Where Do Bass Go After The Spawn? (And The Baits We Use To Catch Them)

As bass finish spawning they move out to deeper water. This begins one of the most predictable times of the year, and fish catching becomes easy! If this transition has confused you, we're here to help! We're going to show you how these fish move and how to get ahead of them so you can consistently catch fish.
Once bass back away from the shore they typically rest for a few days before beginning their transition. The pattern they follow differs slightly depending on the type of lake you're on, but the concepts apply equally to all of these locations. Once the bass have recuperated they typically split into two distinct groups. Some turn around and re-enter the shallows, while others run the pre-spawn stops in reserve on their way to outside, offshore structures.
Depending on the type of fishery you're on, the baits can differ dramatically. We primarily focus our time on faster moving, reaction baits, but we mix in a few bottom contact presentations as well. Below you'll find links to all the baits Matt discussed in the video. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.
TOPWATER...
•Megabass Pop Max: bit.ly/2qqfmm1
Colors: Aurora Reaction
•Megabass Giant Dog X: bit.ly/2yU84eE
Colors: Sexy French Pearl, Sexy Shad, Wagin Hasu 2
•Snagproof Bobby's Perfect Frog: bit.ly/3rHCOsQ
Color: Bluegill
UNDERSPINS...
•Dirty Jigs TacticalBassin Underspin: bit.ly/4bKgVQf
Size: 3/8 - 1/2 oz
•Owner Flashy Swimmer: bit.ly/2e8O4Y7
Size: 1/4 oz, 5/0 Hook
•Storm 3.5" Largo Shad: bit.ly/3vxP0NB
Colors: Albino Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl
•Xzone 4.75" Swammer: bit.ly/2PogV0q
Colors: Electric Shad, Pro Blue Red Pearl
CRANKBAITS...
•Strike King 6XD: bit.ly/2ery44M
Colors: Sexy Shad, Chartreuse Sexy Shad
•Nomad D Trak 65: bit.ly/4a5wAYX
Colors: Sexy Shad, Citrus Shad
•River2Sea Tactical DD 75: bit.ly/37dclbX
Colors: Summer Minnow, Chartreuse Blue, Metallic Shad
SOFT JERKBAIT...
•Xzone Whiplash Shad: bit.ly/3IpMKQo
Colors: Pro Blue Red Pearl, Electric Shad
•Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Superline EWG: bit.ly/4bbBuDW
Size: 4/0
NOSE HOOKED FLUKE...
•Zoom Super Fluke: bit.ly/2aqys0H
Colors: Albino, Smokin Shad
•Owner CPS Spring: bit.ly/2b2YgDf
Size: Medium
•Gamakatsu Finesse Wide Gap: bit.ly/2aKGmHM
Size: 1/0
SHAKEY HEAD...
•Netbait T Mac Worm: bit.ly/2jndwj9
Colors: Junebug, Bama Bug
•Dirty Jigs Canterbury Shakey: bit.ly/2aFOs0V
Size: 3/16 oz
YAMATANUKI...
•Yamamoto Yamatanuki: bit.ly/3lZaMe3
Colors: Green Pumpkin Blue, Green Pumpkin Black
•Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Superline EWG: bit.ly/4bbBuDW
Size: 4/0
WOBBLE HEAD...
•Dirty Jigs Pivot Point Football: bit.ly/2jOY1Ns
Size: 1/2 oz with 4/0 Hook, 3/4 oz with 5/0 Hook
•Xzone Adrenaline Craw: bit.ly/3ebTO5h
Colors: Junebug, Dark Junebug
BUDGET ALL AROUND CASTING ROD...
Rod- St. Croix Bass X 7'4" Heavy Fast: bit.ly/3A5CFSU
Reel- Daiwa Fuego CT: bit.ly/35hugfH
Line- Sufix 832 Braid (40 lb): bit.ly/2ae93Ji
Leader- Seaguar Blue Label (15 lb): bit.ly/48EP2Hz
BUDGET CRANKBAIT COMBO...
Rod- Shimano Intenza 7'2" Medium Heavy Mod Glass: bit.ly/49VWq0N
Reel- Shimano SLX XT 150 (HG): bit.ly/2BRTYL8
Line- Sunline FC 12 lb: bit.ly/2h4LNjm
TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)
We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to hats and hoodies! Its all available direct through Tackle Warehouse with fast shipping. See it here...
TacticalBassin Lure Designs: bit.ly/38YpPIz
_________________________________________________________________
*MAJOR EQUIPMENT WE USE DAILY...
Boat- Skeeter FXR 21: bit.ly/43GvGQh
Motor- Yamaha VMAX SHO 250 HP: bit.ly/3xolFv0
Trolling Motor- Minn Kota Ultrex Quest: bit.ly/41RErpY
Electronics- Humminbird Apex 13: bit.ly/3pdaK1q
Anchors- Minn Kota Raptors: bit.ly/3iMUrEJ
Camera- GoPro Hero 12: bit.ly/3MwQToy
*FAVORITE TOOLS AND GEAR…
Favorite sunglasses: bit.ly/3cLH0kl
Favorite Pliers: bit.ly/3xJFwTu
Favorite Rod Cover: bit.ly/3UewJEx
Favorite life jacket: bit.ly/2odXXIP
Favorite Scale: bit.ly/2f7QgQ9
Favorite Lure Retriever: bit.ly/2TLTJc6
Favorite Braid Cutters: bit.ly/35KSp3O
Favorite Split Ring Pliers: bit.ly/2fT4Qw0
Favorite Storage Box: bit.ly/3U9y4cl
Favorite Net: bit.ly/3kdZ3kA
________________________________________________________________
If you plan to do any shopping, using our links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won't be able to even see a difference but they'll know you're one of us!
#postspawn #fishing #bassfishing

