How to Fish Chesapeake Bay: Best Patterns & Techniques

Chesapeake Bay

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: Jun 1, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Chesapeake Bay

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Pre-spawn bass actively feeding while transitioning from winter areas to spawning flats, staging on key structure Fish moving between deeper staging areas and shallow feeding zones, influenced by tidal movements	Docks adjacent to spawning flats, particularly those offering deeper water access Matted grass and submerged vegetation edges Laydowns and woody cover in pre-spawn staging areas	Bladed Jigs worked around vegetation and dock edges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for precise presentations around docks and laydowns Finesse Jigs for tough conditions and pressured fish	Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas Crawfish becoming active in warming waters	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	52-65	Pre-spawn striped bass are actively staging near spawning areas, following baitfish schools and making transitional movements from winter depths to shallower waters Fish are becoming more aggressive as water temperatures rise, with feeding activity increasing around tide changes and dawn/dusk periods	Main lake points and channel edges adjacent to spawning tributaries Bridge pilings and current breaks in 15-25 foot depths Rocky shorelines and riprap areas where baitfish gather	Umbrella Rigs worked along depth transitions to target actively feeding fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around structure and bait schools Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) slow-rolled near bottom structure	Schools of threadfin and gizzard shad Alewife moving into shallower water Small baitfish congregating around structure	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	55-65	Catfish becoming more active as water temperatures rise into upper 50s, moving to shallower feeding areas during pre-spawn Utilizing tidal currents to ambush prey around structure, particularly during feeding periods	Points with access to deeper water, especially those affected by tidal current Channel edges near shallow flats where pre-spawn staging occurs Structure areas with concentrated baitfish, particularly around alewife schools	Live Bait Rigs with fresh cut bait or live alewife Carolina Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Bottom fishing with heavy sinkers to maintain position in tidal current	Alewife Bottom-dwelling crustaceans	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Smallmouth bass are transitioning from winter depths to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are moving along migration routes following depth contours, pausing on key structure points Feeding activity increases during stable weather patterns, with fish most active during warmer afternoon periods	Rock-grass transition areas in 8-15 foot depth range Main lake points with mixed rock and submerged vegetation Protected coves with hard bottom structure near deeper water access	Blade Baits worked with slow lift-drop retrieves along depth transitions Tubes dragged and hopped through rocky areas Ned Rigs worked slowly around mixed cover areas	Yellow Perch gathering in pre-spawn areas Smaller baitfish schools in transition areas Early season crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	45-58	Trout are becoming more active as water temperatures rise, moving from deep winter holdover areas to shallower feeding zones Fish are following tidal movements, pushing into tributary areas and grass flats during cooler parts of the day Actively feeding on baitfish schools (alewife and shad) in areas where currents concentrate forage	Deep-to-shallow transition areas near submerged vegetation Protected coves with stable temperatures Deeper ledges adjacent to shallow feeding flats	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly along depth transitions Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses near vegetation edges Inline Spinners retrieved steadily in current seams	Alewife schools moving into shallower water Shad concentrating around structure and vegetation Small baitfish utilizing grass beds for cover	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	42-52	Yellow perch are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging, moving from deeper wintering areas towards spawning grounds in vegetated areas Fish are becoming more active with warming water temperatures, forming loose schools and actively feeding to build energy for spawn Movement patterns are influenced by tidal cycles, with perch often feeding more actively during tide changes	Deep water ledges adjacent to spawning flats, especially those with vegetation Current breaks and eddies near structural transitions Submerged vegetation edges in 8-15 foot depths	Blade Baits worked vertically along deep ledges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near vegetation edges Live Bait Rigs with minnows for tentative biters	Small baitfish gathering in pre-spawn areas Aquatic insects becoming more active with warming water Smaller yellow perch providing forage for larger specimens	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	58-68	Pre-spawn panfish are beginning to move from deeper wintering areas toward shallower spawning zones, staging near transitional areas and early-growing vegetation Fish become increasingly active during warming trends, with peak feeding periods during mid-morning and afternoon when water temperatures rise Tidal influences affect feeding patterns, with fish typically more active during moving water periods	Protected coves and pockets with emerging vegetation, especially areas with hydrilla and milfoil Dock areas adjacent to deeper water, particularly on the sun-facing sides Grass edges and transition areas between vegetation and open water	Bobbers with small jigs suspended at varying depths to find active fish Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structure Inline Spinners worked slowly through emerging vegetation	Small insects and larvae emerging with warming water Young-of-year shad and small baitfish Small crustaceans active in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	48-62	Pre-spawn drum are actively feeding in transitional areas, following baitfish schools (particularly Alewife) while moving from winter deep water patterns to spawning grounds Fish are utilizing tidal influences and current patterns to ambush prey, especially around structure transitions	Deep water ledges transitioning