Shimano
2.08m
5–21 g · 6–14 lb
bass · Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth bass
An ambush predator that hits lures hard around weed, trees and drop-offs. The reason most people buy a baitcaster.
Stylised illustration, not to scale.
Baits
- Soft plastic worm
- Crankbait
- Spinnerbait
- Topwater popper
- Jig
- Habitat
- Warm, still water in dams and slow rivers. They hold close to cover: weed beds, flooded trees, rocks, jetties and sudden changes in depth.
- Season
- Active in the warmer months and slower in winter, when they move deeper and take smaller, slower presentations.
- Best times
- Early morning, late afternoon and overcast days. Low light draws them into the shallows.
- Tackle
- A 6 ft 6 in to 7 ft 2 in rod, a baitcaster or a 2500 spinning reel, and 8 to 14 lb mono, fluorocarbon or 10 to 20 lb braid.
- Hook
- 2/0 to 4/0 offset worm hook for soft plastics, or the treble hooks that come on the lure.
Tips
Cast to cover and work the lure slowly past it.
Change colour and depth before you change spots.
Wet your hands before you handle a fish you plan to release.
Rules
Bass are an introduced species in South Africa. Many anglers release them, but rules and permits differ by province and by water, so check before you fish.
This site is not an official source. Check the current rules with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
Recommendations are pending review by a local angler.
Rigs
Rigs that suit largemouth bass
Gear
Gear for largemouth bass
Shimano
2.03m
7–28 g · 10–20 lb
Ugly Stik
1.98m
7–28 g · 8–17 lb
Ugly Stik
1.98m
5–21 g · 6–14 lb