Spring/Early Summer 2026
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POWER FISHING PRESENTATIONS
Another reason the biggest fish have become this way is because they have formed an appetite for larger meals. This is where the big bait game comes into play. My personal best spotted bass was just over 8-pounds and was caught on an eight-inch trout patterned topwater walking bait making this a good choice. I have found that a glide bait can also really excite the fish and coax them into biting. And the success of a soft swimbait cannot be disputed. These baits are also a perfect choice for mid-column suspended fish.
SEASONAL SPOTTED BASS BEHAVIOR
There are better times throughout the year to target giant spotted bass. However, with a good understanding of their behaviors the possibility is year-round. In the early spring they will be looking to spawn, in depths from 5’ to 25’. The summer months they tend to suspend a scour for shad, trout, and Kokanee in open water. Then fall comes and they will start to position in shallower water. And winter they will gorge on crawdads in creek channels and 45-degree banks.
MINDSET TO LAND TROPHY SPOTTED BASS
As a final thought I would just like to emphasize the importance of understanding the size and strength of a magnum fish. They will dig so hard it will feel like everything is about to break. Be prepared for it. Good gear, good line, high level of focus. Remember we are always just a hook set away from greatness. •
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