Spring Bass Fishing in Alabama: Understanding Spawning Patterns for Big Bites
Alabama Bass Biology
The bass spawning process is heavily influenced by the moon cycles and water temperature, which can vary slightly depending on the type of bass. Throughout the spring, you’ll notice the water temperatures shifting, and that’s when those spawning waves kick in, especially in the Southeast and Southwest, where things warm up more gradually.
Both full and new moons can stir things up, but the full moon gets the bass buzzing! The bright light lends them a hand, allowing them more time to scout the best nesting spots. You’ll often find that the first or second full moon that matches the proper water temperature brings in the biggest rush of spawning action, with loads of bass joining in.
Chasing the Fun Fish on the Coosa River
When the smallmouth bass are busy nesting in Alabama’s Coosa River, my first thought is to target some largemouth bass instead. Those green fish are usually still in their pre-spawn stage, making them way more eager to bite! Most all-in largemouth anglers avoid the Coosa River once the smallmouth starts nesting. Instead, we explore some fantastic largemouth spots along the river while we wait for the smallmouth to finish spawning.
This time of year is perfect because those largemouth bass are generally still in their pre-spawn stage and ready to bite! And while the smallmouth will be on the post-spawn side of things, it’s a great chance to enjoy some quality fishing time together. Just another reason to love the great outdoors and all the fishing adventures that come with it!
Looking for Summer Patterns
This usually works better toward the end of the spawn or after the first real wave of spawning is finished in Alabama. This is the time of year when the grass starts growing taller, and many of the area boat docks hold feeding fish. Remember that Bluegills are not good to have around when bass are nesting. Bluegills are known to eat bass eggs.
It’s one of the few species bass will react to and chase out of their territory. During this time, a great bait that imitates bluegill is a swim jig matched with a trailer to match the size of the bluegill in that water body.
Those larger post-spawn females are usually exhausted after spawning and unwilling to chase a bigger bait, which requires some finesse.
Roaming Fish
As the waters warm, bass roam the shallows, preparing for their spawning rituals. Males often seek out the perfect nesting spots, while females move in to contemplate their own spawning plans. This is the ideal time to capitalize on this activity with shallow crankbaits. The sound of a square-bill crankbait being retrieved quickly—banging against rocks and brush—creates a commotion that the bass can’t resist.
In Alabama’s rivers and lakes, finesse fishing becomes increasingly essential, particularly for targeting smallmouth bass. With a long cast and a slow, steady retrieve, it can entice big smallmouth bass looking for an easy snack, even when they aren’t actively nesting.
While the spawning period can bring challenges, it also presents countless opportunities for anglers willing to explore their options. Many seasoned fishermen remind us to stay curious and search different areas, for many big fish aren’t on nests during the spawn.
By experimenting with various techniques and baits, you’ll likely uncover hidden gems and discover just how willing Alabama’s bass are to strike. With every cast into the state’s target-rich waters, you’re setting the stage for a satisfying day on the water. If you found this article helpful and you want to learn more, CLICK HERE TO BOOK a bass fishing trip with one of our many professional guides.
