During the month of September there are a lot of changes that take place on the water.
First, the water temperature usually drops from the low 80s (degrees) to the low 70s. Second, when this temperature drops, the shad move into shallower water (1-6’) and the bass are right behind them with big appetites.
The most effective way to determine when the water temperature will start falling is by watching the night air temperatures. The day air temperature is not the temperature that you should keep your eye on; it is the night temperature that will give you an idea of when the water temperature begins to fall. When the night air temperature falls into the 50s for a few consecutive days, the water temperature will fall fast. Once it lowers into the low 70s. the fish become very active.
As the water temperature falls, you want to begin searching shallow flats and other shallow areas adjacent to deep water. Look for schools of shad that are roaming the surface and possibly scattering from hungry bass chasing them.
From my experience, the best lures to catch these bass are spinnerbaits, crankbaits and topwater plugs. I have also found that the bass like an erratic, stop-and-go retrieve. When you find this type of activity, you can fish these concentrations of fish for a while; they usually stay active for hours.
While writing this column, I can’t believe that it is September already. It seems like just yesterday I was writing about the water warming into the 60s and the fish moving up to spawn.
I hope this information helps you on your next fishing trip. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact me at brian@briancarper.com.