As the leaves begin to change, so do the habits of bass. Fall fishing presents unique challenges, but it’s also a great opportunity to make the most of the season with the right gear and techniques. For professional angler Edwin Evers, one lure stands out above the rest for fall bass fishing: the buzzbait.
Why a Buzzbait?
During the fall, bass often stay shallow or near the surface, where oxygen levels are higher as bodies of water start to turn over. While many anglers unknowingly cast below the fish this time of year, the buzzbait works its magic right on top, where the bass are hanging out.
What makes this lure even more effective?
- Surface Commotion: Buzzbaits create a lot of noise and movement, grabbing the attention of bass.
- Weedless Design: They navigate through cover without snagging, allowing you to fish in tricky spots.
Choosing the Right Buzzbait Setup
Maximize your success by selecting the right gear:
- Weight and Blade: Go for a half-ounce buzzbait with a gold blade for optimal performance.
- Color: Match the water clarity with your bait:
- Black for clear water
- White for muddy water
- Line and Rod: Pair your buzzbait with 50-pound braided line and a 7-foot medium-heavy action rod for the strength and sensitivity needed to land your catch.
Mastering the Casting Technique
The way you cast can make all the difference when using a buzzbait. Edwin recommends casting parallel to cover, such as:
- Shorelines
- Weed lines
- Laydowns (fallen trees)
- Docks
By positioning your casts strategically, you’ll increase your chances of enticing bass hiding in these areas.
The Key to Striking Success
When you feel the strike, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Instead, hesitate for a moment to let the fish fully take the bait. This simple patience can significantly improve your hookup rate.
One of the greatest thrills of fishing with a buzzbait is watching the strike. For Edwin, that thrill never gets old: “I caught my first bass on a buzzbait years ago, and the excitement of seeing the strike still has me hooked to this day!”
Reel in the Adventure
Fall fishing with a buzzbait combines the excitement of visual strikes with the satisfaction of hooking bass in their prime shallow water habitat. With these tips from Edwin Evers, you’ll be ready to make the most of this season’s fishing adventures.
