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Bass Season has started. It’s been a while since I wrote the last newsletter, but fishing has been non-existent, especially for bass. 

We have only been a handful of times since last year’s bass season. But luckily, we’ve been fortunate enough to find a few bass on those occasions. And because it’s only Marc,h what a bonus.

Last Years Bass Season Started Awful

We normally have a fair run of blanks at the beginning of the bass season, so could this be a sign of good things to come? 

Our debut session did not produce any of those beautiful bass. That particular venue we fished is normally a banker for catching bass. One solitary Dogfish for me, but two for my fishing mate Steve Wood. I would go as far as to say I can’t remember not catching at least one bass bait fishing at that venue.

It’s been a while since the last newsletter, but fishing has been non-existent, especially for bass. 

Lucky To Find Some Bass

We have only been a handful of times since last year. But luckily, we’ve been fortunate enough to find a few bass on those occasions. And because it’s only March, what a bonus.

We normally have a fair run of blanks at the beginning of the season, so could this be a sign of good things to come? 

Big Fat Blank First Time Out

Our debut session did not produce any of those beautiful bass. That particular venue we fished is normally a banker for catching bass—one solitary Dogfish for me but two for my fishing mate Steve Wood. I would go as far as to say I can’t remember not catching at least one bass bait fishing at that venue.

With the crabs peeling earlier than usual we figured that the bass would be there for sure. But like I mentioned very poor and only 3 Dogfish. Normally that venue is plagued with Dogfish. This was a big tide too so we were left scratching our heads…strange.

We discovered last year that we didn’t catch those pesky Dogfish when the water was smashing into the sea wall due to strong northerly winds. I had lost two crackers Bass fishing this type of scenario and not one Dogfish. Perhaps they just don’t like the rough seas close to the sea wall.

In the first session, we managed our first bass of the year. We were fishing a bay so fishing over the sand and light rock. This was another big tide so the water was out quite a way. This exposed a fairly rocky terrain but not that snaggy. There were channels and gullies exposed so this would be the perfect bass ground.

We fished for about 3 hours with dog after dog. We felt that the bass was just not here yet. Then would you believe it? Steve Wood landed his first bass of the year. Jammy git, I was calling him all the names under the sun (in jest) when all of a sudden my rod was arched right over while I was taking a picture of his fish. I struck and it was fish on. The bass was roughly 3lb and put back to fight another day.

Lure Fishing.

So after our bait fishing success, we had a very small window of southerly winds, and the sun had been out too. This is March, so happy days. So, on my taxi travels, I decided to randomly check on the water at one of our nighttime high-tide venues. What a surprise, the water was fairly clear, not ideal for night fishing with lures, but had to be worth a go for our first lure trip of the year. 

As we were fishing, we kept listening for those big splashes that normally tell us that the bass are around, especially at this venue. Peering down into the water it didn’t look as good as it did earlier at all. Then just as we were about to throw the towel in, bang! Steve Wood was into a fish. Ironically, he had just clipped on a brand new Momo lure, which is a copy of a Shimano Assassin lure. So that was him off the mark this year for a lure-caught bass. Like I mentioned earlier, we blanked on numerous occasions before we got off the mark last year. This year we’d caught an amazing first time. 

That was it after that wray of hope we buggered off shortly after that, debating on whether it was worth going the next night. Daytime fishing would have been a much better option, condition-wise, but work gets in the way…again. That’s life.

The next night, the temptation was too much, we just had to give it another crack. This time I had taken a lot more lures with me. Interesting though, normally chart or plain yellow lures seem to do the most damage at this venue but Steve Wood had caught his bass on a natural-looking lure the night before.

TBH what the hell is a bright yellow lure meant to resemble? 

The night dragged on pretty much the same as the previous night. Because it was such a crappy tide we were both mindful of the lures we’d been using. Even though we were fishing off the sea wall and well above the sea level, I still occasionally got snagged and could feel the lure catching the rocks on the retrieve.

