Bank habitat contains many areas to catch bass. The section of water adjacent to shore is full of life such as frogs, baitfish, and crayfish. Should they fall into the water, chipmunks, mice, dragonflies, and other terrestrial critters are also on the menu.
Largemouth tucked under docks, fallen trees, and other shady spots, come out to feed on an array of prey near the shore as light fades. The bank as well as shallow drop-offs are natural contours fish relate to when roaming for food. Likewise for inside and outside weedlines. Expect points to hold active bass, too. Be sure to cast to these spots.
Watch for shoreline variations. A natural bank comprised of trees, grass, and reeds that changes to structure, such as riprap, boulders, or a concrete wall. Edges such as this concentrate bass. Similarly, largemouth mill around isolated rocky reefs or strewn timber found on sand and pea gravel bottoms.
A wake bait is an excellent pick for fishing shorelines. It’s surface disturbance attracts bass from a wide area. Bass home in on the lure’s wake. Rattles add another sound dimension appealing to largemouth. A straight swimming retrieve accented with an occasional pause is all it takes to catch largemouth on a wake bait. Be on the lookout for cover, such as standing timber and lily pads. Change the rod angle to steer the lure towards these obstructions as bass often lurk nearby. Contacting the obstacle with the bait can also trigger bites.
I use a 7-foot, 2-inch moderate, medium-heavy casting rod to toss wakers for largemouth. Monofilament in 12- to 15-pound test get the nod for its cushiness and floating properties.
