Bass Fishing Depth & Structure Location Finder

Bass Structure Recommendations for Spring

In spring, largemouth bass are often targeting shad as they spawn and become more active. Here are 3-5 structures and depths where you're likely to find them ambushing shad:

1. Points

• Description: Points that extend into the lake are prime locations where bass can ambush shad as they move along the edge.
• Depth: Focus on the 10-15 ft range during midday.
• Why: The shallow water warms faster in spring, attracting shad, while bass can easily access deeper water for cover.

2. Drop-Offs

• Description: Look for steep drop-offs near spawning areas or near shallow flats.
• Depth: Target areas around 15-20 ft where the bottom drops off sharply.
• Why: Bass use drop-offs as ambush points, waiting for shad to come near the edge of the drop to escape predators.

3. Rock Piles and Submerged Structures

• Description: Any rocky outcroppings or submerged trees near spawning flats.
• Depth: 10-20 ft is optimal, particularly where these structures meet the drop-off.
• Why: Shad often seek shelter around these structures, and bass will use them to hide and strike.

4. Weedy Flats Near Deeper Water

• Description: Look for flats with vegetation that transition to deeper water.
• Depth: 10-15 ft, especially where vegetation starts to grow.
• Why: As shad move into shallower areas to spawn, bass will patrol the edges of these weeds to ambush them.

5. Creek Channels

• Description: Areas where creek channels intersect with spawning flats or points.
• Depth: 10-20 ft, depending on the channel depth.
• Why: Shad often follow these channels as they migrate, and bass will use them to position themselves for an ambush.

Seasonal Movements

In spring, as water temperatures rise, shad move into shallower waters to spawn, making them a primary target for largemouth bass. As the water warms, bass will follow the shad into these shallower areas but will retreat to deeper structures during midday heat.

Probing Tips

• Use a Variety of Techniques: Employ techniques like drop-shotting or Texas-rigging soft plastics to target these structures effectively.
• Pay Attention to Shadows: Look for shadows created by structures to find hidden ambush points.
• Change Your Retrieval Speed: Experiment with different retrieval speeds to mimic the erratic movement of shad, especially during midday when bass may be less active.
• Fish the Edges: When probing structures, focus on the edges where bass are more likely to ambush passing shad.

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