Crankbaiting Small Lakes for Big Largemouth Bass
Small, fertile lakes and ponds grow some of the largest bass, yet receive little or no fishing pressure. Casting crankbaits can be deadly for bass feeding on bluegills near the surface.
When the opportunity arises, there’s nothing quite like getting out of the office and going fishing in small lakes scattered across the country side. These bodies of water often hold some of the biggest fish, and understanding the forage is key to catching them.
Understanding the Forage
In the North Country, the main forage is bluegills and crawfish. On hot, muggy days like this, bluegills can be seen dimpling the surface of the water. To get the attention of the bass, a shallow running crankbait like the Clack and Crank is ideal. This bait runs down about 5 feet, which is perfect for the stained water of these eutrophic lakes.
Positioning of the Bluegills
When the water temperatures reach the high 70s, the bass get serious about eating the bluegills. They can be found high in the water column, up to five feet under the surface, around the edge of the weeds and slightly in them.
Catching the Big Fish
When the conditions are right, the big fish can be caught. Listening to the Clack and Crank bait, it’s easy to see why it’s so effective. The rattling sound and the water being thrown all over the place is sure to get the attention of the bass.
Conclusion
Small lakes like this can be a great place to catch some big largemouth bass. Understanding the forage and positioning of the bluegills is key to catching them. With the right bait, like the Clack and Crank, it’s possible to catch some of the biggest fish in the lake.
