By Scott Norton
Now that the cooler nights have set in, we now see the transition at its fullest. When a transition happens, you will always notice changes in the environment. In the fall you will notice the die off of vegetation especially grass. Bass in the summer use grass for many reasons and when it starts to disappear, they go to the next best thing which is hard cover. Grass is such a great place where they can ambush while getting oxygen when they need it most. In some places healthy grass will still be present and where the healthiest grass is you will find bass. Hard cover like lay-downs, docks, and rocks will be the next place hold too.
Bass will start to move from the main lake to the secondary points in the shallows. They will start to school up and corral forage in the pockets and coves. When the sun comes out, they will seek shade in hard cover. Remember this when you are trying to understand what is going on. The fry that hatched last spawn is now on the menu, but they are a bit small. That is ok, you just need to match the hatch. Using a blade on your bait helps tremendously this time of year because when there are thousands of shad in the water you want something that draws attention to your bait. If you just blend in your bait will get lost in the numbers.
The baits to use should be natural in color for clear water. You need to add the element of flash to get noticed in the numbers. Jigs will be great in the lay-downs and docks while the sun is out while shad patterns dominate in open water scenarios. Be aware of your line thickness this time of year. Clear water will make it easy for them to see. In lay-downs you will not have to worry so much because of all the debris around the wood. Downsize your baits while using light line so your set up is in balance.
Remember in clear water the bass can feel your presence near-by so stay further out and use a stealthy presence to minimize being caught. Your trolling motor needs to be on a low speed to keep the noise at a minimum. Spooking fish in clear water is so easy to do. If you have a little wind, you can use it to your advantage by covering water by letting the wind push you. Make sure you position your boat appropriately, so you are going to direction you want to go.
Now if you are a shoreline fisherman you have a huge advantage. Bass will not see you coming just do not get too close to the edge. Where the bass are located should be with in your casting distance. Take advantage of this and you will have success. Enjoy this season and have create new memories.
Scott Norton is a Western North Carolina native. Born in Asheville, N.C., he is a long-time hunter, angler and weekend warrior.