Drop offs for Bass

Drop offs for Bass is probably the first structure features the new bass angler hears about are `drop-offs’. The summer season makes it essential that he understands structure. For most fish, particularly the bass clan, take up residence at these locations during the warmer months. The angler must also recognize the two primary rules for fishing drop-offs. Firstly, determining if the area has any real degree of bass potential. Secondly, how to properly present a properly selected lure when fishing drop offs for bass.

Bass are structure-oriented fish. That is to say, they tend to be found around abrupt change features on the bottom. Drop-offs are the most common of these and usually the more productive. However, not all structures appeal to fish. There are other Fishing Factors™, which tend to have a strong influence on whether bass will use a specific feature for holding and feeding. When targeting these areas, remember that drop offs attract bass because of the sudden change in depth.

Deep-water access must be close

The most significant of these Fishing Factors™ is the relationship of deep-water access. Except for the spring spawning season, a bass will nearly always key to structure that is adjacent to, or in the very close proximity of, the deepest water in the general area. That is not to say the bass, itself, will be deep. His usual range in a normal body of water will be five to 15 feet. (In exceptionally clear waters, a good rule of thumb is to double those numbers). Deep water undoubtedly satisfies a bass’ need for a readily available haven of safety, especially near drop offs within typical bass fishing environments.

The next phase of locating our potential ‘honey holes’ is to back away from the old channels and look for similar contour variations. Also, consider cover features in back-water sections of the lake. For successful bass fishing, locating drop offs in bass habitats is crucial.

Bass, particularly the larger ones, will invariably be found near the edge of the drop-off and where the deepest water is readily available. If there are stumps or large rocks on the drop-off, bass will use them for cover. If the drop-off is barren, look for the bass to be just below the lip, hiding in the shadows. When a cold front has recently passed through, you can expect the fish to be somewhat deeper along the side of the drop. Alternatively, they may be holding on a deeper ledge of the structure. It’s important to be aware of how drop offs impact bass behavior.

Excerpts taken from Lee’s new book “Strategies for Bass“.