Frog fishing for bedding bass can be an exciting and effective technique, especially during the spawning season. Bedding bass are protective of their nests, and using a frog lure can trigger aggressive strikes. Here are some strategies and essential gear tips for frog fishing for bedding bass:
Strategies:
- Locate Bedding Areas:
- Look for shallow areas with clear water where bass build nests during the spawning season.
- Polarized sunglasses can help you see bass beds and potential targets.
- Choose the Right Time:
- Bedding bass are more likely to be aggressive, especially during the pre-spawn and spawn periods.
- Early morning and late afternoon are often productive times.
- Use Natural Presentation:
- Cast your frog lure onto bass beds and work it over the nest to trigger a reaction from protective bass.
- Make short, accurate casts to avoid spooking the fish.
- Vary Retrieval Speed:
- Experiment with different retrieval speeds. Sometimes a slow, deliberate retrieve works, while other times a faster, more aggressive retrieve may trigger strikes.
- Target Aggressive Individuals:
- Not all bass on beds will be equally aggressive. Focus on those that actively defend their nests.
- Be Patient:
- Bedding bass can be finicky. If a bass doesn’t strike immediately, try different angles and presentations before moving on.
Essential Gear:
- Frog Lures:
- Select topwater frog lures with a weedless design, like hollow-body frogs. These can be worked over vegetation without getting snagged.
- Heavy Fishing Rod:
- Use a heavy power, fast-action baitcasting rod to handle the thick cover and set the hook effectively. A 7′ to 7’6″ rod is suitable.
- Baitcasting Reel:
- Choose a high-quality baitcasting reel with a high gear ratio for quick and powerful retrieves. A reel with a strong drag system is essential.
- Heavy Braided Line:
- Use heavy (at least 50-65 lb test) braided fishing line to handle the cover and provide the strength needed to pull bass from dense vegetation.
- Polarized Sunglasses:
- Quality polarized sunglasses help you see bass beds and track the movement of bass, allowing for more accurate casts.
- Landing Net:
- A landing net can be useful, especially if you’re dealing with larger bass. It helps prevent the fish from shaking free during the landing process.
- Stealth and Patience:
- Approach the fishing area quietly, and be patient. Bedding bass can be sensitive to disturbances.
Remember to check and comply with local fishing regulations, and consider practicing catch-and-release to preserve bass populations. Additionally, always prioritize the well-being of the fish by handling them carefully and releasing them promptly.
