Bucket Mouth Basics

Bass Fly Fishing

Bass can be found in almost every state, the most notable exception being Alaska.  Bass are predatory fish, they eat regularly, and throughout the year.  Catching fish on the fly is becoming more popular than ever.  Here are a couple for catching bucketmouths on the long rod......

Slow Down!

Don't over work your popper.  I swear half the fish I hooked were when I wasn't paying attention.  What does that tell you?  You should probably let that popper sit for more time than you think.  

Yes, the anticipation is killer, but that's half the fun!

Know the Water 

Nothing replaces time on the water.  Talk to some locals, get to know the area.  Go fishing with folks, whether or not the fly fish.  Bass gravitate to underwater structure.  You need to know where the points are, submerged trees, drop offs etc.  Fish often, and fish with friends.

Retrieve!  

When fishing subsurface, make sure you're working your bug or streamer.  A bass take can be very subtle.  If you've got constant tension on the line, you more likely to feel the strike.

Timing is Everything

Yes, they bite all year long. Yes, they bite throughout the day.

However, have you ever run a popper over glass like water early in the morning before sunrise?  Ever cast into the setting sun and run your bug over the lily pads?  

Early morning and early evening can be prime for bass.  These low light conditions bring out the big ones.  If your time on the water is limited, these are those must hit times.