Wow! Great fish! What did you get them on? I’m trying to get into largemouth this year but I haven’t the slightest clue on how to target them. I will be hitting the local lakes and ponds in the Yakima area. Any pointers?
Mostly spinnerbaits and jigs. Largemouth bass are very structure related fish. Any submerged logs/rocks/docks will usually hold fish. They are not too picky of a fish thus why there are SOOO MANY different options. I would say your top baits would be any spinnerbait a few different jig colors and sizes and some soft plastic worms/salamanders. Those should catch majority of the fish
Thanks for the tips. I’m gonna go try for some later this week.
Here's another tip: rocks, docks, logs etc. Are COVER not structure. Structure is points, humps, channels, ledges, drop offs, etc. Bottom contours basically.
Very critical to know, understand the difference and why it's important there's a difference and how the two work together to position fish at a given time of year.
Bass right now are seeking warmth to fire their metabolisms to feed up for the spawn in May. SHALLOW cover is key right now. Wood and rock absorb and emit heat, so bass will hold close this time of year, especially if it's sunny. Vegetation will hold bass this time of year as well, especially green vegetation because it's also rich in dissolved oxygen.
Now through the start of the spawn is the time of year the big girls are most accessible as they are shallow and fairly predictable. They will also feed more willingly as they need energy to get through the rigors of spawning.
Jigs and minnow imitating baits work well because they mimic food that is rich in protein, especially crawdads. Play with color, some days it's brown, others it's black or green for jigs.
I've been on clear water lakes to murky lakes and all are at a good temperature right now. Just target wood cover in eight feet or less and you should encounter something. Last time I was out I did notice an influx of smaller males to two pounds but that's ok, they keep you tuned in until the old lady grabs on!
To the OP, nice Toads and thanks for sharing!