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By LENNY CRISPINO
© St. Petersburg Times, published July 7, 2001
As water temperatures increase, it becomes tougher to catch bass in shallow water. During the hottest months I spend most of my fishing time away from the bank in 8-10 feet. I have found bass, especially larger trophy bass, will stay in cooler, deeper water where bait is abundant.
When searching for an area, I idle in 8-10 feet, watching my bottom finder. Look for something different: a sandbar, submerged grass bed, any type of depth change. I drop a buoy in areas with potential. The most effective bait is a Carolina-rigged worm. Place a half-ounce egg sinker on your line and tie in a barrel swivel. Attach 18-24 inches of leader, tie on a 3/0 offset worm hook and Texas-rig an 8-inch plastic worm. Cast it, let it fall to the bottom and slowly drag it back to the boat.
A bite may feel distinct, like a tap on the rod, but often feels like dragging a wet rag. If the wet rag pulls back, lower your rod, reel up the slack and set the hook.
- Lenny Crispino guides on Lake Tarpon. Call (727) 938-2379.