How Water Temp Affects Spring Bank Fishing

As the weather warms up and we transition from winter to spring, the water temperature in ponds starts to rise. For bank anglers targeting bass, this change in water temp can have a big impact on where the fish are holding and what lures or baits work best. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you hit the banks this spring in search of lunker bass:

Early Spring (Water Temp 45-55°F)

In the early spring when water temps are still on the cooler side, bass will be very lethargic and sluggish. They'll be hanging out in the deepest, coldest parts of the lake or river, often in schools. Your best bet is to fish slow-moving lures like jigs, texas-rigged plastics, or lipless crankbaits that dive to those deeper zones. Live bait like minnows or crawfish can also be productive. Focus on areas with deep water close to the bank.

Mid-Spring (Water Temp 55-65°F) 

As the water warms up into the 55-65°F range, bass will start to get more active and move up onto flats, points, and shallow cover like docks and vegetation. They'll be feeding more aggressively as they prepare to spawn. This is when reaction baits like spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, chatterbaits and topwaters can really shine from the bank. You'll also want to try carolina-rigged plastics and square-billed crankbaits that can cover water effectively.

Late Spring (Water Temp 65-75°F)

In the late spring, bass will be in full-on spawn mode with water temps in the 65-75°F range. They'll be up shallow, guarding their nests. This is when you'll want to target areas with dark-bottomed coves, pockets, and other isolated spawning areas. Wacky rigs, small finesse worms, and creature baits can be deadly. You may even spot some beds and be able to target them directly.

Take a few moments and watch as the folks from W2F provide some great insight into simple ways to check pond temps as well as other considerations when bank fishing in the spring...

Paying close attention to the current water temperature and how it influences bass behavior is key to bank fishing success in the spring. Adjust your lure selection, fishing location plus bait presentation and you'll be well on your way to catching more and bigger bass from the bank this spring.

Fishing High Water Conditions for Spring Bass

Fishing in high, flood waters can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding.

When the water level rises, bass move to different areas of the lake or river in search of food and cover. By understanding where bass go during high water, you can increase your chances of catching them.

Where to Find Bass in High Water

One of the best places to find bass in high water is in the backs of creeks and coves. These areas tend to hold more cover and lower clarity than the main lake, which makes them more attractive to bass. Look for creeks and coves that have plenty of cover, such as trees, rocks, and vegetation.

Another good place to find bass in high water is along the banks of the lake or pond. Bass will often move up onto the banks in search of food and cover. Look for areas with rocks, logs, and other debris that bass can use as ambush points.

Finally, don't forget to check the flooded areas of the lake or river. Bass will often move into these areas to feed on baitfish that have been displaced by the rising water.

What to Use to Catch Bass in High Water

When fishing in high water, it's important to use baits that will be visible to the fish. Brightly colored baits, such as chartreuse, red and orange, are a good choice. You can also use baits with a lot of action and vibration, such as spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, buzzbaits, and crankbaits.

It's also important to use heavier line when fishing in high water. Given the plethora of hard cover in flooded areas, you need to be able to control the bass and get it away from cover quickly. A quality line of at least 15-pound test line is a good choice for most situations.

Take a few moments and watch as the Lindners provide more insight into fishing high water conditions for spring bass...

Tips for Fishing the Bank in Spring

Winter is gone & spring is here…

The first major sunny warming trends is underway on your favorite bassin’ honey hole…

Where do you start?

Major/secondary points offering the transition from deeper wintering holes or…

Take a moment, watch the video and listen to what FLW Pro Terry Bolton has to say about fishing the bank in the early spring!

One thing is certain about fishing in the spring, the bass are heading to the shallows to prep for the spawn...

Looks like it might be time to keep those baits close to shore during your first springtime trip this year!

Agreed? :)