Eventually, right on the high tide, I stuck the IMA Hound Glide 125 on, the bone chart one. This was a good lure for me, especially last year after losing my yellow Sonic. That lure seemed to crush it at this venue.

The funny thing is the Chart Bone looked the same bright yellow in the picture when I bought it off eBay. Then to my utter horror, it was bone colour when it turned up. But funnily enough, it worked well last year so on it went.

After a few casts BANG! Fish on! And it felt a good fish – stripping the line off my reel right from the off. This was a powerful fish. Then eventually we landed it in the drop net. The fish was a healthy fat thing and what a great start to the season. Happy days.

As usual, the condition changed again, and the water returned to mud. For us, it’s all about that window of opportunity you must try and take it when you can. Another couple of cast and I hit a snag and lost that battered hound. I went down the next day low tide to see if I could find it but no luck.

The Next Session The Bass Keep On Coming

As we previously mentioned our ever-changing conditions are a proper pan in the arse. But on this occasion, there was a small window in the weather. I’d done a daytime high tide water clarity check and it was fairly good. But not great. But the tide would be going out and coming back in again. So with the sun shining it could be game on.

What A Surprise In Store

So we ventured down to one of our nighttime venues at about 10 o’clock. It wasn’t the biggest of tides but the water was fairly clear but certainly not 100%.

We started fishing and after about 10 minutes Steve Wood was into a fish. Then before you know it, the bass had got off. Frustrating I know, to me, it looked like a good fish. Then sure enough, bang I was into a fish almost straight away. There was a shoal coming through but how long they would stay is another story. This fish was drop net material I wasn’t taking any risks this year. Knots and leaders checked after every fish. Losing lures is an expensive pastime.

We landed that bass, with no problem, coming in at a respectable 57cm. The only problem was the treble hooks and the fish were tangled up in the mesh of the drop net. As for productivity, this is something we need to revise the fish may not stick around. We don’t want to waste time mucking about. Eventually, the fish was back in the water free to fight another day.

Boom! Steve Wood was into a fish, hopefully, this one will stay on and that’s exactly what it did. Another one for the drop net. As we peered over to see the fish we realised this fish wasn’t worth risking reeling the bass straight over the prom.

More aggro though, the hooks had got tangled in the mesh again. Now it was Steve’s to to wrestle with the fish and the nightmare treble hooks tangled in the net. What’s more frustrating was the fact that you’d get one treble out only for another to get stuck in the mesh – again! Arrrrggghhhhh!!!!! Too much time being wasted.

After those two fish things seemed to slow up a few takes and that was it. Pondering on the drop net issue we decided to move to another spot.

Two Tips For Using A Drop Net

Tip 1: If you are using treble hooks go barbless. That way if you do get tangled up in the mesh it will be ten times easier to get them out.

Tip 2: Use Single hooks it’s a lot less hassle.

When we arrived at the new venue I decided to have a change in tactics (Tip 2). Yes, on went the Mishna Eel. Now with the exposed hook on the Mishna Eel, I wouldn’t risk using it fishing over the gnarly rocks from the previous mark. Yes – you could retrieve faster but I seem to have better success with a dead slow retrieve, especially at night.

The last bass season I had forgotten about the Mishna eel. But one night while we were fishing some deeper ground further around the coast I had a random idea about how I would fish. I stuck the Mishna Eel on and cast it out. The lure had hardly hit the water and I was onto a fish. What a result. I managed to get the fish in but the lure had split so it went back in the box.

Then I obviously ordered some more but the one that split had turned a yellow colour where it had been stuck in the lure box at home for so long.

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So, What Bass Lures Do I Use?

Choosing the right bass lure can make or break your fishing trip. Ever found yourself casting over and over with no takes? We’ve all been there, but don’t worry—this guide is going to help you fix that. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which bass lures work best in UK waters, no matter the conditions.

