Bassmaster Elite Pro Brandon Cobb breaks down his tactics for catching spotted bass throughout the year. From cold winter waters to the warm summer months, Cobb shares detailed methods for targeting this often-overlooked species. Whether fishing clear lakes or dealing with windy conditions, his approach adapts to each season.
FEATURED PRODUCT (retail links)
- JERKBAIT – Yo-Zuri 3DB Jerkbait 110, color – White Pearl: Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- SOFT JERKBAIT – Zoom Super Fluke Jr.: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- DROP SHOT PLASTIC – Zoom Tiny Fluke: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- JIGGING SPOON (1-ounce) – Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- SHAKYHEAD PLASTIC – Zoom Trick Worm: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- CRANKBAIT No. 1 – Yo-Zuri Duel Hardcore Shad SR 60: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- CRANKBAIT No. 2 – Yo-Zuri 3DR-X Midrunner: Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- CASTING ROD – ARK Cobb Series Casting Rod: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- CASTING REEL – ARK Gravity Series 5 Casting Reel: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- SPINNING ROD – ARK Cobb Series Spinning Rods: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- SPINNING REEL – ARK Gravity Spinning Reels: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- TACKLE BOX – Plano EDGE Utility Box 3700: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
WINTER FISHING FOR SPOTTED BASS
Winter is one of the best seasons for spotted bass. Cobb explains that they form large schools around baitfish, making them easier to target. He utilizes forward-facing sonar and jerkbaits like the Yo-Zuri 3DB 110 to catch suspended bass. He also employs vertical baits, such as the drop shot rig, super flukes, and jigging spoons, to reach fish in deeper waters—sometimes up to 70 feet.
SPRING AND SUMMER SPOTTED BASS TACTICS
In spring, Cobb focuses on jerkbaits and crankbaits for spotted bass in shallower waters, especially when conditions turn cloudy or rainy. As summer progresses, spotted bass become more nomadic, following bait schools in open water. During this period, topwater lures like walking baits become key tools for catching surface-feeding fish.
FALL ADJUSTMENTS FOR SPOTTED BASS
In fall, spotted bass move deeper as water temperatures drop, and the fall turnover begins. Cobb targets them using vertical presentations like drop shots and jigging spoons in 30- to 50 feet of water. He emphasizes adapting to seasonal patterns, adjusting lure depth, and locating bait schools in main lake areas and creek channels.
ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR YEAR-ROUND SUCCESS
Cobb highlights the importance of versatile gear, including front-facing sonar, drop shot rigs, and various soft plastics. He stresses that adapting techniques based on fish behavior is key. By applying these seasonal strategies, anglers can target spotted bass throughout the year, maximizing their chances of success.
