Bass fishing is an art that requires not just skill but also the right lure selection to match seasonal changes.
Whether you're targeting largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, or any other, choosing the relevant fishing lures for bass based on the time of year can significantly improve your fishing success.
At Basin Sports, we understand the importance of high-quality gear, such as bass fishing lures that are tailored to the fishing needs of each season. From rods and reels to specialized tackle boxes, we provide everything an angler needs.
With this guide, you can learn how to pick the best bass fishing lures for each season, so that you're always prepared for changing water conditions and bass behavior!
Basin Sports - Berkley Choppo 90 Lure BHBCP90
Spring: The Pre-Spawn & Spawn Period
Not all bass fishing lures work the same for all types of bass in all seasons. As the water temperature rises between 50°F and 70°F, bass begin moving from deeper waters to shallow spawning areas. This is one of the best times to catch trophy-sized bass fish with reliable bass fishing lures.
1. Jerkbaits
Best for: Pre-spawn bass in cold waters
Why? Bass are still moving slowly after the winter but will strike a slow-moving, erratic lure
Recommended use: Use a suspending jerkbait with a twitch-pause retrieve in clear or slightly stained waters.
2. Lipless Crankbaits
Best for: Covering water quickly and finding aggressive bass
Why? These lures create strong vibrations that attract hungry bass
Recommended use: Opt for red or crawfish-colored crankbaits in early spring
3. Soft Plastic Craws & Creature Baits
Best for: Beds and shallow cover
Why? These mimic natural prey and can provoke reaction strikes from territorial bass
Recommended use: Rig them Texas-style or on a jig near beds
Summer: The Peak Feeding Season
Once the spawn ends and temperatures rise above 75°F, bass become more aggressive but also move to deeper, cooler waters during the day. This requires fishing lures for bass that perform well under such circumstances.
1. Topwater Lures (Frogs, Poppers, and Buzzbaits)
Best for: Early morning and late evening fishing
Why? Bass strike violently at the surface, making this an exciting technique
Recommended use: Use hollow-body frogs over vegetation and poppers near submerged wood
2. Deep Diving Crankbaits
Best for: Reaching bass that have moved into deeper waters
Why? These lures can get down to 10-20 feet, where bass hide during the hottest parts of the day.
Recommended use: Choose shad or bluegill patterns and retrieve steadily over drop-offs
3. Soft Plastic Worms (Texas & Carolina Rigs)
Best for: Catching finicky bass in deeper water
Why? Worms have a natural movement that entices even inactive fish
Recommended use: Use a Carolina rig for deeper structure fishing or a wacky rig in shallows
Fall: The Transition Season
As temperatures begin to drop from the summer highs, bass enter a feeding frenzy to prepare for winter. This is one of the most productive seasons for catching large fish using the best bass fishing lures.
1. Spinnerbaits
Best for: Imitating baitfish and covering large areas
Why? The flashing blades mimic shad, one of bass’ favorite food sources in fall
Recommended use: Use double-willow blade spinnerbaits in clear water and Colorado blade spinnerbaits in murky water.
2. Lipless Crankbaits
Best for: Targeting schools of bass chasing baitfish
Why? Their vibrating action draws reaction strikes
Recommended use: Retrieve at varying speeds near points, drop-offs, and creek channels
3. Jigs (Football Jigs & Swim Jigs)
Best for: Fishing around rocky bottoms and structure
Why? Jigs imitate crawfish, which bass feed on heavily in fall
Recommended use: Drag a football jig slowly along rocky bottoms or swim a white swim jig through submerged grass.
Winter: Cold Water Bass Fishing
Winter bass fishing can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can still land some quality fish. As temperatures drop below 50°F, bass slow down and stay close to deeper structure.
1. Blade Baits
Best for: Vertical jigging in cold water
Why? These lures have a tight vibration that works well for sluggish bass
Recommended use: Use a silver or gold blade bait with a slow lift-and-drop motion
2. Jerkbaits
Best for: Cold, clear water situations
Why? A suspending jerkbait allows for long pauses, which is key for lethargic bass
Recommended use: Use a slow twitch-and-pause retrieve, keeping pauses between 5-10 seconds.
3. Hair Jigs
Best for: Finesse presentations in extremely cold water
Why? The subtle movement of hair jigs mimics small baitfish
Recommended use: Slowly lower the jig over deep structures in natural colors like white or brown.
Final Thoughts
Matching your lures to the seasonal patterns of bass movement is key to maximizing your success in fishing, a favorite outdoor activity of many, whether you consider it a sport or a hobby!
Whether you’re fishing in the warmth of summer or the chill of winter, selecting the right rod, reel, and tackle setup is just as important as choosing the right lure.
At Basin Sports, we provide high-quality fishing gear, including:
Fishing Rods & Reels – Top brands for every technique
Tackle Boxes & Organizers – Keep your lures accessible and safe
Fishing Motors & Accessories – For serious anglers on the water
Ice Fishing Gear – Perfect for winter fishing adventures
With the right setup and relevant bass fishing lures, you can consistently catch bass year-round. Visit Basin Sports to find the best fishing tackle for your next trip!
Having been around since 1956, Basin Sports is a renowned provider of high-quality sports supplies, equipment, and other gear. It’s the favorite sporting store in all of Vernal, Utah, for offering the best products at best prices.
Choose from high-quality fishing lures that are durable and high performing. Visit the store or shop online to purchase your favorites from a wide range of sports gear. Contact the store for more details.