Bass are unpredictable, and picking the right lure is all about giving yourself the best possible chance of hooking one. From surface lures to soft plastics, we’ll cover everything you need to know to stock your tackle box with the perfect selection. And don’t worry if it feels like a lot to take in—there’s no need to overthink it. The best way to learn is by getting out there and fishing!

Section 1: Understanding UK Bass Fishing Conditions

Before you even think about which lure to use, you need to consider the conditions you’re fishing in. Bass are highly responsive to their environment, so factors like weather, water clarity, tides, and time of day all play a big role in whether they’re in the mood to bite.

Key Factors to Consider:

• • Weather Conditions: Overcast skies or bright sunshine can affect the fish’s activity levels. On a dull day, they may be more active near the surface, while bright, sunny conditions might push them deeper.

• • Water Clarity: Clear water calls for natural-coloured lures that blend in with the local baitfish. In murky waters, you’ll want something brighter or with a strong profile to stand out.

• • Tides: Tidal movement is huge in bass fishing. As the tide rises or falls, bass will follow the baitfish. Knowing the tide patterns can help you time your session for when the fish are feeding.

• • Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are prime times for bass, especially in the summer months. If you’re fishing at night, different lure colours and styles come into play.

Don’t let all this overwhelm you. The best way to learn how these conditions affect your fishing is through experience. Keep it simple at first, and as you start to recognize patterns, you’ll adjust your lures and techniques accordingly.

Section 2: The Best Bass Lures for UK Fishing

Bass fishing in the UK demands a versatile collection of lures, ready for any scenario the conditions might throw at you. Having the right tools for the job increases your chances of success, whether you’re targeting bass on the surface or diving deep. Let’s break it down:

Surface Lures

Fishing with surface lures is about as thrilling as it gets. There’s nothing like watching a bass explode on the water, chasing your lure. Surface lures are best for calm, millpond-like conditions, and early morning or late evening when bass are hunting near the top of the water.

• • Top 5 Surface Lures:
    • • Xorus Patchinko 125: Lightweight, great for calm water. You can’t go wrong with the 125 version.
    • • Savage Gear Sandeel Surf Walker: Casts like a missile and mimics a sand eel perfectly. Ideal for long casts and ‘walk-the-dog’ action.
    • • Tackle House Vulture: A favourite, especially in white. Its belly fin is unique—no one really knows why, but it works!
    • • Duo Pencil Popper: A versatile lure that works well even in tougher conditions.
    • • Xorus Frosty: Once you get the hang of its action, this one is a must-have for your tackle box.

When fishing with surface lures, a slow, steady retrieve with gentle rod taps (the ‘walk-the-dog’ action) tends to attract those big strikes. But remember, the conditions need to be right—calm water, early or late in the day, or even a bit of cloud cover.

Subsurface Lures

Subsurface lures are your go-to when the bass aren’t hanging around the surface but aren’t too deep either. These lures are great for covering more water and tend to dive just below the surface, staying out of reach of snags while tempting bass to strike.

• • Top 5 Subsurface Lures:
    • • IMA Komomo II: Perfect for shallow waters, with a subtle, lifelike action.
    • • Tackle House Feed Shallow: Great for clear water and a personal favourite for its glow belly that makes nighttime fishing a treat.
    • • IMA Hound 125F Glide: Known for its casting distance and ability to dive a little deeper, this one’s a winner.
    • • Samson Lures: Simple design but deadly, especially in clear water.
    • • Duo Realis Pencil: Great for slow days, this lure has been known to save the session when the bass are playing hard to get.

Subsurface lures let you cover ground quickly, so keep moving until you find where the bass are lurking. Try varying your retrieval speed—sometimes a slow, steady approach works, while other days they might want something more erratic.

Soft Plastic Lures

Soft plastics are incredibly versatile and one of the best options for UK bass fishing. These lures can mimic baitfish, crabs, and other forage. Paired with weighted or weedless hooks, soft plastics can be fished in shallow or deep water, giving you lots of options.

