Spring patterns are shifting fast, and this video shows exactly how to stay on prespawn bass. Chad Garton starts the day graphing a small reservoir. Water temperatures continue to rise, which pushes fish shallow. As a result, bass move toward rock-heavy main lake points.
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Finding Prespawn Bass With Electronics
First, Garton idles and scans key points. He targets transitions where rock meets sand or mud. These edges consistently hold fish during the prespawn phase. Additionally, he positions the boat just outside snag-prone rock piles. Instead of casting directly into cover, he parallels the edges. This approach reduces hang-ups and keeps fish undisturbed. As a result, he maintains a stealthy presentation while maximizing casts.
Jerkbait and Jig Presentation Strategy
Next, Garton breaks down casting angles. One angler casts parallel to the rock edge. Meanwhile, another works a shorter cast off the drop. This combination covers active and neutral fish. The jerkbait shines in this situation. Fish often suspend just off the rock edge. Therefore, working the bait with long pauses triggers reaction strikes. Many bites occur as the bait leaves the rock and enters softer bottom areas. At the same time, a jig excels when worked down the rock face. Hopping it off the edge mimics natural forage. Consequently, bass holding tight to structure react quickly.
Targeting Big Prespawn Females
As the sun rises, the bite improves. Big prespawn females slide onto shallow rock to warm up. Wind-blown banks increase the odds even more. Patience becomes critical here. Long pauses with a jerkbait often trigger the biggest bites. This pattern remains reliable throughout the prespawn window. Focus on rock, clean transitions, and precise casts. Then, adjust cadence until fish commit.
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