The weather is starting to warm up outside, and we know that you are just itching to get those fishing rods out of storage. Crappie and largemouth bass are entering into their breeding season, so there will be plenty of fish for you to catch in the coming months. Here's what you need to know about reeling in these spring fish.
Get in Early
Many people don't start fishing until later in the season, so you'll have lots of competition at that time. To have the best chances of catching crappie or largemouth bass, get out there in March and April when the fish are just starting to spawn. Both species of fish are prolific multipliers, so you don't have to worry about impacting the population.
Seek Out Warmer Water
Both of these types of fish prefer warmer waters, so you'll often find them in the shallows on sunny days. However, if it is cloudy or windy outside, they'll seek refuge in deeper waters. Look for areas that have shallow water adjacent to deeper water so that you can nab them as they go back and forth.
Switch Up Your Fishing Spots
Although this may go against common sense, you are unlikely to find crappie or largemouth bass in the same spot today as you did yesterday. These fish tend to move around quite a bit, so you should too. Try a few casts in one spot, then move on if you don't get a bite. Once you find one fish, keep going in that area, as there are likely more nearby.
Change Your Speed with the Temperature
In warmer water, bass and crappie swim faster, but colder water slows their metabolism, causing them to become more sluggish. You'll need to switch up your bait accordingly. When it is warm, fast-moving bait can be quite enticing, but when it is cold, you should reel the bait in slowly so the fish can keep up.
Match Lures to the Water
If the water in a particular area is especially clear, you should use a lure that is light-colored or transparent. For murkier waters, choose lures in darker shades. Aim to fish a few feet lower than the point where you can no longer see your jig to have the best luck.
Stock Up on Fishing Gear
Here at Norton Sporting Goods, we have a wide range of fishing rods and tackle in stock. We'll be happy to help you identify the appropriate equipment to meet your needs. Our associates are experts in this area and can answer any questions you have about gear, fish and more. We're always ready with some great tips to help you achieve success in your fishing endeavors. Stop by today to see everything we have in stock and get ready for fishing season!
