As the first full moon of February rises over Southern California, anglers are met with a blooming opportunity: the warming waters signal the approach of pre-spawn conditions, setting the stage for tackling large female bass in their traditional staging areas. The dynamic nature of this period makes it one of the most exciting times to fish for big largemouth, especially using soft swimbaits, according to an experienced angler with over two decades of expertise.
"I’ve spent the past two decades buying, casting, losing, and learning how not to suck with big soft baits when there were only a handful of options," said the angler as he prepares for an extensive fishing tour across the country. Following the Bassmaster Classic Outdoor Expo in late March, he plans to traverse various regions in pursuit of the biggest bass, maximizing their weight potential.
"I’ve spent the past two decades buying, casting, losing, and learning how not to suck with big soft baits when there were only a handful of options,"
For those eager to join in on this chase for a lifetime catch, it's essential to set clear goals. "If your goal is to hold the biggest bass of your life, then this adventure is for you," he explained. However, using larger soft baits often means lower numbers of bites and, at times, the chance of coming up empty-handed. A trophy bass angler must possess hyper-focus and determination, qualities he identifies as critical for enduring the inevitable long stretches without any action.
"If your goal is to hold the biggest bass of your life, then this adventure is for you,"
"A consistently successful trophy bass angler is no stranger to long droughts: no followers, no bites, and at times, seemingly no hope," he stated, emphasizing the mental fortitude required to succeed.
"A consistently successful trophy bass angler is no stranger to long droughts: no followers, no bites, and at times, seemingly no hope,"
Choosing the right bait is crucial in this endeavor. The angler defines a "big bait" as anything starting at a 7-inch threshold, noting that this size typically sees a drop in catches by smaller bass. "I want to catch the largest bass I can when she’s at her maximum weight potential, hopefully gravid and with a big meal or three already in her stomach," he said. This focus on targeting the largest fish ensures that the angler is not wasting efforts on smaller bass that don't represent the lake's biggest members.
"big bait"
When casting in places like Vermont during the pre-spawn, he favors 7.5- to 9-inch soft baits. These sizes prove effective in various regions, including the Great Lakes and even Illinois. Meanwhile, in states such as California and Texas, the angler shifts to larger options, frequently using baits over 8 inches to improve the likelihood of landing 10-pound or bigger bass.
"In the northern states, I would be targeting 7- to 9-pound fish, which are GIANTS in relative terms," he added.
"In the northern states, I would be targeting 7- to 9-pound fish, which are GIANTS in relative terms,"
Race Results
Among his go-to selections are boot tail and paddletail swimbaits, known for their effectiveness in different water conditions. "I’ve had incredible results fishing a paddletail in cold water, even in the dead of winter," he reflected, challenging the notion that these lures are only suitable for warmer months. Each swimbait offers unique action and versatility, making them valuable tools.
"I’ve had incredible results fishing a paddletail in cold water, even in the dead of winter,"
"There are no absolutes in fishing," the angler remarked. As he continues to evolve his techniques, he acknowledges that understanding how rigging affects application in the water column is vital.
With his Yeti cup full and ready to go, he shares that the upcoming fishing season promises to be one filled with opportunities to connect with massive bass. The convergence of lengthening days and warming waters provides the backdrop for potential fishing triumphs, especially for those prepared to tackle the challenges that come with using big baits.
In anticipation of the upcoming fishing season, anglers looking to master the art of catching pre-spawn largemouth bass with swimbaits should brace themselves for both patience and excitement. With proper preparation and an understanding of the techniques shared, they may very well land the fish of their dreams during this opportune time.
