Night fishing basics.
Why not beat the heat and try chasing those big bass under the light of the moon? During the height of summer, it can be a daunting task to get a big fish to bite during the day, but big fish like to feed under the cover of darkness.
Tactics that work during the day will produce just the same at night, but a few easy modifications will help. If you like casting a Texas-rigged worm, you’re in luck. This is probably the most effective night-bassing tool there is. I modify mine two ways: I go lighter on my weight size (1/16- to 1/8-oz.) and I put a bead between the weight and the hook. I like a worm that falls slowly because bass look up to feed at night using the available light from the moon and artificial lights to better see prey. The bead provides clacking sound so bass can key in on and investigate the noise. Keep your worm color simple…black or anything dark. Worm styles and sizes are always fun to experiment with, but I like something big like the Gambler Lures 7”, 10” or 13” Ribbon Tail worm. These worms produce an extremely tantalizing slow fall as they slither down the water column and bass love them!
Again…bass are always looking up to feed at night, and this can be the best time to get one to nail your favorite plug, toad or buzz-bait. Don’t scrimp on line size. When blind casting around heavy cover, you never know what that fish might get wrapped around…go big.
Have a good headlamp to wear; these make life on a boat at night much better. Carry a spot light because if you find yourself needing one, you’ll really wish you had it. Bugs can be relentless so a strong repellent is highly recommended. Take a buddy along at night. It’s bad enough to find yourself in a pinch during the day; at night, it’s not likely anyone will happen by to assist.
Good fishing and God bless.
CAPT. RANDY “C-NOTE” CNOTA
C-note Charters
Panama City, FL
cnotecharters.com
(229) 834-7880