Stumps have seven different casting targets.
Stump Tops
Stump tops are hardly ever fished, but in the spring of the year under certain conditions bass will actually spawn on top of stumps that have at least two feet of water over them. Visible stumps can often be-sight fished- by anglers with good sunglasses. Cruise the stump rows and look for stumps with fish on top of them and cast a soft plastic bait right up on the top of the stump. The fish may move away when the lure touches down, but usually come right back. When the fish returns move the lure ever so slightly, this usually triggers a strike.
Sides of Stumps
The sides of stumps are what anglers usually cast to, but not enough anglers take into consideration which side of the stump the bass may be relating to. Bass can be influenced by wind direction, current and shade. Most times bass will face into the current or wind and waves. The current brings bait fish right to the bass. Fish the windy side of the stump first, then try the other side. If there is shade on one side of the stump or other, fish the shaded side first.
Front and Back of Stumps
Casting to the front of a stump is easy, sometimes it's a good idea to actually cast so the lure strikes the stump and bounces off. This can generate a reflex strike from even inactive bass. The backs of stumps calls for up-close work. Move close to the stump and pitch or flip a bait to the rear of the stump. If a strike occurs set the hook and crank hard to drag the fish over the stump. Fish that hold behind stumps will often run under the stump. There is a tap root that supports the stump even though the earth has all washed away from the base of the stump. Fish can and will wrap around the tap root and dislodge the hook or break the line.
Root Systems
All stumps have root systems and bass love to lie beside the roots or get under them to ambush prey. A good way to estimate how far a root system runs is to find a standing tree with a similar diameter. Now look up at the tree where the limbs reach the farthest. However wide the branches reach is how wide the stump roots will spread from the stump. Stump roots can offer a wealth of fishing cover and can be fished with search baits such as spinnerbaits or crankbaits to speed up fish location.
Stump fishing can be exciting and productive through all seasons of the year. In spring and fall look for stumps in shallow water, during the colder months seek stump rows in deep water. Fish of all species relate to wood cover. Try a variety of lure and speeds to determine how active the fish are and exactly where on the stump they are located.
 |