[@StevenR_Fishing]

They go in my livewell a little more often thanks to you guys! haha

[@Jon_Boat_Fishing]

Best comment I've seen for awhile 😂 ... and accurate!!

[@dant8213]

So true 👍 😅

[@richardbossman9875]

And then hopefully back into the water...

[@davidrussell9290]

​​@@richardbossman9875 Slot limits help fisheries and produce bigger bass. The catch and release craze has hurt fishing. It's okay to keep some bass, and it produces bigger bass.

[@ambassin3280]

Round of applause for Matt and Tim they have given us a masters degree of bass fishing. Thank you guys

[@gregorygreen7789]

I seriously wish I could make an album of all the Big's they've helped me catch the past few years. TB is the Bass Fisherman's Bible

[@darrinsloppieejoefranklin6511]

HEY, GUYS, WHY NOT DO A BANK FISHING VIDEO. FOR THOSE OF US WHO DON'T OWN A BOAT AND THE TOP FIVE BAITS TO USE. THANK YOU

[@ratbird3290]

chill out. They just did a bank fishing video. All of The content applies to bank fishing. How do I know because I’ve been watching these guys for years and applying it to bank fishing. Get creative.

[@darrinsloppieejoefranklin6511]

@ratbird3290 Haven't seen that video. Nice 2 know they did one

[@umairfaizuddin3429]

Frog, chatterbait, jig, wacky senko, free rig. Thank me later 🤙🏼

[@Tbowie13]

So I caught a shad spawn on Bull Shoals a couple weeks ago. I really thought a spinner bait would work, but they didnt want it. A lipless was the business for me during that spawn, and I blistered them!

[@gregorygreen7789]

Ah yes, the Bass Fisherman's Gospel. Can't give you two enough credit for all the fish I've caught because of y'all!

[@Texaslivinoutdoors]

One bait I love this time of year is a black zoom lizard with a blue tail, Texas rig, Carolina rig, wobble head pretty much anywhere you like to fish plastics

[@TWC6724]

You guys are the best. Thanks for covering all of these types of lakes.

[@uniq7778]

I needed this video thank you this is my first year really bass fishing and your videos help out so much. I was so lost on was they would follow but not eat but now I know they needed about 2 weeks

[@idkwhattomakemyname101]

The video when being sped back or forth is one of the hardest most intense dance you’ve ever seen.

[@augustjensen3273]

😂😂😂😂

[@javi_703]

Caught a 6lber last month bc of your videos. Changed my trailer from a rage crawl to paddle tail on a jig.