to shallow flats, especially near shell beds Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to deeper water Underwater humps with shell bed accumulations	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along depth transitions to imitate Alewife Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around structure and shell beds Carolina Rigs dragged across shell beds and transitional areas	Alewife schools in transitional areas Various shellfish on hard bottom areas Small prey fish in vegetated areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Bass are actively moving into spawning areas, with some fish staging on pre-spawn areas and others beginning to establish nesting sites Feeding activity is increased as fish prepare for spawning, with a focus on larger forage like crawfish in shallow areas	Submerged vegetation edges in spawning flats Shallow humps adjacent to spawning areas Protected coves with stable water conditions	Spinnerbaits worked along vegetation edges Shakey Heads worked slowly on humps and staging areas Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around shallow cover	Crawfish emerging in shallow areas Minnows gathering around spawning flats	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Pre-spawn and spawning striped bass moving into tributary areas and shallower flats, actively feeding before spawning activity Fish transitioning between deep wintering areas and spawning grounds, often staging at key structural elements Aggressive feeding patterns during pre-spawn, followed by more focused spawning behavior	Tributary mouths and major creek channels leading to spawning areas Rocky points and rip-rap areas near deeper water Bridge pilings and current breaks in 15-25 foot depth ranges	Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Umbrella Rigs	Large schools of pre-spawn shad Herring and alewife beginning their spring movements Various baitfish congregating in tributary areas	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	57-68	Catfish beginning to move into spawning locations around hard structure in shallow to moderate depths as temperatures warm into upper 50s Actively feeding during pre-spawn period, taking advantage of tidal movements to ambush prey around structure Moving between deeper channels and shallow flats based on tide cycles and daily temperature changes	Protected dock areas with firm bottom in 5-15 feet of water Channel swings near shallow flats where tidal current concentrates bait Rocky points and irregular shoreline features with deep water access	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live alewife positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') during active feeding periods Carolina Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure	Alewife schools concentrated by tidal movement Early season insects and invertebrates Bottom-dwelling crustaceans and small fish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Smallmouth bass are in pre-spawn to spawning mode, moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow spawning flats near hard bottom or rocky areas Males are actively guarding nests while females stage in slightly deeper adjacent areas, with feeding becoming more aggressive as water temperatures rise	Rocky points and shorelines with pea gravel to baseball-sized rocks in 2-6 feet of water Protected coves with hard bottom adjacent to deeper water Transition areas where rock meets submerged vegetation in spawning bays	Tubes worked slowly along rocky areas and potential spawning sites Ned Rigs fished with subtle movements around spawning flats Drop Shot with finesse presentations for wary spawning fish	Yellow Perch moving into shallow areas Smaller baitfish relating to emerging vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	48-58	Trout becoming more active in shallower waters as spring temperatures rise, seeking optimal spawning conditions Fish actively feeding pre and post-spawn, with increased activity during tidal movements Moving between deep-water refuges and shallow feeding zones based on daily temperature fluctuations	Protected coves with submerged vegetation in 5-15 foot depths Deep-water access points near spawning areas Current-swept points with good tidal flow	Inline Spinners worked slowly through shallow spawning areas Live Bait Rigs near deep-water staging areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for imitating alewife	Alewife gathering in spawning areas Shad schools in transition areas Small baitfish in vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	45-52	Yellow perch are actively spawning in shallow areas with vegetation and structure, typically moving in large schools Fish are influenced by tidal movements, adjusting their position based on current and making periodic feeding runs	Shallow vegetated areas and grass beds in 3-8 feet of water Protected coves and backwaters with reduced tidal influence Secondary points near spawning flats with submerged vegetation	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along vegetation edges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small presentations Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through spawning areas	Small invertebrates and insects near vegetation Juvenile baitfish in shallow areas Zooplankton in the water column	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively spawning in shallow protected areas, primarily around new and full moons due to tidal influence Males guarding nests in colonies, particularly around dock areas and grass edges Feeding opportunistically between spawning activities, especially during incoming tides	Protected coves with firm bottom near vegetation edges Shallow flats adjacent to dock structures Back areas of coves with submerged vegetation	Bobbers with light jigs worked slowly around spawning areas Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding under docks Live Bait Rigs with small offerings near vegetation edges	Small insects and larvae near vegetation Juvenile shad in open water Small crustaceans in grass beds	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	45-58	Actively feeding on alewife schools while transitioning to spawning areas near humps and shell beds Utilizing current breaks and tidal influences around irregular shoreline features for feeding opportunities	Humps with shell beds and hard bottom areas Deep water ledges adjacent to spawning flats Current-swept points with irregular features	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along depth transitions Structure Jigs worked through shell beds Live Bait