FALL IS IN THE AIR!

       Fall is in the air. The temps are dropping, the leaves are starting to change an the morning air is crisp. Most are thinking about deer season, pumpkin spice, and boots with the fur!! Myself and many others have bass fishing on the brain. The transition to fall is my favorite time to chase and catch big numbers of fish. As the water begins to cool. The baitfish begin to move in big schools to the back of the creeks and pockets. And of course the bass are following and gorging themselves.

      Top water is one of the most thrilling ways to catch these chasing bass. And on most days with the right conditions the top water bite can last all day. I prefer a buzzbait along laydowns, grass, pads and riprap.  Then in the middle of the creeks and pockets I like to throw  walking style baits such as a spooks.  Some other favorites include the Pop R and of course the frog which can be deadly this time of the year.

    Plastics are a great option when the topwater may not be working as great. A fluke worked in the same areas should be a staple in your line up.  Another deadly technique is the flick shake dropped on semi slack line in the middle or edges of the bait balls. I prefer a senko but any similar style bait will work.  But when the baitfish are down and conditions are tough. I like to flip a jig around cover and creek channels with stumps and rock. 

    Another great way to catch fall bass are on hard baits. Such as rattle traps, and jerk baits.  With jerkbaits its important to try different snap cadence through several cast in order to find out what they react to the best.  A squarebill and a medium diving cranks works great around cover too. You can use regular body's but as the water temps drop even more. The flat sides will start to shine.  If the above don't work. Then break out the spinning rod and tie on a spy bait. 

A big key to remember this time of the year is to match the your baits to the size of the baitfish that you are around. It will get you more bites! As always have your topwater ready as those schooling bass can pop up anywhere through out the day. 
Best of luck to you and tight lines.
Jason Hensley

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