Tips for Smallmouth Bass Fishing at Night

Here are some tips that anglers can use for smallmouth bass fishing at night. Smallmouth bass are a fun fish to catch and are a popular game fish in many areas. However, at certain times of the year smallmouth bass can be difficult to catch, especially during the heat of summer. During this summer time heat many fishermen and fisherwomen simply stop pursuing smallmouth bass but by going after smallies at night the fishing can be quite productive. Many of the same rules for daytime smallmouth fishing apply at night, but nighttime fishing does require a few simple changes for productive fishing.

Fish Simply

The biggest problem with night fishing is that it is dark. Having rods and tackle strewn around a bank or boat only causes confusion and leads to problems. An angler should simplify and organize their equipment before going night fishing to assure a calm and productive experience.

Heavier Line

Light line is often used for smallmouth bass fishing during the day, but at night heavier line is more useful. The heavier line won't be easily spotted at night and the added strength is very useful. Smallies will often run for cover and when fishing at night it is difficult to work the fish around obstacles. With the heavier line an angler doesn't have to play the fish and can simply haul the fish up and get it to the boat or bank before it has a chance to get into cover.

Fish Slow But Keep Lures Moving

Lures should be worked slowly and bumped along the bottom or over cover when night fishing for smallmouth bass. Smallies are often feeding on crayfish at night and will be patrolling the bottom in search of food. Letting lures stop and rest at night will often lead to a lot of snags and will make for a frustrating night. Bites can also be difficult to detect in the dark especially with heavy line. By keeping the lure moving the strikes should be more easily detected reducing the number of missed fish. Try using larger and louder lures that are easier for the smallmouth bass to locate at night.

Try Topwater

Topwater lures are one of the easiest lures to use at night (due to a reduction in underwater snags) and can be quite productive. Throw topwaters onto or near rocks, weeds and other structure near the bank and work them out toward deeper water. Bites on topwater lures are almost always obvious which will help to reduce misses.

Crayfish Imitations

Lures that imitate crayfish are often the most productive for smallmouth bass regardless of time of day. The pattern is less important in the darkness of night but the outline and the way the lure is fished is still important to fool the smallmouth into biting.