Rigs near current breaks	Alewife Small crustaceans and mollusks	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-75	Post-spawn largemouth bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding but still relating to shallow cover with water temps 62-75°F Fish are showing tide-influenced feeding patterns, becoming more active during optimal tidal stages around grass and structure	Grass flats with irregular features or depth changes, particularly in areas like Swan Creek Laydowns and docks in shallow water, especially those adjacent to grass beds Submerged vegetation edges where bass can ambush prey	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) with 1/4oz tungsten weights around vegetation and cover Structure Jigs worked around laydowns and dock posts Moving baits like swim jigs when wind is present, switching to finesse techniques in calmer conditions	Perch - primary forage mentioned in recent reports Shad - active in the system during post-spawn period Minnows - providing additional forage opportunities around vegetation	Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-72	Post-spawn stripers are actively feeding near the surface during early morning hours, showing aggressive topwater strikes as evidenced by recent reports Fish are transitioning to deeper water as sunlight increases, following baitfish schools and utilizing current breaks Showing predictable feeding windows with peak activity during low-light periods	Rip rap banks and rocky shorelines, particularly during early morning Bridge pilings and current breaks near deeper water access Points and ledges adjacent to primary channel structures	Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning hours Hard Jerkbaits as sun rises and fish move deeper Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) around structure and current breaks	Alewife - primary forage confirmed in recent reports Shad - consistent with lake profile and common spring forage Minnows - mentioned in lake profile as part of forage base	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	57-72	Actively feeding in post-spawn recovery, utilizing tidal currents and structure for ambush points Moving between deeper channel areas and shoreline structure following bait movements with tidal changes	Points and channel edges affected by tidal current Dock structures with depth variations Coves and irregular shoreline features with structure	Live Bait Rigs positioned along channel edges and points Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around dock structures during tide changes Carolina Rigs worked slowly through structure-rich areas	Alewife concentrations moving with tidal current Various baitfish species around structure Early season insects and invertebrates	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Post-spawn smallmouth bass are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting perch and other baitfish along transitional structure Fish are moving between shallow and mid-depth areas, influenced by tidal movements and following forage	Rocky points adjacent to spawning bays with mixed rock and grass Submerged vegetation edges near deeper water access Complex shoreline areas with multiple cover types (rock/boulder/grass)	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to grass edges Drop Shot with small profile baits around rocky structure Tubes dragged and hopped across mixed rock and grass areas	Yellow Perch congregating around grass edges Small baitfish utilizing weedline edges Crawfish emerging in rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	52-65	Post-spawn trout are actively feeding to recover energy, moving between deeper refuges and shallower feeding zones with tidal influences Fish are following baitfish schools (alewife and shad) while staying within their preferred temperature range Morning and evening feeding patterns are most active, with fish moving shallower during these periods	Deep ledges adjacent to vegetation beds in 15-25 foot depths Submerged points and structure near cold-water refuges Tidal-influenced areas with moving water and baitfish presence	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with varied speeds to match baitfish movement Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along depth transitions Inline Spinners cast near vegetation edges during low light periods	Alewife schools in transitional depths Shad congregating near structure Small baitfish utilizing vegetation beds	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	52-62	Post-spawn yellow perch are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper feeding zones, utilizing ledges as staging areas Fish are actively feeding to recover energy after spawn, responding well to fast-moving presentations in tidal current breaks	Deep water ledges, especially those near spawning flats Current-swept points with submerged vegetation Tidal breaks near structure with varying depths	Blade Baits worked vertically along ledges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near vegetation Inline Spinners cast parallel to current breaks	Small baitfish schools in current breaks Aquatic invertebrates near vegetated areas Juvenile shad moving with tidal currents	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegill and panfish are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily in shallow to mid-depth zones with vegetation Fish are showing increased aggression and territorial behavior around dock structures and grass edges Movement patterns are influenced by tidal changes, with fish pushing into shallow areas during high tide periods	Grass edges and transitions, especially where hydrilla and milfoil meet open water Dock structures with nearby vegetation in 3-8 feet of water Protected coves with submerged vegetation, particularly during incoming tides	Bobbers with small finesse jigs worked slowly around vegetation edges Crappie Dock Shooting with light jigs under and around dock structures Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through transition zones	Small invertebrates and insects in vegetation Juvenile shad beginning to school Small perch in grass edges	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	48-65	Actively feeding in transitional depths following post-spawn recovery, keying on Alewife schools and moving between shell beds and structured areas Using tidal influences and current patterns to ambush prey, particularly around ledges and humps where baitfish concentrate	Shell beds and hard bottom areas near deeper ledges where current creates feeding opportunities Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to