Now, before we get into the specifics, let’s set the stage for May. We’re talking about the transition from spring to summer, and this month is all about spawning fish and their post-spawn recovery. Up north, think places like Virginia and beyond, you’ve got fish on the beds, fish guarding fry, or just about to spawn. Even in upstate New York or Canada, you’ll find some pre-spawn action. Down south, places like South Carolina, Alabama, and Louisiana, it’s more about the post-spawn phase as the fish start moving towards deeper waters for the summer.
Alright, let’s kick things off with my top picks for the northern states. In the spawning areas up there, you can’t go wrong with smaller soft plastics rigged weightless or with a light weight. Picture yourself throwing a 4-inch soft stick bait, like the Berkley PowerBait General, rigged wacky style. It’s a killer move around spawning areas.
Not into bed fishing? No problem! Try a 4-inch French fry rigged Texas style, just make sure not to overpower it with a hook. And don’t sleep on the good old lizard! A 4 or 5-inch one, like the Berkley Power Lizard, Texas rigged, can be dynamite around spawning fish or those guarding fry.
So, the number two bait is one of the most under talked about phenomena: a popping frog. I’ve had days when I’m fishing around spawning areas where I can barely get a bite, but if I drop a Molix Pop Frog nearby, let is sit, and then pop it, I get bites. It looks alive and the fish are not used to seeing it. Basically I have three colored frogs: one with a white belly, one with a black belly and one that looks lmore like a bluegill
Now, down south, we’re looking at a different game. These bass are looking for a big meal after the spawn. One of my go-to’s is a walking-style topwater bait, like the Berkley J-Walker. Fish it around points and gravel bars for some exciting action. And don’t forget the popping frog! This is where you can really get creative with colors. Match the hatch around those bluegill beds for some explosive strikes.
Moving on, let’s talk about my second favorite for the southern states in May. It’s back to the lizard, but this time, we’re going bigger. Think 6 to 8 inches, Carolina rigged. Drag it around those deeper water breaks, grass lines, and points. Just make sure that flat side is facing down when you rig it, so it glides nicely along the bottom. It’s a simple but deadly technique, especially when paired with that walking bait.
So there you have it, my top four baits for the month of May, broken down for both the northern and southern parts of the country. Whether you’re targeting spawning fish up north or post-spawn bass down south, these baits are sure to put some hogs in the boat. Give ’em a try and let me know how you do out there on the water.
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