rod--one that is six feet long or less--is advantageous. Some of the best areas for bank fishing are uninhabited, so there may be large amounts of trees, grass or brush that you will have to contend with. While a short rod reduces the distance you can cast, it also helps ensure that your lures do not get snagged as you cast.

Carry a variety of lures

Use the same shallow-water lures you would use if you were in a boat. Casting spinnerbaits, topwater baits and lipless or shallow-running crankbaits will help you locate active fish. When the fish do not respond to such lures, or if the cover is too heavy to use them, cast a saturation bait like a plastic worm or jig and pig into shoreline cover. Let the lure sink, then work it back to the bank.

Stay mobile

Keep moving until you find bass that are willing to bite. Bass oftentimes move in and out of the shallow water near the bank--especially when the water temperatures are warm and the days are hot--so having a variety of areas in which to fish is helpful. If you have been fishing a spot for about 30 minutes or longer without catching a bass, it is probably time to move.

Consider hip boots or waders

Hip boots or waders certainly are not a critical component of fishing for bass from the bank, but wearing them can help you by allowing you to walk into the water. Doing so allows you to cover more water--especially the water more towards the middle of the lake. Hip boots and waders also gives you the chance to cast from a different angle. There are times when bass will hit a lure that is presented from one angle, but not another.