• • Top 5 Soft Plastics:
    • • Savage Gear Sandeel: A must-have. This one’s been known to catch when nothing else works.
    • • Megabass Dark Sleeper: Realistic and sneaky, especially good for fishing tight to the bottom.
    • • Fiiish Black Minnow: Its weedless hook design means you can fish confidently over rough terrain.
    • • Keitech Swing Impact: The subtle action on this is irresistible to bass.
    • • Z-Man StreakZ: Durable and buoyant, great for surface presentations in shallower waters.

Soft plastics shine when fished slowly, especially at night. Let them sink near the bottom, then use a slow retrieve with occasional twitches of the rod to mimic a distressed baitfish. This can be especially deadly near rocks or reefs.

Weedless Lures

Weedless lures are an absolute game-changer for fishing in rocky or weedy areas where traditional lures get snagged. Their hook design keeps them from getting tangled, making them ideal for those tricky spots where bass love to hide.

• • Top 5 Weedless Lures:
    • • Savage Gear Sandeel (Weedless Version): Designed to keep you out of snags while still being deadly effective.
    • • Fiiish Black Minnow: Mentioned earlier, but the weedless design makes it stand out in rough ground.
    • • Decoy Worm 128: Perfect for fishing over rocks or through thick kelp.
    • • Megabass Spark Shad: Another great option for fishing tight to structure without getting stuck.
    • • Z-Man DieZel MinnowZ: Tough and durable, great for working through weeds without worrying about hang-ups.

Weedless lures give you more freedom to fish areas that would otherwise be impossible, and bass love hanging around those spots. Just be patient and slow down your retrieve to maximize your chances of getting a hit.

Metal Lures

Metal lures are perfect when you need distance on your cast or when the bass are feeding deep. They’re great for windy conditions or when you need something that cuts through the water quickly.

• • Top 5 Metal Lures:
    • • Savage Gear Psycho Sprat: Great casting distance and gets deep fast.
    • • Dexter Wedge: A classic, simple but effective for covering a lot of water.
    • • Tsunami Pro Slimwave: Good for fast retrieves and deeper water.
    • • HART Shore Bait: Excellent casting and heavy enough for those blustery days.
    • • Maria Chase: Casts a mile and is perfect for deeper water or when bass are far out.

When fishing with metal lures, a steady retrieve with occasional pauses or jigs can mimic injured baitfish, which bass find hard to resist. These lures excel when fishing deeper water or when conditions aren’t perfect.

Medium and Deep Diving Lures

When the bass are hanging out in deeper water, medium and deep diving lures are your best bet. These lures are designed to get down quickly and stay at the target depth, ideal for fishing in gullies or over submerged rocks.

Top 5 Medium & Deep Diving Lures:

• • Megabass Zonk 120: This is one of my all-time favourites. It dives deep, has a great action, and catches big fish. Just be careful—this lure can get snagged if the water’s too shallow.

• • Rapala X-Rap: A classic that works well in deeper waters, with a strong diving action and a rattle that attracts bass from afar.

• • Blue Blue Bloowin: Known for its versatility and range, this lure is great when bass are hanging deeper.

• • Duo Tide Minnow: Perfect for medium depths and casts well. It’s an all-around performer.

• • IMA Sasuke 120: A deep diver that’s become a favourite for many, great for working in rougher conditions.

When fishing with medium and deep diving lures, it’s all about finding the right depth. Bass tends to sit just above structure or along drop-offs, so you’ll want to get your lure down to where they’re holding. A steady retrieve with occasional pauses works well to imitate a wounded baitfish.

Section 3: Choosing Lures Based on Time of Day and Season

The time of day and season can make a big difference when it comes to bass fishing. The same lure that works at sunrise might be completely ignored at noon, and what works in the summer could be useless in the colder months. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to adjust your lure selection depending on the time and season:

Daytime Lure Choices

During the day, especially when the sun is high, bass tend to retreat to deeper water or take shelter around the structure. In these conditions, diving lures, soft plastics, and weedless lures work best.

