March marks a pivotal period for bass fishing nationwide, transitioning into the crucial pre-spawn phase. While some southern regions might witness early spawning activity, and northern areas still await warmer conditions, this month generally signifies prime time for pre-spawn bass across a vast expanse of the United States. Successfully targeting bass during this period hinges on selecting the right lures and understanding their behavior as they prepare for reproduction.
A vibrating jig, commonly known as a ChatterBait, stands out as an exceptional choice for March bass. Its strong vibrations are highly effective in low-visibility water, helping bass locate the bait, and are proven to entice larger fish. The versatility of a blade jig allows it to be fished at varying depths and around diverse cover, from slow-rolling through submerged vegetation to quick retrieves near docks. Furthermore, its excellent skipping capability makes it superior to traditional options like squarebills and spinnerbaits when fishing around overhanging structures.
Floating worms, though less prominent in recent years, remain a highly effective bait, particularly as bass approach the final stages of pre-spawn. During this time, bass become intensely focused on spawning and can be challenging to catch with more aggressive presentations. A weightless floating worm, presented subtly at or just below the surface near shallow spawning grounds, offers a finesse approach that even finicky bass find difficult to resist.
For late March, particularly as fish are still bedding or just moving off beds, a walking-style hollow body frog proves incredibly effective. Unlike popping frogs favored later in the season for aggressive feeders, the subtle action of a walking frog is ideal for coaxing bites from pre-spawn bass. These baits excel when fished slowly and precisely around cover, making them perfect for targeting bass that are guarding beds or seeking refuge in shaded areas. The robust hooks on baits like the SPRO Bronzeye Frog 65 ensure that even large bass are securely hooked.
Swim jigs are another prime selection for March, especially in lakes abundant with vegetation. Bass often use thick vegetation as ambush points during their pre-spawn feeding frenzies. Rigging a swim jig, such as the Dirty Jigs No-Jack Swim Jig, and working it through water willow or lily pads can trigger powerful strikes. This technique is equally effective around woody cover and docks, with braided line recommended for vegetation and fluorocarbon for clearer water around isolated structures.
Illinois angler Trey McKinney emphasizes the effectiveness of a 6th Sense Provoke 97DD Jerkbait for clear water conditions in March, targeting bass from 5 to 15 feet deep near creek arm mouths, brush piles, or chasing bait. He also recommends a 5-inch Shindo for actively pursuing bass. For colder days and fishing grass edges, riprap, or rocks, McKinney suggests a 6th Sense PD4, a small crankbait from the Pressure Series, highlighting its ability to provoke bites when bass are less active.
Southern angler Jake Whittaker offers additional strategies, noting the transition from red-colored shallow-running crankbaits in late February to chartreuse as March progresses and water warms, especially in dingier water. He specifically highlights the chartreuse and black back Bill Lewis ATV Squarebill. Whittaker also champions vibrating jigs, particularly when paired with a Big Bite Kamikaze Swimon, for staging areas with boat docks, laydowns, and deeper creek sections. He contrasts vibrating jigs with spinnerbaits, preferring the former for active fish and the latter for bass tight to cover. Lastly, he advocates for a general jig, especially an Arkie style, in stained or dingy water during March, finding it excellent for extracting larger, lethargic bass from cover.
Overall, success in March bass fishing during the pre-spawn period is achieved through a diverse array of lures. From the vibrational allure of ChatterBaits to the subtle charm of floating worms, the strategic presentation of walking frogs, and the power of swim jigs, anglers have a wealth of options. Insights from seasoned professionals like Trey McKinney and Jake Whittaker further underscore the importance of adapting lure choices to specific water conditions, fish behavior, and local environments, ensuring a productive and rewarding fishing experience.