deeper water where baitfish schools congregate Underwater humps and elevation changes, especially those with shell bed accumulations	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along ledges and shell beds to imitate Alewife Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around humps and structure during active feeding periods Carolina Rigs dragged across shell beds and hard bottom areas	Alewife schools in transitional depths Various shellfish on hard bottom areas Smaller prey fish relating to submerged vegetation	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	75-87	Bass are actively feeding early and late in the day around grass edges and shallow cover, with movement patterns heavily influenced by tidal changes During midday heat, fish transition to deeper grass edges and shaded cover like docks and laydowns Feeding windows become more concentrated during tide changes, with fish moving in and out with water levels	Submerged grass beds (hydrilla, milfoil, and eel grass) with defined edges Laydowns and flooded brush, especially those adjacent to grass Docks providing shade during bright conditions	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through grass and cover Hard Topwater (Popping) during early morning hours over grass Spinnerbaits along grass edges during moving tide	Bluegill in and around grass beds Perch along grass edges and structure Shad in open water adjacent to grass lines	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	72-84	Striped bass are actively feeding on baitfish schools, with reports showing both deep structure holding patterns and surface feeding activity Fish are utilizing the entire water column, relating to structure like bridge pilings and rock piles while making feeding moves to chase bait Strong tidal influence affects positioning, with fish using current breaks and structure as ambush points	Bridge pilings and associated deep water structure Rock piles and rip rap areas, especially during tide changes Areas with active baitfish schools and surface activity	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) Live Bait Rigs	Shad (primary forage based on reports) Spot (mentioned in live-lining success)	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors
Summer	Catfish	72-87	Actively feeding during dawn and dusk periods, with increased activity around tidal changes and structure Moving between deeper channel areas and shallower feeding zones based on temperature and tide Congregating around structure that provides both shelter and ambush opportunities	Deep channel edges near dock structures where current flow is present Points and irregular shoreline features that intersect with deeper water Structure breaks in 8-15 foot depth range with nearby deeper water access	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact in tidal current Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along bottom structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') during stronger tidal movements	Alewife concentrations in current breaks Bottom-dwelling crustaceans and invertebrates Various baitfish species moving with tidal flows	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	75-87	Smallmouth are transitioning to deeper, cooler water during peak daytime temperatures while maintaining feeding activity around mixed rock and grass structure Fish are responding well to stop-and-go retrieves, suggesting a more deliberate feeding pattern typical of summer heat	Areas with mixed rock and grass structure, particularly where these intersect Dock areas, especially those adjacent to deeper water Deeper rocky points with nearby grass edges	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with stop-and-go retrieve Drop Shot worked slowly around dock posts and rock-grass transitions Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged through mixed cover areas	Yellow Perch Crayfish	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Trout	58-65	Trout are seeking thermal refuge in deeper, cooler water (20'+ depth) due to high summer surface temperatures Feeding activity concentrated during early morning and evening hours when temperatures are more favorable Following daily movements of baitfish (alewife and shad) and responding to tidal influences	Deep ledges and channel edges with access to cooler water Deep water adjacent to submerged vegetation where baitfish gather Areas with strong tidal movement creating current breaks and oxygenated water	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to target specific temperature breaks Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure and bait schools Drop Shot with light tackle in deeper zones	Alewife schools in deeper water Shad concentrations near structure Small baitfish relating to vegetation edges	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	68-82	Yellow perch form loose schools in and around submerged vegetation, actively feeding during early morning and evening hours Fish move between shallow vegetation and deeper ledges based on tidal movements and water temperature Schools relate strongly to current breaks and structure edges during feeding periods	Submerged vegetation edges in 8-15 feet of water Deep water ledges adjacent to vegetation Current breaks near structural points and coves	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small jigs near vegetation Live Bait Rigs with minnows along structure edges Inline Spinners worked through vegetation gaps	Small minnows and juvenile fish Aquatic insects Small crustaceans	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	72-87	Panfish are actively feeding around dock structures during summer, particularly during early morning hours as noted in reports Fish movement and feeding patterns are influenced by tidal changes, with stronger activity during tide changes Utilizing shaded areas under docks and near vegetation edges as ambush points during warm summer conditions	Docks providing shade and structure, particularly along Rockhold Creek's western area Grass edges and transition zones between vegetation and open water Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially during morning feeding periods	Trolling Shallow (0-9') around dock areas and grass edges Bobbers for precise presentation around dock structures Crappie Dock Shooting for targeting fish holding tight to dock structure	Small baitfish and shad Aquatic insects around vegetation Small crustaceans near dock structures	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Drum	72-85	Drum actively feeding along shell beds and hard bottom areas in moderate depths, particularly during early morning and evening hours Following tidal movements and current patterns to ambush prey around structure edges Utilizing submerged vegetation edges as feeding zones when temperatures peak	Shell beds and hard bottom areas near ledges in 15-25 foot depths Humps with mixed shell and vegetation in 10-20 foot depths Current-swept points where tidal flow concentrates baitfish	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with steady bouncing retrieve Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along structure edges Carolina Rigs dragged through shell beds	Small crustaceans and mollusks on shell beds Alewife schools around structure Small bottom-dwelling fish near vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Chesapeake Bay