• • Clear Water: Natural-colored lures that imitate baitfish will be your best bet, especially in bright, clear conditions.

• • Murky Water: Go for brighter colours, something with a bit of flash or rattle to catch the attention of bass in low visibility.

Nighttime Lure Choices

Nighttime fishing can be incredibly rewarding, but the lure game changes when the sun goes down. Bass relies more on vibrations and contrasts to locate their prey, so darker lures or those with a strong profile tend to work best.

• • Clear Skies and Moonlight: Dark-colored lures like black or deep blue stand out against the sky, making them easier for bass to spot.

• • Cloudy Nights: White or chartreuse lures are great choices when there’s little light, helping bass see the silhouette of your lure against the dark water.

Seasonal Considerations

• • Spring and Summer: Bass are more active in warmer months, so surface and subsurface lures tend to perform well. Early morning and late evening surface lure fishing is especially productive during these times.

• • Autumn: As temperatures start to drop, you’ll want to slow down your presentation. Diving lures or soft plastics fished near the bottom can help entice less active fish.

• • Winter: Bass are less active in the colder months, so slower, finesse presentations are key. Soft plastics fished with a slow, steady retrieve tend to be most effective.

Adapting your lure choice based on the conditions will help you get more bites, no matter when or where you’re fishing.

Section 4: Special Lures and Techniques for Unique Scenarios

Different fishing spots demand different approaches, and the UK has a variety of environments that can challenge even the most experienced anglers. Whether you’re fishing off a rocky shore or in an estuary, having the right lures for the job will give you a serious advantage.

Rocky Shores

Bass love hanging around rocky shores, but these areas can also be a nightmare for snags. Weedless lures are ideal for this scenario because you can fish them confidently around rocks and kelp without worrying about getting stuck. Surface lures can also be highly effective when the tide is in and the water is calm.

• • Best Lures for Rocky Shores:
    • • Savage Gear Sandeel (Weedless Version)
    • • Fiiish Black Minnow
    • • Tackle House Feed Shallow

Estuaries

In estuaries, bass tends to follow the tide, feeding on baitfish and crustaceans that get caught in the current. Soft plastics and shallow-running lures are perfect for these spots. The key is to fish close to drop-offs and structures where the bass might be hiding.

• • Best Lures for Estuaries:
    • • Weighted Soft Plastics
    • • Shallow-running lures like the IMA Komomo II
    • • Jig Heads bounced along the bottom in the tide flow

The constant change in tide means that bass are always moving in estuaries, so keep adjusting your lure presentation and location as the water level changes.

Section 5: Final Tips and Recommendations

No matter how much you prepare, sometimes the bass just aren’t in the mood to bite. That’s all part of the fun (and frustration) of fishing! But by having the right lures, understanding the conditions, and staying patient, you’ll increase your chances of landing that prized bass.

Final Tips:

• • Experiment with Retrieve Speeds: Sometimes bass want a slow, lazy retrieve, and other times they’ll go after something faster and more erratic. Don’t be afraid to mix things up!

• • Keep Moving: If you’re not getting any bites in one spot, try another. Bass can be anywhere, and sometimes it’s just a matter of finding them.

• • Don’t Overthink It: There are thousands of lures out there, but don’t get bogged down by choice. Start with a few reliable ones and build from there.

Remember, the best way to get better at bass fishing is by getting out there and trying things for yourself. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and most importantly, enjoy the process!

Conclusion & Call to Action

And that wraps up our in-depth guide to choosing the best bass lures for UK waters. By now, you should have a solid understanding of which lures to use in different conditions, how to adapt based on time of day and season, and the best techniques for special locations like rocky shores and estuaries.

Got your own bass fishing tips or experiences to share? Drop a comment below, or check out our other blog posts on bass fishing techniques and gear reviews. Tight lines, and see you out on the water!

Top 5 Best Bass Spinners

Why We Use Soft Plastics

How to choose the best bass lures