Largemouths from small waters
Many of the smaller waters in NWPA have the ability to produce some big largemouth bass. These fish may not grow as big as the behemoths of warmer climates/bigger waters, but light fishing pressure can lead to respectable sized largemouths.
The Gravel Pits in Fairview, smaller inland lakes, game land ponds, farm ponds, and even golf course ponds, can have good sized largemouth bass cruising in the water. A few years back, Lake Pleasant, in Erie County, produced a dandy largemouth that was over ten pounds.
During the hottest days of summer, bass will look for refuge in shaded areas where the temperature can be several degrees cooler or near thermoclines in deeper lakes. I’ve found largemouths near sunken logs, under lily pads, and congregated in the shade of a big willow tree on a hot sunny day. Besides thermal refuge, underwater structure also provides a good ambush point for a big bass.
Drifting golden shiners along the outside edges of weeds and drop-offs can bring a big bass to strike. Pitching a pig and jig combo near boat docks can produce strikes also. Slowly bringing a weedless frog or rat through the vegetation is another good tactic. Sight fishing for cruising bass can keep you in the action if the water is clear and shallow. Try a rubber worm, or even the real thing to catch these fish. Never count out a spinnerbait, jitterbug, or a floating rapala’s ability to catch big largemouths either.
Try these tactics on smaller waters this month for big largemouths. Having several rods rigged with a variety of lures will save you time when switching presentations. When the weeds are thick, I like to use 12lb monofilament line for added strength. Many anglers prefer braided fishing lines in the thick stuff. I prefer the feel, stretch, and castability of monofilament lines. With so much pressure on the larger waters by boaters and other fishermen this time of year, it may be a good idea to try the smaller waters for big largemouths.
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