Bass Fishing in the Rain: Tips & Techniques for Success

Rain impacts the environment in several ways that benefit bass fishing:

• Increased Oxygen Levels: Rain stirs up the water and increases dissolved oxygen, making bass more active.
• Reduced Light Penetration: Overcast skies and raindrops limit light, making bass more likely to roam away from cover.
• Cooling Effect: In hot weather, rain cools the water, making bass more comfortable and active.
• Runoff Creates Feeding Zones: Rainwater washes insects and baitfish into the water, attracting bass to creeks, drains, and shorelines.
• Less Fishing Pressure: Many anglers avoid the rain, meaning less competition on the water.

Rain can cause bass to move to different areas than they typically would in dry conditions. Here are the best places to find them:

1. Shallow Flats and Shorelines

Rain can push bass into shallow areas where runoff brings food. Look for bass near:

• Creek mouths and drainage pipes.
• Weed lines and submerged vegetation.
• Muddy banks where insects and baitfish are washed in.

2. Points and Drop-Offs

Bass often move between deep and shallow water during rain. Fishing near drop-offs and points allows you to target bass moving up to feed.

3. Current Breaks and Inflow Areas

Rain creates moving water, which can push baitfish toward inflow areas. Bass will position themselves near current breaks to ambush prey.

4. Docks and Overhanging Trees

When the rain is light, bass may still use docks and tree cover for shade and ambush points.

Since bass are more active in the rain, you should use lures that take advantage of their increased aggression.

1. Topwater Lures

Rain breaks up the water’s surface, making bass more confident in hitting topwater baits.

• Buzzbaits: Excellent for covering water quickly and triggering reaction strikes.
• Whopper Ploppers: Creates a loud, enticing disturbance in the rain.
• Frogs: Great for fishing around vegetation and weed mats.

2. Spinnerbaits and Chatterbaits

These lures excel in rain because their vibration and flash help bass locate them in choppy water.

• Spinnerbaits: Best for fishing near points and shallow cover.
• Chatterbaits: Great for working along weed edges and flats.

3. Crankbaits

Crankbaits are ideal for covering water and targeting bass actively chasing bait.

• Squarebill Crankbaits: Work well in shallow water and near rocky areas.
• Medium-Diving Crankbaits: Effective for targeting bass moving off drop-offs.

4. Soft Plastics

When the rain slows down, switching to soft plastics can help catch bass that are still active but less aggressive.

• Texas-Rigged Worms: Great for pitching into cover.
• Swimbaits: Mimic baitfish being washed into the lake.

In rainy conditions, bass behavior changes, and so should your fishing approach.

1. Cover More Water

Bass are actively feeding during rain, so using fast-moving lures like spinnerbaits and crankbaits can help you locate them quickly.

2. Increase Your Retrieve Speed

Since bass are more aggressive, speeding up your retrieve can trigger reaction strikes.

3. Focus on Moving Water

Pay attention to areas where rainwater is entering the lake or river, as bass will gather to feed on baitfish being washed in.

4. Use Noisy or Vibrating Lures

With rain splashing on the surface, bass rely more on their lateral line to detect vibrations, making chatterbaits, crankbaits, and topwater baits highly effective.

Fishing in the rain can be productive, but safety should always be a priority.

• Wear Proper Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket, pants, and boots will keep you dry and comfortable.
• Watch for Lightning: If you see lightning or hear thunder, get off the water immediately.
• Use Non-Slip Footwear: Boat decks and docks can become slippery in the rain.
• Protect Your Electronics: Keep fish finders, phones, and other devices in waterproof cases.