How To Catch Largemouth Bass In March

Seasonal changes have a significant impact on fish behavior, making certain times of the year better for fishing specific species. March is one such season, where largemouth bass fishing can be particularly fruitful. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, understanding the behavior, habitat selection, and feeding habits of largemouth bass in March is essential for successful fishing.

In this article, we’ll explore the ways in which largemouth bass typically behave in March, the best lures and techniques to use, and successful strategies for increasing your chances of catching the prized fish. Let’s get started.

Understanding Largemouth Bass Behavior in March

Before you head out on your fishing trip, it’s important to understand how largemouth bass behavior changes in March. This knowledge will help you determine where to find them, how to present your bait, and what types of lures to use.

Spawn Preparation

One key reason why March is a prime month for largemouth bass fishing is that the fish start preparing for their spawn in April and May. During this time, the male bass start developing nests in shallow water to attract females, while the females start feeding more heavily to build up energy for the upcoming spawn.

As the temperatures start to rise in March, the bass become more active and start moving towards shallow water in search of food. They also start to become more aggressive and territorial, making them more likely to bite on lures.

Feeding Habits

Largemouth bass are generally opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat almost anything that looks like prey. However, they do have specific feeding habits that can vary depending on the time of day and the water conditions.

In March, largemouth bass typically feed more heavily during the early morning and late afternoon hours, when the water is cooler and the prey is more active. They also tend to feed more frequently in shallow water, where the water is warmer and more food is available.

Habitat Selection

Largemouth bass habitat selection also changes in March as they start preparing for the spawn. They tend to move towards shallow water, usually less than six feet, where they can easily access prey and build nests.

In addition to shallow water, they also tend to be attracted to places with cover, such as weed beds, rocks, and fallen trees. These structures provide important hiding places for prey and shelter for the bass.

Lure Selection for March Fishing for Largemouth Bass

Knowing the feeding habits and habitat selection of largemouth bass in March is essential in determining the best types of lures to use for successful fishing. Here are four lures that are typically effective when fishing for largemouth bass in March:

Crankbaits

Crankbaits are a versatile type of lure that imitates the movements of baitfish, making it an attractive target for bass. They are particularly effective in clear or slightly murky water, where they can create the illusion of a wounded or dying fish that attracts the attention of hungry bass.

Jerkbaits

Jerkbaits are another type of lure that imitates the movements of baitfish, but with a more erratic and wounded action. They are particularly effective in colder water, where bass are less likely to move quickly and need a little more coaxing to strike.

Spinnerbaits

Spinnerbaits are a combination of a jig and crankbait that can be particularly effective in murky water or when the water is choppy. They are often designed to create noise and vibration to attract the attention of hungry bass, making them effective in attracting the aggressive nature of bass in March.

Jigs

Jigs are an effective type of lure for bass fishing in any season due to their versatility. They come in various types and sizes and can imitate almost any type of prey, from crawfish to baitfish. In March, jigs are particularly effective in shallow water with cover, where bass tend to congregate.

Techniques for Catching Largemouth Bass in March

Once you have selected the appropriate lure for your fishing trip, understanding the different techniques for using each lure can increase your chances of catching largemouth bass in March. Here are four effective techniques for catching largemouth bass in March:

Slow Retrieval

One effective technique for using a crankbait, jerkbait, or spinnerbait is slow retrieval. This technique involves reeling in the lure at a slow and steady pace, making it more realistic and natural for the bass. This works particularly well in clearer water, where bass can easily see and track the movement of the lure.

Stop-and-Go Retrieval

Stop-and-go retrieval is a technique that involves intermittently pausing the retrieval of the lure to imitate the movements of an injured or wounded prey. This is an effective technique to use with jerkbaits or crankbaits, as it can trick the bass into thinking the prey is vulnerable and easy to catch.

Yo-Yo Retrieval

Yo-yo retrieval involves repeatedly dropping the lure to the bottom and quickly retrieving it, imitating the movements of a baitfish. This technique is effective in rocky or uneven terrain where baitfish are common, making it an attractive target for bass.

Trolling

Trolling is a technique that involves slowly moving the lure through the water while the boat is in motion. This technique can be particularly effective when fishing in deeper water or when the water is choppy, as it creates a more natural presentation of the lure.

Successful Strategies for Catching Largemouth Bass in March

In addition to understanding the behavior and feeding habits of largemouth bass in March and selecting the appropriate lure and techniques, there are some successful strategies to increase your chances of catching the prized fish.

Location, Location, Location

As with any type of fishing, one of the biggest factors in catching largemouth bass in March is location. Pay attention to the water conditions, temperature, and structure to determine where the bass are likely to be found. Focus on shallow water near cover, such as weed beds and rocky areas, and look for signs of baitfish or activity from larger predatory fish.

Trying Different Lures

Largemouth bass can be finicky when it comes to lures, and what works one day may not work the next. Try using different types of lures and changing up the colors or sizes to see what the bass respond to best. It’s always a good idea to have a few different options on hand in case one isn’t working.

Paying Attention to the Weather

The weather can have a significant impact on largemouth bass behavior, making it important to pay attention to the conditions when planning your fishing trip. Cooler water temperatures on cloudy or overcast days can make bass more active, while warmer temperatures on sunny days can push bass towards deeper water.

Managing Your Lines

Finally, managing your lines can make a big difference in catching largemouth bass in March. Use a high-quality fishing line that is appropriate for the type of lure and technique you are using, and make sure it is properly spooled and maintained. This will increase your chances of landing a fish once you get a bite.

Conclusion

Largemouth bass fishing can be a fun and exciting experience for anglers of all skill levels, especially during the prime month of March. To increase your chances of catching the prized fish, it’s important to understand their behavior, feeding habits, and habitat selection, as well as selecting the appropriate lure and technique and using successful strategies like location scouting, trying different lures, paying attention to weather conditions, and managing your lines. Armed with this knowledge and the right gear, you’ll be on your way to a successful largemouth bass fishing trip in no time!