Fishing Wing Dams for Bass

Wing dams are man-made structures designed to control and regulate water flow in rivers and streams. They are often made of rocks, concrete, or other materials and are positioned perpendicular to the shoreline, creating an extended point into the water. These structures can greatly impact the way fish behave and can be prime spots for fishing.

Bass are known to position themselves differently on wing dams depending on the flow conditions and the time of year. During low flow conditions, bass will typically be found near the back of the wing dam, where the water is deeper and provides cover from predators. In high flow conditions, they will move to the front of the wing dam, where the current is strongest and provides more oxygenated water.

Bass position of on wing dams also changes throughout the year. In the warmer months, they will typically be found near the surface, where the water is warmer, while in the colder months, they will be found at deeper depths, where the water is cooler.

When fishing for bass on wing dams, it’s important to understand the flow conditions and the season. Here are a few tips to help you catch more fish:

1. 1. Use the right gear: Choose a rod and reel that are appropriate for the size of the fish you’re targeting and the flow conditions of the water. A medium-heavy action rod with a fast-retrieve reel will work well for most situations.
   2. Find the bait: Though there is always some bait around wing dams, the best wing dams will be those with lots of bait. Find the bait; find the bass!
   3. Match the hatch: Use lures or baits that mimic the type of baitfish that are present in the area. This will increase your chances of catching the attention of the bass.
   4. Pay attention to the flow: Observe the flow conditions and adjust your fishing techniques accordingly. If the flow is strong, use heavier weights to help keep your bait or lure in place. If the flow is weak, use lighter weights to help keep your bait or lure suspended.
   5. Use the right retrieve: Though many anglers may be tempted to cast down current and work the bait back for a better sense of feel, working the bait with or cross current is usually best.
   6. Fish during peak feeding times: Bass are most active and will be feeding during dawn and dusk, so these are the best times to fish for them.
   7. Experiment with different baits: When fishing for bass on wing dams, it is important to use the right techniques in order to be successful. Here are some of the best ways to fish for bass on wing dams:

• Jigs and Soft Plastics: Jigs and weighted soft plastics are a great option for fishing on wing dams, as they can be cast into the current and worked slowly along the bottom. These mimic the natural movements of prey moving around the rocks and other cover, which helps trigger strikes from bass.
• Crankbaits: Crankbaits are another effective option for fishing on wing dams. They can be retrieved along the bottom or worked through the current, depending on the depth and flow conditions.
• Topwater Lures: Topwater lures, such as poppers and walking baits, can be especially effective on wing dams during the spring and early summer, when bass are in shallower water. These lures mimic the movements of prey on the surface, which can trigger a predatory response from the bass.
• Spinnerbaits: Spinnerbaits are also a great option for fishing on wing dams. They can be retrieved along the bottom or worked through the current, depending on the depth and flow conditions. The spinning blade creates a disturbance in the water that can attract bass and trigger a bite. Different trailers can be added to add bulk and enhance the action of the spinnerbait thus drawing attention from wing dam-related bass.

One of bass pro Bob Downey’s favorite places to fish is the Mississippi River, a place loaded with wing dams. Take a moment and watch this short video as Bob gives several key tips to successfully fishing wing dams for bass:

Wing dams can be great places to fish for bass, but it’s important to understand the flow conditions and the time of year in order to maximize your chances of success.

By using the right gear and retrieves, matching the hatch, paying attention to the flow, fishing during peak feeding times, and experimenting with different baits, you can increase your chances of catching more fish on wing dams.