How To Catch Bass When Its HOT!

Summary

In this video, Matt Allen from Tactical Bassin shares expert tips for catching bass during the sweltering summer months, particularly between 11 AM and 4 PM when many anglers avoid the heat. He emphasizes targeting bass in shallow cover like grass, docks, and laydowns using techniques such as punching, frogging, and big baits for drawing attention. For deeper fish, he recommends using deep crankbaits and wobble head jigs to cover key structures. Allen stresses the importance of staying hydrated and offers practical advice on bait selection and retrieval methods to maximize success in summer fishing.

Takeaways

• 🌞 Fishing during the hottest part of summer (11 AM to 4 PM) can yield big bass if you know where to look.
• 💧 Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with proper gear and sunscreen.
• 🌿 Bass seek cover from the heat, often hiding in the darkest, shadiest spots available.
• 🎣 Punching heavy cover is effective for targeting bass deep in grass, using a tungsten weight and creature bait.
• 🚤 Docks are prime locations for summer bass; focus on larger docks with deep shadows.
• 🌳 Laydowns and shadow edges are key areas for bass when fishing in hot weather.
• 🐸 Frogging is a crucial technique for fishing over thick mats of grass; use frogs designed for heavy cover.
• 🔄 Using big baits like swimbaits or wake baits can draw bass out from their cover effectively.
• ⚓ Offshore structures like rock piles and humps are essential for targeting deeper bass in summer heat.
• ⏩ Fast-moving baits, like deep crankbaits and wobble head jigs, help cover water efficiently, increasing your chances of hooking a giant.

Q & A

Why do many anglers avoid fishing during the hottest part of the summer day?

Many anglers shy away from fishing in the heat because it's uncomfortable, often leading them to fish only early or late in the day or turn to night fishing.

What advantage does fishing during the peak sun hours (11 AM to 4 PM) provide?

During peak sun hours, bass are often concentrated in shaded areas, making it easier to locate and catch big fish as they seek cover from the heat.

Where do shallow water bass typically go when the temperature rises?

Shallow water bass move to cover such as grass, docks, and laid down trees, seeking the darkest, coolest spots available.

What are the best techniques for targeting shallow water bass in the summer?

Effective techniques include punching heavy cover, frogging in grassy areas, and using large baits like swimbaits or wake baits along the edges of cover.

What should anglers consider when looking for the best shady spots?

Anglers should look for the largest, darkest shadows, as these spots are preferred by bass seeking cover. The thickness of the cover also influences their choice.

How can anglers effectively use a frog for summer bass fishing?

Frogs can be used in thick cover, where they can be thrown onto mats of vegetation, allowing for effective topwater presentations that bass will strike.

What is the significance of using large baits like swimbaits and wake baits in summer?

Large baits create a strong presence in the water, drawing bass out of their hiding spots in deeper shadows, particularly when visibility is low.

What offshore structures are key for finding deep summer bass?

Key offshore structures include rock piles, hard rocky points, and the ends of long points, where bass are likely to be located even in hot conditions.

Why might big fish be more likely to bite on extremely hot days?

During extremely hot days, smaller fish may be less active, leading to a higher chance of encountering larger, less aggressive fish that are seeking shade.

What role does hydration play in summer fishing success?

Staying hydrated is crucial for anglers, as dehydration can impact their ability to fish effectively and comfortably during hot summer days.