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	60-75	Bass are actively feeding on shad and other baitfish, following bait schools and setting up on key ambush points around grass and wood cover Fish are transitioning between shallow and deeper water throughout the day, with early morning shallow activity and midday movement to deeper drops	Remaining grass beds with nearby depth transitions Docks and wood cover where bait schools are present Deeper ditches and drops adjacent to shallow feeding areas	Bladed Jigs worked around grass and wood cover Frogs/Toads worked around remaining vegetation in early morning Drop Shot for deeper fish during midday periods	Shad Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Striped bass are actively feeding on baitfish schools (alewife and minnows) in preparation for winter, with aggressive surface feeding during low light periods Fish are transitioning between shallow and deep water throughout the day, following bait and utilizing current breaks	River channels and ledges where bait schools are congregating Main lake humps and points that intersect with deep water Bridge pilings and current breaks in deeper water	Hard Topwater (Walking) during low light periods when fish are surface feeding Spinnerbaits around structure and bait schools in medium depths Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish move deeper during bright conditions	Alewife - primary forage based on recent reports Minnows - secondary forage mentioned in reports	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Catfish	57-72	Catfish are actively feeding on insects and baitfish, taking advantage of tidal movements and structure for ambush points Fish are transitioning to deeper, more stable water temperatures as fall progresses, while still maintaining feeding activity around structure	Docks with deep water access, especially during tidal movements Channel edges near structural elements Points with access to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with slower presentations Carolina Rigs worked along structure edges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') during active feeding periods	Insects during fall hatches Alewife concentrations Small baitfish affected by tidal movements	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	62-72	Actively feeding on perch around weedlines during early fall transition, with increased activity during stable weather patterns Moving between deep and shallow water, using weedline edges as primary feeding zones Responding to tidal movements, which create feeding opportunities along structure edges	Tapering weedlines adjacent to deeper water Mixed rock and grass areas along shoreline points Deep grass edges near tidal flow areas	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weedlines Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for covering water efficiently Drop Shot when fish are holding deeper or less aggressive	Perch Small Baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Fall	Trout	52-68	Trout becoming more active in cooling water temperatures, following baitfish schools of alewife and shad Moving between deep water refuges and shallower feeding zones based on tidal movements and temperature fluctuations More aggressive feeding behavior to build energy reserves before winter	Deep ledges near channel edges where cool water upwelling occurs Submerged vegetation edges in 15-25 foot depths Points and coves with good current flow from tidal movement	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with varied speeds to match baitfish movement Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') during slack tide periods Spoons worked through baitfish schools	Alewife schools congregating in mid-depth zones Shad moving through current seams Small baitfish relating to vegetation edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	52-65	Yellow perch begin schooling more tightly in fall, following baitfish schools and responding to cooling water temperatures Fish are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, with feeding patterns influenced by tidal movements	Deep water ledges adjacent to submerged vegetation Current breaks near points and irregular shoreline features Deeper flats with scattered vegetation where baitfish schools gather	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with steady, subtle movements Blade Baits worked along depth transitions Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved steadily through bait schools	Small baitfish schools congregating in deeper water Juvenile perch in protective vegetation Small crustaceans near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	55-68	Panfish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, focusing on edges of vegetation and structure during prime feeding windows Fish are beginning to school more tightly and gradually moving to deeper water as temperatures cool Movement patterns are heavily influenced by tidal changes, with fish pushing into shallow areas during high tide periods	Deeper dock edges where vegetation meets structure Grass edges and transitions in 4-8 foot depth range Protected coves with remaining vegetation, especially during falling tides	Crappie Dock Shooting Live Bait Rigs Micro Crankbaits	Small shad congregating in schools Young of year perch around vegetation Remaining insects and larvae in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Drum	52-68	Drum are transitioning to deeper water following cooling temperatures, actively feeding on shellfish and baitfish around hard-bottom areas and ledges Fish are congregating near deep structure and following baitfish schools, especially during tidal movements	Deep water ledges adjacent to shell beds, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range Hard bottom