[@ryanbroughton5174]

Just ordered 5 of the tactical underspins from Tackle Warehouse and can't wait to try them out.

[@jdove39]

One big difference between Matt and Tim, if Matt sees a fish blow up while recording, hell mention it and keep on talking. If Tim sees that, he's gonna make a cast at that thing!!! Thanks for another great, informative video. You guys are the best!!! 💪🏾👍🏾🤌🏾🎣

[@creekfreak8936]

I appreciate your channel. Thank you for the in depth information!

[@haydenbarnett4491]

They go hiding from me. Not just post spawn but year round😅😂

[@Bassfishertv]

Love it, can’t wait to apply to my next videos

[@holmeselectric9]

This might be my favorite video

[@rhodesianhunter9360]

Gotta night fish the shad spawn. If you’re on the bank look for shallow water with sand and small gravel banks, bring lights with you and set them next to bank…don’t move them. Just wait for midnight and they’ll start boiling. It’s also the best way to cast net shad for catfish bait

[@justinlamb19]

Love the videos. Watch almost every one. What type of lake is my local lake? Lake Wylie SC/NC

[@cover6customs]

Hey guys! I found you on Rumble but not under Tacticalbassin. I would use the same channel name if possible. I think it would ad to the viewers and help create a stronger base and new revenue stream. Keep up the great work!

[@TWC6724]

Since you’re in Tennessee, have y’all fished Watauga Lake yet? Would love to see that video.

[@johncatelli8767]

Guy, not blowing smoke, you have taught me as Doug Hannon did!

[@Tylerbone96]

Here in DFW we got Bois D’Arc that just opened a few weeks ago, it’s been a slug fest on those fish! Went out there on Saturday on the kayak and hammered them almost nonstop the whole time!

[@Mjones8383]

Its like they've never seen a bait before😂

[@captnse]

The post spawn fish are very difficult to catch at my shoreline only fishing ponds….If most of the bass, as you say, go out to the deeper areas of the lake after the spawn, that explains why everyone at my local pond has an extremely difficult time catching bass during late April thru May….we just can’t reach the fish that are more than 250 ft offshore….but once the weed starts to grow and reaches the surface in areas around the lake, the topwater bite picks up and the bass start to get within reach again for our shoreline only fishing spots.

[@codycollins8045]

You guys should fish the St Lawrence sometime for some smallies now that your on the east coast!

[@Mjones8383]

They go in the fryer after because they are easier to catch for me. Them 2lb and under taste gooooooood

[@brians.4488]

What kind of rod action do u like fishing a wobble head . Is a somewhat stout football jig bottom contact rod to stiff?

[@hicklifeoutdoors339]

I've been eager to re-engage with bass fishing and deepen my understanding beyond basic techniques like using a plastic worm with splitshot. In my pursuit, I've been exploring budget-friendly gear options and have developed an appreciation for the technology and value associated with higher-priced equipment. Currently, I'm considering investing in the Aird X Medium Heavy Fast Action rod, measuring 7'3" in length, which is designed to accommodate lure weights ranging from 1/4 to 1 ounce. However, I find myself unfamiliar with selecting the appropriate braided line for this setup as I have traditionally used mono on all my reels. I am interested in transitioning to braided line and seek guidance on the suitable weight for an all-purpose rod. Additionally, I'm curious about the necessity of switching between different types of leaders when changing lures on the water. I understand that this rod combination is versatile, suitable for various techniques including Texas rigging, jigging, topwater lures, buzzbaits, frogging, and even medium-sized swimbaits. I appreciate the valuable content you produce and encourage you to continue your excellent work.

[@allenlee6909]

Dedicated videos!!

[@mikedawson7764]

What about if your lake doesn't have main lake ledges, long points, or anything off shore? Wilson lake on the tva. Basically a bowl

[@Swifty365]

Hey man I’ve just got back into fishing after a long while. Recently moved to a great place for bass and walleye fishing in a river. Would you be able to make a video on river fishing? Specifically high current areas? Trying my best to figure out a good rod/reel setup and a good lures to use thanks.

