Florida blesses anglers with the biggest bass of the year potential nearly year-round. But one special period spikes that “personal best” potential: the pre-spawn. Given the state’s length, pre-spawn timing can vary significantly.
The pre-spawn is the window of time just before bedding time. Depending on where you fish, the pre-spawn length will differ. For instance, this stage can last 3 or more months in South Florida. Prespawn in Florida begins in December as the water temperatures drop to the optimum temps. It continues until it rises again in late February. It can be as quick as a week on the Great Lakes. Where a more abbreviated spring shortens the entire spawning process.
To successfully fish in Florida during the prespawn in February, focus on locating bait. and use affective lures, and understand bass behavior as they prepare to spawn…
Key Strategies for the Biggest Bass of the Year.
- Locate Bait: During the prespawn phase they feed heavily to prepare for spawning. Look for schools of baitfish, which can often be spotted in shallow water around the grass. If you find the bait, you will likely find the bass.
- Target Specific Areas: Bass in Florida tend to stage in deeper waters (4 to 8 feet) near cover such as submerged vegetation, stumps, rocks, and dock posts. Focus on these and channels leading to shallower areas, especially around points and grass edges.
- Use Effective Lures: The right lure can make a significant difference.
Here are some recommended lures for catching the biggest bass of the year.
Monitor Water Temperature: As the water temperature rises from the high 40’s to around 60 degrees, bass will become more active and start moving towards spawning areas. Pay attention to warming trends, as they can significantly affect big mouth’s behavior.
Adjust Techniques Based on Conditions: Be prepared to adapt your fishing techniques based on weather and water conditions. For example, if a cold front hits, bass may retreat to deeper waters and become less active. In such cases, slow down your presentation and use more subtle lures. By employing these “Strategies for Bass” and understanding the behavior of bass during the prespawn period, you can increase your chances of a successful fishing trip in Florida during prespawn in February.
I am so honored to be Inducted into the
International Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame
Here we are receiving our awards for the International Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame.
From Left: Jerry Costabile (Inductee) Emmitt Brown (Executive Director of the Hall of Fame) Lee Bailey Jr, (inductee) and Jim Grant (Selection Committee)
What a day, I am still trying to let it sink in.
A special thanks to all my sponsors who stuck with me over the years and my wife Louann, All my friends, family and fans.
May God Bless you all.
Lee