areas near channel edges where current creates feeding opportunities Underwater humps with shell beds, especially those near deeper water access	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Structure Jigs	Shellfish and crustaceans on hard bottom areas Alewife and other baitfish schools Small bottom-dwelling fish near structure	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	42-49	Bass are transitioning to slower, more lethargic winter patterns with reduced feeding windows due to water temperatures in the 40s Fish are holding tight to deeper structure, particularly docks, where they can find stable conditions and reduced current influence Feeding activity is concentrated during periods of stable or slack tide, with crawfish being a primary forage	Deep water docks with reduced current exposure Channel swing areas with dock coverage Protected coves with deeper water access	Structure Jigs worked very slowly along dock pilings Blade Baits worked through deeper areas Football Jigs dragged slowly on deeper bottom areas	Crawfish seeking shelter in deeper structure Small baitfish in deeper water columns	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Striped Bass	42-52	Striped bass are holding in deep water (20'+ depth) around ledges and channel edges, actively feeding on schools of baitfish Fish are schooling and exhibiting predictable feeding patterns, staying close to large concentrations of baitfish in deeper water	Deep ledges and channel edges in 20-40 foot depths Deep structure near baitfish schools Bridge pilings and deep current breaks	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Umbrella Rigs	Alewife in deep water Shad schools Large minnows	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Catfish	42-52	Catfish become less active but still feed during warmer parts of the day, concentrating in deeper, stable water areas Fish tend to school more tightly in winter, often in areas where tidal currents are less intense Feeding periods are shorter and more concentrated around tide changes and warmer afternoon periods	Deep channel edges where tidal current is moderate Protected deep holes near structure or points Areas where deeper dock structures meet channel edges	Live Bait Rigs with reduced movement and longer soak times Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure Structure Jigs worked slowly along bottom contours	Alewife concentrations in deeper water Bottom-dwelling crustaceans Winter-killed baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	38-45	Smallmouth bass are schooling in deeper water, typically relating to rock-to-grass transition areas and following perch schools Fish are less active but will feed opportunistically during stable weather periods, especially during warming trends	Deep rock piles adjacent to grass flats in 15-25 foot depth range Channel swing areas with mixed rock and grass structure Deep points where vegetation meets hard bottom structure	Blade Baits worked vertically with slow lifts and drops Drop Shot with subtle movements near bottom structure Tubes dragged slowly across rocky transitions	Yellow Perch concentrating in deep water Small baitfish schools in deeper structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Winter	Trout	42-52	Trout are actively feeding in deeper water columns, particularly around structural elements that concentrate baitfish Fish are following tidal movements, with increased activity during moving water periods Schooling behavior around large concentrations of alewife and shad in 20'+ depths	Deep ledges and drops in 20'+ water that provide current breaks Deep water adjacent to submerged vegetation areas Channel edges and deep points where tidal current creates feeding opportunities	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Deep (20'+) Spoons Live Bait Rigs	Alewife schools in deep water Shad concentrations near structure Small baitfish seeking refuge in vegetation edges	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	38-45	Yellow perch form large, tight schools in deeper water during winter, often relating to current breaks and structure Feeding activity is most intense during dawn and dusk, with schools moving up in the water column during these periods Fish respond to tidal movements, repositioning along ledges and deep structure as water levels change	Deep water ledges adjacent to flats, especially near areas with tidal current breaks Deep structure near submerged vegetation edges Channel bends and deeper holes with reduced current	Blade Baits worked vertically along ledges and structure breaks Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with steady, subtle movements Ice Fishing Spoons worked with a slow lift-and-drop near bottom structure	Small baitfish concentrated in deeper water Juvenile yellow perch in schools Bottom-dwelling invertebrates near structure	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	40-58	Bluegill and panfish suspend around deeper docks and grass edges, often concentrating near structure in 8-15 foot depths Panfish become less active during colder periods but still feed opportunistically during warmer parts of the day Fish movement patterns are influenced by tidal changes, with feeding activity increasing during moderate tidal flow	Deep dock areas with nearby grass edges in 8-15 foot depths Protected coves with submerged vegetation Deeper grass edges near channel transitions	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Drop Shot Finesse Hair Jigs	Small invertebrates around dock pilings and grass Juvenile shad in deeper water Small perch around structure	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Winter	Drum	38-48	Drum concentrate in deeper water (20'+ deep) around ledges and humps, often schooling tightly in wintertime Feeding periods become more limited and concentrated, with fish typically most active during middle of day when water temperatures peak Fish stay close to bottom structure and tend to be less aggressive, requiring slower presentations	Deep water ledges, especially where tidal current creates ambush points Deeper humps with shell beds or hard bottom composition Deep water migration routes near channel bends	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Spoons	Alewife schools in deeper water Bottom-dwelling crustaceans and mollusks Small baitfish holding near structure	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Chesapeake Bay

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks adjacent to spawning flats, particularly those offering deeper water access	Matted grass and submerged vegetation edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points and channel edges adjacent to spawning tributaries	Bridge pilings and current breaks in 15-25 foot depths
