Tips on Catching Creek Bass in the Summer

Downsize Baits and Lures

The saying goes that big baits catch big fish, but bass in creeks are more likely to strike a downsized offering. Stream smallmouths are accustomed to eating crayfish, insects and small minnows, and baits that match their natural forage typically outproduce the big, chunky lures that you might throw in a lake or reservoir. Try jigs, crankbaits and soft plastics in natural-looking shades of brown, olive and black and fish them with a subtle, lifelike action. Live crayfish, minnows and nightcrawlers also excel in streams.

Get Wet

Low water makes summertime ideal for wading, and this tried-and true tactic for trout fishing is just as effective for creek bass. You can wear expensive waders if you want, but a pair of shorts and some old sneakers are really all you need. To avoid spooking fish, stay in shallow water and move slowly and quietly, sliding your feet along the bottom. Also, start downstream and work your way up. Stream currents carry a lot of things downstream, including the mud you kick up and the sounds you make.

Cast to Cover

Smallmouth bass in creeks tend to stay near some type of cover, especially when they are actively feeding. Rocks and boulders, fallen logs, undercut banks and bridge abutments are usually productive. Deep pools often hold the greatest number of bass in summertime, especially pools that are directly downstream of fast-moving water. Smallmouths typically congregate at the upstream end of the pool, facing into current, waiting for crayfish and other aquatic critters that get caught up in the fast water to come tumbling right down into their mouths.

Target Largemouths

In most creeks, smallmouth bass outnumber largemouth bass by a considerable margin. But largemouths are also present in many creeks, and when they are they typically gather in fairly predictable areas. While smallmouths thrive in current and prefer cool, clear water, largemouths have a preference for warmer, stiller water. In creeks and rivers, you can usually find them in the slowest-moving sections. Backwater areas are best, especially those where the current is slow enough for significant vegetation to grow. Largemouths prefer slightly larger baits, and will strike jigs, topwaters, soft plastic worms and spinnerbaits.