Bass, Walley, Crappie, Fishing Vacations in Colorado or Tarpon Springs
The old phrase for March, in like a lion, out like a lamb, not only applies to the weather, it is an indication that bass season is back. Every angler for the frozen north to the spawning south is gearing up for early spring bass fishing.
Pre spawning means the biggest bass are getting even bigger as they load up to be in prime baby making shape. That means a lot of hungry bass eager to hit that lure. So sound the dinner bell by banging weighted crank bait against rocks in deep water.
This slow movement along the bottom will kick up sand and vibrate through the water just like a crawfish scurrying though the mud. So as they say in Louisiana, sound the gong and let them hungry bass know there’s a mess o’ ‘dem mud bugs ready to be eaten.
Take That Temperature
Just like the rest of us, bass are cold this time of year. That means knowing the water temperature is crucial for finding the biggest fish who are ready to strike. At this time of year, big mouth bass won’t get into the spawning mood unless the water is at least 48 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they really get in the spawning mood once the water reaches 50 to 60 degrees.
With this in mind, a good thermometer can be an early spring bass fishing angler’s best friend. Even better is a boat’s temperature gauge, or a depth temperature gauge that can measure the water temperature at varying depths.
Temperature also means that as the waters warm up, the bass will move from deep water to shallow and even start coming to shorelines and overhangs. Any place the water is warm enough will excite the bass to spawning, and spawning means feeding.
Fat Momma is Hungry! Feed her right.
To get the best response, remember that the males are filling up to get stronger, and the big, fat mommas are eating everything they can. That means ensuring the lure on the line is what they have a craving for.
Look to rattle baits and jigs to stir things up. Also, don’t be afraid to hitch a larger lure to the line every now and then. Sometimes the biggest ones are looking for that combo-sized meal. Try casting long and then slowly retrieving the bait to ensure smooth water. Spawning bass are anxious, but also warry.
Finally, if there’s a lot of spring vegetation present, try a lipless crank bait. This lure will mimic the bait fish in the reeds and entice even the shyest of bass out into the open. Just remember, early spring bass fishing is all about pre spawning and spawning. Keep that in mind and get ready to bring in the big ones.
Spring is not just for Big Mouth Bass
While most anglers are looking for that trophy bass, the smart ones are also aware other fish are waking up from their winter sluggishness. Spring crappie fishing can be both challenging and rewarding.
These fun to catch panfish congregate in protected, shallow water right after the first spring thaw. And they are hungry! Crappie will eat just about anything at this time of year to fatten up and strengthen for spawning season.
Look for shallow water areas that are protected, such as coves and canals, which are hit with early morning sunlight to keep them warm. These are the executive suites of the crappie community and will be teaming with the largest, most aggressive targets.
Use a float to keep the bait just out of reach and most crappie will angle up to go after the bait. Dangling the lure just above the strike zone is hard to resist. This can be even more effective with a slow float through those sunny protected areas.
Walleye fishing is another great spring activity. For these big biters, just remember that spring is a lazy time for them and slow and steady is the way to go. Use soft jigs and disappearing monofilament lines to keep the fish calm. Keep to the shallows where it is warmer and slowly troll the lure.
Keep the jig light enough to move freely, but weighted enough to stay near the bottom. This is especially important in deeper water where an angler can’t quite see the bottom. This lighter jig also makes it easier for the walleye to strike and pull the bait into its mouth.
Where to go when we lose the snow
Spring time is a great time to get away with friends and family, or even go on a solo trip to clear the winter cobwebs and get back in the game. Few places offer as much variety and great fishing as Colorado.
Fishing in Colorado Springs is a spring time tradition in many circles. From Rocky Mountain National Park to the Chipeta Lake State Wildlife Area, Colorado has a wide variety of locations, fish types, and amenities for the springtime angler on vacation.
One of the best is the Crystal Creek Reservoir just northeast of Colorado Springs. Rainbow trout, brook trout, even brown trout are common here and the landscape is breathtaking.
A short drive and Pikes Peak becomes the place to go with streams and rivers chocked full of hungry fish. In addition, there are guides and tours aplenty to help new anglers set up and get going.
All of these trout filled rivers means the fly fishing in Colorado Springs is second to none. So those looking to spend a day thigh-deep in the water need to look no further.
While most of the country is thawing, don’t forget those always warm areas that offer great springtime and year round fishing. Places like Tarpon Springs, FL, where the name says it all.
No matter what the weather is like, it is never a bad time to book a Tarpon Springs fishing charter. Let’s face it, the place was named after these fast, aggressive, and fun to catch fish.
Just a short drive north from Tampa brings anglers to the Gulf Coast, where some of the best fishing in the world is to be found.
So thaw out, warm up, and hit the rivers, lakes, or even the beaches. Happy early spring bass fishing!