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Points with access to deeper water, especially those affected by tidal current	Channel edges near shallow flats where pre-spawn staging occurs
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock-grass transition areas in 8-15 foot depth range	Main lake points with mixed rock and submerged vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Deep-to-shallow transition areas near submerged vegetation	Protected coves with stable temperatures
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Deep water ledges adjacent to spawning flats, especially those with vegetation	Current breaks and eddies near structural transitions
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves and pockets with emerging vegetation, especially areas with hydrilla and milfoil	Dock areas adjacent to deeper water, particularly on the sun-facing sides
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Deep water ledges transitioning to shallow flats, especially near shell beds	Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation edges in spawning flats	Shallow humps adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Tributary mouths and major creek channels leading to spawning areas	Rocky points and rip-rap areas near deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Protected dock areas with firm bottom in 5-15 feet of water	Channel swings near shallow flats where tidal current concentrates bait
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and shorelines with pea gravel to baseball-sized rocks in 2-6 feet of water	Protected coves with hard bottom adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Protected coves with submerged vegetation in 5-15 foot depths	Deep-water access points near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Shallow vegetated areas and grass beds in 3-8 feet of water	Protected coves and backwaters with reduced tidal influence
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves with firm bottom near vegetation edges	Shallow flats adjacent to dock structures
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Humps with shell beds and hard bottom areas	Deep water ledges adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Grass flats with irregular features or depth changes, particularly in areas like Swan Creek	Laydowns and docks in shallow water, especially those adjacent to grass beds
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Rip rap banks and rocky shorelines, particularly during early morning	Bridge pilings and current breaks near deeper water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Points and channel edges affected by tidal current	Dock structures with depth variations
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points adjacent to spawning bays with mixed rock and grass	Submerged vegetation edges near deeper water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Deep ledges adjacent to vegetation beds in 15-25 foot depths	Submerged points and structure near cold-water refuges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Deep water ledges, especially those near spawning flats	Current-swept points with submerged vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Grass edges and transitions, especially where hydrilla and milfoil meet open water	Dock structures with nearby vegetation in 3-8 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Shell beds and hard bottom areas near deeper ledges where current creates feeding opportunities	Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to deeper water where baitfish schools congregate
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Submerged grass beds (hydrilla, milfoil, and eel grass) with defined edges	Laydowns and flooded brush, especially those adjacent to grass
Summer	Striped Bass	Bridge pilings and associated deep water structure	Rock piles and rip rap areas, especially during tide changes
Summer	Catfish	Deep channel edges near dock structures where current flow is present	Points and irregular shoreline features that intersect with deeper water
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Areas with mixed rock and grass structure, particularly where these intersect	Dock areas, especially those adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Trout	Deep ledges and channel edges with access to cooler water	Deep water adjacent to submerged vegetation where baitfish gather
Summer	Yellow Perch	Submerged vegetation edges in 8-15 feet of water	Deep water ledges adjacent to vegetation
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks providing shade and structure, particularly along Rockhold Creek's western area	Grass edges and transition zones between vegetation and open water
Summer	Drum	Shell beds and hard bottom areas near ledges in 15-25 foot depths	Humps with mixed shell and vegetation in 10-20 foot depths
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Remaining grass beds with nearby depth transitions	Docks and wood cover where bait schools are present
Fall	Striped Bass	River channels and ledges where bait schools are congregating	Main lake humps and points that intersect with deep water
Fall	Catfish	Docks with deep water access, especially during tidal movements	Channel edges near structural elements
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Tapering weedlines adjacent to deeper water	Mixed rock and grass areas along shoreline points
Fall	Trout	Deep ledges near channel edges where cool water upwelling occurs	Submerged vegetation edges in 15-25 foot depths
Fall	Yellow Perch	Deep water ledges adjacent to submerged vegetation	Current breaks near points and irregular shoreline features
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deeper dock edges where vegetation meets structure	Grass edges and transitions in 4-8 foot depth range
Fall	Drum	Deep water ledges adjacent to shell beds, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range	Hard bottom areas near channel edges where current creates feeding opportunities
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Deep water docks with reduced current exposure	Channel swing areas with dock coverage
Winter	Striped Bass	Deep ledges and channel edges in 20-40 foot depths	Deep structure near baitfish schools
Winter	Catfish	Deep channel edges where tidal current is moderate	Protected deep holes near structure or points
