Fishing a Dragonfly Hatch for Bass

Witnessing a bass feeding frenzy is an angler's dream, and one of the most exhilarating spectacles is when bass aggressively target dragonflies. These agile insects provide an irresistible feast for bass, making it the perfect opportunity to test your skills as a bass angler.

Understanding the Dragonfly Hatch:

Before venturing out, it's essential to grasp the dragonfly hatch and its impact on bass behavior. Dragonflies lay their eggs in water bodies, and once hatched, the nymphs reside underwater, feeding on small aquatic organisms. When the nymphs reach maturity, they crawl out of the water onto nearby vegetation or structures to shed their skin and emerge as adult dragonflies. This emergence process triggers a significant feeding response from bass, as they prey upon these defenseless insects.

Timing and Location:

Timing is crucial when planning to fish a dragonfly hatch. The emergence of dragonflies typically occurs during warmer months, often in late spring or early summer, when water temperatures rise and continue throughout the summer. Locating the areas where bass congregate during this hatch is essential also. Dragonflies tend to hatch in vegetation-rich areas near the water's edge, such as reeds, lily pads, or overhanging branches.

Target Active Feeding Zones:

During a dragonfly hatch, bass will position themselves in active feeding zones, where they can efficiently prey upon these insects. Focus your efforts around areas with thick vegetation or overhanging trees, as they serve as prime dragonfly habitats. Look for signs of bass activity, such as splashing or jumping, and cast your lure near the action. Bass tend to ambush dragonflies near the surface, so accurate and well-placed casts are key.

Equip Yourself Adequately:

To effectively fish a dragonfly hatch, make sure to equip yourself with the right gear. A medium-light to medium spinning rod paired with a matching reel filled with 6 to 10-lb test line you choose will provide the necessary strength and control depending on the cover being fished and baits being presented. Opt for monofilament or fluorocarbon line, which provides adequate sensitivity, castability, and durability when working baits in and around cover. As for lures, choose ones that mimic dragonflies, such as topwater poppers, 3 to 5-in soft stickbaits/jerkbaits, small profile popping or walking baits, or 2.5 to 3.5-in floating minnows. If bass are being finicky, note the color of the dragon flies and select colors that are similar.

Consider Using an Erratic Retrieve:

When it comes to fishing a dragonfly hatch, the "pop and pause" technique is highly effective. Using a topwater lure, such as a popper or minnow, cast it near vegetation or structures and impart a series of quick pops to mimic the struggling movements of a dragonfly. After each pop, allow the lure to pause for a moment, simulating a momentarily stunned or injured insect. This action often triggers aggressive strikes from hungry bass.

Adapt to Changing Conditions:

While planning to fish a dragonfly hatch, keep in mind that conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared to adapt your approach accordingly. If the bass show no interest in your topwater lures, consider switching to a subsurface presentation by using a soft stickbait or a soft jerkbait imitating the movement of a dragonfly nymph in the water column. Remember to match the hatch with the size, color, and movement of the dragonflies in your area to achieve the most convincing presentation.

But do bass really eat dragonflies? 

Absolutely, take a couple minutes to watch the following video and see what I mean!

I really love being on the water as much as possible when dragonfly hatches are underway. Not only are the bass highly active and feeding during the hatch; the bass have a bad habit of showing their locations and usually a lot easier to catch with a good presentation.