[@DemetriSchaefer-ew7ot]

Hey Swifty I know what it’s like trying to learn a new body of water, and if you’ve never fished a river much than even worse on just a normal spring to summer day my normal arsanel is s bout three baits, a Tube, swim jig or a small to med swim bait, target wood boulder or any current disturbance wether it be from a rock a log or the down river side of a sharp bend good luck hope you catch ‘em…

[@Swifty365]

Just pickup a nice bluegill swim jig, some minnow swim baits and some senkos and im going out this weekend wish me luck!

[@toad465]

I used to use the Slider head on Table Rock years ago doing similar to this Hover Rig your talking about. I can only assume it is a line twisting nightmare like the Slider Head is. Any tips on countering this side affect?

[@adamkoepke1366]

I know this is probably a loaded question and one that you've answered numerous times, but what 2 or 3 rods would you tell a weekend fisherman to own if they wanted to be able to throw the most variety of baits and lures?

[@samuelsellers3829]

Lake Hartwell was ruff last week we had to drag Carolina rigs off shore for spotted bass

[@headbangerscloset8552]

I've been using a shad colored spinnerbait and pulling in a bunch of bass for the last couple weeks. However now it seems that bite has stopped. Any other baits I can go to as it seems they are now used to seeing spinnerbait.

[@budstone7948]

i noticed you are using Apex units are they worth the money over the Solix i am going to buy a new boat and i want to put the right stuff on it. so let me know what you like and don't like about your electronics.

[@idontstunt2613]

Can you talk more about natural lakes in the future

[@davidcrump2348]

Prove it to us. I want to see it while catching them. Especially those giants you catch!

[@krisramos7453]

I saw water 55-63 this weekend here but the fish are still closer to winter spots than spawn. Idk what's going on this year

[@bertparod4748]

Don't forget strip mine lakes, in Illinois we have a lot of em.

[@Tbowie13]

Matt, why on earth would a shakeyhead not blister fish when they are eating a Neko rigged Zoom Trick Worm? I have a place I fish that they drill the Neko rigged, Black, Zoom Trick worm. But I have tried numerous times to switch to a Shakeyhead to preserve worms as they dont get torn up as fast on a SH, but the bite slows dramatically ever time Ive done that. I don't understand why?

[@livewire2k4]

conditioned fish, my guess. They have probably seen a shakey head millions of times.

[@Tbowie13]

@livewire2k4 That could be. It is pressured!

[@melvinmariott8609]

This time of year I use flipping jigs swimjigs and big swimbaits

[@drj3033]

Just starting in Colorado ! On beds yesterday

[@richardbossman9875]

I’ve never asked this but my home water may apply to this, what if my home water has no depth greater than like 8 ft. Do the bass still divide or will they all act like all shallow fish or will some sit on the bottom in the deepest water while the rest get in cover?

[@tagg946]

from my experience fishing shallow ponds and whatnot around indiana, most of those fish position the same way they would any other time of the year unless its just dead cold, then theyll just sit at the bottom with their bellies in the mud if they cant go anywhere else. ive caught tons of fish off small rock piles, trees, and riprap in 2-6 feet of water in the heart of winter.

[@xDx0xUxGx]

I've watched several of these videos and I still have no idea what type of lakes I fish. Any way possible you guys could glance at Google and help me figure it out?

[@fishing630addictionjcmg4]

Lest go first

[@chriscurtis8577]

Play Red fish and earlier today and I used a shadow beat and I caught a rock bass this year

[@hospitaldelavadorasyrefris5104]

But when the water level is changing on that transition pspwn..... what happen...please help me out ..🥴🥴🥴🥴🥴😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@holmeselectric9]

How are we supposed to target those fish hugged oup on rocks if we cant see them with livescope and we have a scrolling sonat like a regular Garmin,

[@tacticalbassin]

We've always just fished for them. Remember, we've been doing this for decades, and live is new. It only takes a few casts to identify if active fish are in an area.

[@kusland6786]

Matt’ you must assume that some bass identifies as hard cover and the others as deep water, and raise the flag on your boat they will come at you, easy !

