High Water Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass react to rising water levels by moving into the back reaches of newly-flooded bays and coves. Rather than searching acres of flooded timber, focus on steeper, harder-bottomed bank sections with submerged rock or wood cover.
Fishing the Hard Banks
When faced with high water conditions, many anglers make the mistake of immediately targeting the flooded cover, such as wood fields. While these areas may seem promising, the real key to success lies in fishing the hard banks. By accessing the fish in areas with less inundated flooded cover, you increase your chances of hooking into some big bass.
Accessing Fish in High Water
One effective strategy is to venture into the back cuts and dead-end coves that are still relatively clear despite the high water. These areas often have less runoff and are not affected by muddy creeks or feeder creeks. By fishing in these spots, you can find largemouth and smallmouth bass that are holding in the clearer water.
The Importance of Clear Water
Clear water can be a game-changer when fishing in high water conditions. In rivers or lakes with dark, muddy water, finding areas with clear water can make all the difference. These spots provide better visibility for the bass and make it easier for them to locate and strike at your bait.
Targeting the Sharper Banks
When fishing in high water, it’s crucial to focus on the sharper banks. These areas offer a key advantage as they provide direct access to the fish. Instead of getting lost in the flooded cover, target the hard banks where the bass are more likely to be holding. By fishing directly on the hard bank, you increase your chances of enticing a strike from a hungry bass.
Expanding Hunting Grounds
High water conditions expand the hunting grounds for both anglers and bass. Places that were once inaccessible or reserved for birds and squirrels become prime fishing spots. With lots of cover for safety and ample opportunities to ambush prey, bass thrive in high water. As an angler, it’s like searching for a needle in a haystack, but the reward of hooking into a big bass makes it all worth it.
