November bass fishing can be surprisingly productive. Not only is it possible to catch a lot of fish, but it is also a good time to catch trophy sized bass. Though it does not get as cold in the trophy bass areas of Florida and California, seasonal changes in these areas will also impact the largemouth living in these warmer areas. While the tips in this article are mainly intended for those pursuing largemouth bass, the tips will also help with smallmouth bass and other game fish as well.
Hot Spots
Baitfish will gather into tight schools as the mercury falls. These small groups will mean that bass will target a specific area looking for food. When an angler catches a bass in a specific area, he or she should continue to carefully fish that area as other largemouth bass are likely in the nearby area as well. Look for these schools of bait fish in deep water and in creek mouths.
Fish the Sun
A November warm front will often trigger bass to strike. On those unseasonably warm days with bright sunlight, the bass may be found moving into shallow water to feed. This is due to shallow water warming more quickly than the deep water. The warmer water will attract baitfish and draw the bass. Minnow imitations and bait cast into the shallows on a warm November day can result in some of the best fishing of the year. Though these days are few and far between, an angler should keep an eye on the forecast and be on the water if the temperature is predicted to rise significantly.
Bait Fish
The use of live bait is effective for largemouth bass year around, but is a particularly good choice in the cold weather of November. Soft striking bass that may not get hooked on an artificial lure will continue to feed on live bait making a hook up more likely. Catch and release anglers need to be careful to get the hook set to avoid having the bass swallow the hook. In addition to using bait, artificial lures that contain scents or the use of a spray on attractant can also help to encourage cold weather largemouth to strike and hold onto a lure.
Sharp Hooks
Keeping your hooks sharp is always important, but it is even more important in cold weather. As the bass may be sluggish, having a sharp hook will increase your odds of hooking that bass than does not hit your lure energetically. Small hook sharpeners are inexpensive and easy to carry. They can even be attached to a zipper pull or a lanyard for quick touch ups on the bank or boat.