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep rock piles adjacent to grass flats in 15-25 foot depth range	Channel swing areas with mixed rock and grass structure
Winter	Trout	Deep ledges and drops in 20'+ water that provide current breaks	Deep water adjacent to submerged vegetation areas
Winter	Yellow Perch	Deep water ledges adjacent to flats, especially near areas with tidal current breaks	Deep structure near submerged vegetation edges
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep dock areas with nearby grass edges in 8-15 foot depths	Protected coves with submerged vegetation
Winter	Drum	Deep water ledges, especially where tidal current creates ambush points	Deeper humps with shell beds or hard bottom composition

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Schools of threadfin and gizzard shad	Alewife moving into shallower water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Alewife	Bottom-dwelling crustaceans
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Yellow Perch gathering in pre-spawn areas	Smaller baitfish schools in transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Alewife schools moving into shallower water	Shad concentrating around structure and vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small baitfish gathering in pre-spawn areas	Aquatic insects becoming more active with warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae emerging with warming water	Young-of-year shad and small baitfish
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Alewife schools in transitional areas	Various shellfish on hard bottom areas
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish emerging in shallow areas	Minnows gathering around spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Large schools of pre-spawn shad	Herring and alewife beginning their spring movements
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Alewife schools concentrated by tidal movement	Early season insects and invertebrates
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Yellow Perch moving into shallow areas	Smaller baitfish relating to emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Alewife gathering in spawning areas	Shad schools in transition areas
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small invertebrates and insects near vegetation	Juvenile baitfish in shallow areas
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae near vegetation	Juvenile shad in open water
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Alewife	Small crustaceans and mollusks
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Perch - primary forage mentioned in recent reports	Shad - active in the system during post-spawn period
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Alewife - primary forage confirmed in recent reports	Shad - consistent with lake profile and common spring forage
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Alewife concentrations moving with tidal current	Various baitfish species around structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Yellow Perch congregating around grass edges	Small baitfish utilizing weedline edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Alewife schools in transitional depths	Shad congregating near structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small baitfish schools in current breaks	Aquatic invertebrates near vegetated areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates and insects in vegetation	Juvenile shad beginning to school
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Alewife schools in transitional depths	Various shellfish on hard bottom areas
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill in and around grass beds	Perch along grass edges and structure
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad (primary forage based on reports)	Spot (mentioned in live-lining success)
Summer	Catfish	Alewife concentrations in current breaks	Bottom-dwelling crustaceans and invertebrates
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Yellow Perch	Crayfish
Summer	Trout	Alewife schools in deeper water	Shad concentrations near structure
Summer	Yellow Perch	Small minnows and juvenile fish	Aquatic insects
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small baitfish and shad	Aquatic insects around vegetation
Summer	Drum	Small crustaceans and mollusks on shell beds	Alewife schools around structure
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad	Bluegill
Fall	Striped Bass	Alewife - primary forage based on recent reports	Minnows - secondary forage mentioned in reports
Fall	Catfish	Insects during fall hatches	Alewife concentrations
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Perch	Small Baitfish
Fall	Trout	Alewife schools congregating in mid-depth zones	Shad moving through current seams
Fall	Yellow Perch	Small baitfish schools congregating in deeper water	Juvenile perch in protective vegetation
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small shad congregating in schools	Young of year perch around vegetation
Fall	Drum	Shellfish and crustaceans on hard bottom areas	Alewife and other baitfish schools
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish seeking shelter in deeper structure	Small baitfish in deeper water columns
Winter	Striped Bass	Alewife in deep water	Shad schools
Winter	Catfish	Alewife concentrations in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling crustaceans
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Yellow Perch concentrating in deep water	Small baitfish schools in deeper structure
Winter	Trout	Alewife schools in deep water	Shad concentrations near structure
Winter	Yellow Perch	Small baitfish concentrated in deeper water	Juvenile yellow perch in schools
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates around dock pilings and grass	Juvenile shad in deeper water
Winter	Drum	Alewife schools in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling crustaceans and mollusks

Bait Colors by Season for Chesapeake Bay

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors
Summer	Catfish	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Drum	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Catfish	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Fall	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Drum	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Striped Bass	Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Catfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Winter	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Winter	Drum	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals