Tips for Bass Fishing on Tidal Waters

Fishing for largemouth bass in tidal rivers presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The constant ebb and flow of tides create dynamic conditions that require anglers to adapt their techniques accordingly.

• Understand the tidal patterns: Tidal rivers have distinct water height and current patterns that are influenced by the moon's gravitational pull. Research and familiarize yourself with the tidal charts for the water way you'll be fishing. Note the times of high and low tides, as well as the strength of the currents during the transition from one tide to the next. This information will assist you highlighting areas to fish at different times therefore helping you plan your fishing trips effectively.
• Identify key fishing locations: Largemouth bass in tidal rivers seek out areas that provide cover and ambush points. Look for submerged cover such as fallen trees, stumps, rocks, and vegetation along the riverbanks. Additionally, focus on areas where current meets cover and other physical structures (docks, wing dams, pilings, etc.), creating eddies and current breaks. These spots serve as prime holding areas and feeding zones for bass.
• Adapt to tidal movements: Largemouth bass movement and feeding activity in tidal rivers are highly influenced by the changing tides. During high tide, bass often move deeper into cover and become more difficult to locate unless pods of active baitfish or feeding birds indicate their presence. It's often easier to focus your efforts on targeting shallow areas and edges of structures and cover during low tide when bass are more concentrated, usually active and feeding. Adjust your fishing techniques accordingly to match the stage of the tide and how bass may be positioned around cover and structure.

Bass pro Shaw Grigsby has been fishing tidal water systems across the country for more years than many of us have been fishing. 

Take a few minutes and watch as Shaw and aquatic videographer Kim Stricker give their insight on fishing tidal systems while catching a few nice bass on the Potomac River, MD/VA...

So remember, as the tide changes, bass behavior will change as well. 

During the incoming tide, concentrate your efforts around shallow flats and submerged vegetationalways watching for bait and bird activity. As the tide recedes, focus on deeper holes, channels, and cover/structures adjacent to deeper water. Adapt your fishing techniques and lure selection according to the tidal conditions you're facing at that particular time of the tide cycle.