Making a move from one spot to another can suddenly put an angler on biting bass! Or in some cases staying put and waiting for the bass to come to you, can be just as rewarding.
So how does an angler recognize each situation and know what to do at the right time? Its all up to you. Think over the conditions first. Look at each situation carefully.
During spring on Guntersville lake the shallow water is warming each day. But there are also still some cold mornings, when these slightly lethargic bass are not all that active.
So each day presents a set of circumstances, that will either make individual bass become very active or it may induce a whole school of bass to move shallow and feed, or induce them to make a bed, or during post-spawn times, they may be protecting the bed from intruders.
Look around you. Is the water stained? Is it very muddy? Or is it exceptionally clear? Always keep in mind, clear water holds skittish bass and it warms the slowest. Stained water or even muddy water, heats up faster than clear water.
Stained water also gives shallow bass a sense of security, allowing them to roam the shallows without fear of being seen or detected by the prey they are after.
So staying put, may mean looking for baitfish activity, bass busting and off-colored water in your area and a least a few active bass, getting a few bites at least to help boost your confidance level.
Also monitor your surface temperature guage, this is the most important time of the year to seek out the warmest water available...just like the bass your after!
If you decide to move, leaving a spot you just know holds bass, don't go far. Have some back up holes nearby. Always return later to see if they are active or if a huge school of big bass has suddenly moved in.
Otherwise you may never know. " Should you stay or should you go? " The decision is up to you!
Thanks and Good Fishin'
Reed Montgomery Owner of Reeds Guide Service Birmingham, Alabama (205) 663-1504. "Guntersville Lake's oldest, professional guide service for over 40 years"