Fishing Jigs Around Flooded Trees

Flooded trees provide excellent habitat for bass, especially when located close to deeper water holding areas. The stump and exposed root system gives bass plenty of cover to ambush prey, especially important since there's usually a lot of baitfish around as well. 

Because of their snagless nature, jigs are one of the most effective lures for catching bass around flooded trees.

Here are 5 tips to help you be more successful when fishing jigs around trees:

1. Selecting the appropriate jig is crucial. For fishing around flooded trees, a 3/8 to 3/4 oz flipping or pitching jig with a weed guard is an excellent choice. It helps prevent snagging on branches and debris while allowing you to work the jig effectively.

2. Make accurate casts keeping the jig tight to the tree trunks. You want the jig to fall straight down alongside the tree and into any bottom cover where a bass is likely to be hiding. Be ready for fast strikes. 

3. Set the hook hard. When fishing around flooded trees, strikes can be subtle. Keep your line taut and be ready to set the hook at the slightest indication of a bite. Sometimes, you'll feel a subtle tap or just a change in line tension.

4. Vary your retrieve. Once your jig has fallen to the bottom, work it slowly and deliberately. You want to give the bass enough time to sense and react to your jig. You can work your jig by hopping it along the bottom or by dragging it slowly through the cover.

5. Use strong line and powerful rods. Because of the heavy cover, you'll want to use at least 40 lb test braided line. A 7'+ heavy power, fast action rod will help you wrestle fish out of the branches and roots. Don't be afraid to apply maximum pressure quickly to pull bass away from cover and prevent lost fish.

Here are some additional jig fishing tips when working flooded timber:

• Use a trailer on your jig. A trailer will add bulk and vibration to your jig, which can make it more attractive to bass.
• Experiment with different colors. Bass can be picky about color, so experiment with different colors until you find one that is working.
• Pay attention to the weather. Bass are more active on cloudy days and during low-light conditions.

Bass pro Patrick Walters loves fishing jigs through the tangles of standing timber. Take a few moments and watch as Walters gives his approach to catching bass from flooded trees...