[@scottiestanford4910]

I have a 33k acres lake near me that is highly pressured. If you want a new lake to try and break down then I got a good one in Mississippi.

[@morganvanschuyver]

I live in ocean springs fishing is rough in this state. I'm going to check out Bill Waller this weekend. Heard there is giants in there.

[@scottiestanford4910]

@@morganvanschuyver had a tournament on ross Barnett this past weekend and it was extremely tough

[@morganvanschuyver]

@@scottiestanford4910 it doesn't seem like the state manages it's fisheries very well down here. That and they're few and far in-between. Kinda sad honestly. I know there's more fisheries in northern MS but there's nothing down here in southern MS. Went to Paul b Johnson last Saturday, waste of time.

[@joshuagray6743]

Anyone still use the banjo minnow?

[@glennrudolph]

Hey comment friends, I need help! I am new to freshwater fishing and I have been pond fishing in my neighborhood a ton lately. Yesterday, I caught pretty good size large mouth bass in a smaller pond, about 3.5lbs on a chatterbait. When I got him to the bank, the line broke at the lure and he went back into the water with the 1/4oz chatterbait hanging in its mouth. Is there any chance I will be able to catch him again at some point to get it out of his mouth, or will he eventually just die? It’s making me sick to think about. Thanks guys

[@livewire2k4]

the fish probably shook that bait loose within a few minutes.

[@timdarnell7819]

He'll shake it loose or it'll rust out eventually. As long as it's not down his throat, non-issue.

[@glennrudolph]

@@livewire2k4 ok dumb question here, but how would he shake it loose if it’s hooked in there good?? I mean, sometimes I have to grab a pair of pliers just to take a hook out of a fish’s mouth, ya know? I’m not doubting you..I’m legitimately asking.

[@livewire2k4]

@@glennrudolph the same way he/she shakes you off if you have loose line. I hear ya, and they won't always shake it loose right away. If it is in there good like you're talking, then the wound has to fester for a day or two, then the tissue becomes soft and it falls right out. then they heal and keep on going on.

[@glennrudolph]

@@livewire2k4 interesting. I didn’t know it got soft like that. I appreciate your help.

[@PHATBASSASSASSIN]

Is this the same for spotted bass?

[@zekethefishgeek8690]

Negative Ghostrider

[@livewire2k4]

Yes, keep fishing those spinners,chatters, swimjigs, walkers, jigs and texas rigs. Leave the swimbaits and wake baits for me! =)

[@morganvanschuyver]

And me too.

[@zekethefishgeek8690]

I like throwin' a big ol' glide bait around myself...

[@dontnonowuno9953]

Me three!!

[@keithcarcaterra1824]

what depths are considered “shallow”?

[@zekethefishgeek8690]

7 or less...

[@speeddeamon188]

come to Big paw paw lake MI ,it breaks all the rules, put your skills to the test

[@parrothead5977]

I’ll never understand how it is that like right now I’m watching this vid. The vid has almost 10,000 views but only 900 and change likes. Hit the like button fishing friends. 🤙🤙👍

[@dariusking2927]

Wobble and junebug 🤫🤫🤫😂

[@randallrandolph4977]

Does bass eat Crappy?

[@zekethefishgeek8690]

100% & they seem to prefer crappie over bluegill and other sunfish...

[@SSF-ROME]

Been a terrible year fishing lol. Starting to feel like I have pissed off the fish gods.

[@shawnalexander7914]

Was it just me or was anyone else thinking A-rig the entire time

[@stuckonthebank]

More frustrating for bank fisherman

[@ReactionGiants]

Whiplash and 1/8 cps 5/0

[@reallifelucasblack]

Don’t tell them about the wobble… shhhhhhh

[@schuylerhecht8253]

Im in NE PA theyre still on their beds here and only came into the creeks and shallows from main bodies of water 2 weeks ago

[@rhodesianhunter9360]

Smallmouth?

[@schuylerhecht8253]

@rhodesianhunter9360 this week I only pulled in large..I find the smallies come in a couple weeks after the Large mouths... smallie creek fishing is fun!... I use a 1/16th jig and a paddle tail on a 6lb test....man it's a fun fight on a light action rod