Big Bass in the Bayou! This spring has revealed what everyone in the bass fishing community already knew. Our beautiful tidal rivers and bayous can produce not only numbers but lunker largemouth as well. Over the past few months fish exceeding 5 pounds can be seen at just about every local tournament held along the Gulf Coast. I would like to thanks everyone that has contributed time and money towards the restocking programs after Hurricane Katrina. These programs along with catch and release of the larger fish seems to be growing the bass to above average for our area. The rain over the past few springs also helped in keeping a healthy bass population. Anyone fishing the lower marsh in any river system can gear up for heavy vegetation again this summer. The Pascagoula River is bursting with green vegetation of all shapes and sizes. For some this hinders the ability to fish their favorite baits, but don’t let that discourage you. Use the think vegetation to your advantage. Take a flippin’ or pitchin’ approach when searching the marsh. I prefer a 3/4 to 1 ounce tungsten weight to punch through most grass that occurs along the river. A medium heavy 7 foot rod loaded with 40 pound Power Pro is the smallest equipment I will use. The Berkley Pit Boss in the Havoc line of baits will slide through the thickest stuff in the water. I use a 4/0 – 5/0 wide gap super-line hook by Gamakatsu to up my chances at landing fish from beneath all the cover.
Thanks to all our service men and women of the Armed Forces and first responders for keeping our great nation safe.
Capt. Mike Adams
Fort Bayou Charters
228-697-4808