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© St. Petersburg Times, published May 4, 2002
Many fishermen believe the only time to catch bass is early in the morning and late in the day. They laugh when I tell them most of my trophy bass were caught between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
It is true bass feed actively in shallow water under low light conditions. This occurs at dawn and dusk because of the movement of bait in shallow water. Bass are opportunistic feeders. I often find fish schooling in shallow water at first light. This might last two hours, and it is possible to catch 15-20 bass.
Once the baitfish disappears, so will the bass. If you continue fishing shallow, you will understand why many fishermen don't catch bass during the day.
When the sun gets high, the baitfish move to deeper water or heavy grass, and the bass follow. Move to these areas, and use baits that resemble the baitfish the bass are feeding on.
When all else fails, drag a plastic worm across the bottom. This is an excellent way to catch a trophy bass during the middle of the day. Follow the bait. The bass will.
-- Lenny Crispino guides on Lake Tarpon. Call (727) 938-2379.