Beau Browning shows us how to target deep prespawn bass using a minnow and forward-facing sonar on highland reservoirs. The key for Browning is locating the highest bass density in the standing timber of deep-water ditches, then dialing his minnow presentation until the fish commit.
FEATURED PRODUCT
- BAIT – Z-Man Graph ShadZ (1/4-ounce), color – Bad Shad: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- ROD – Jackall Revoltage RV II-S67ML/2: Buy at JDM Heaven
- REEL – Daiwa EXIST Spinning Reel, 2500: Check out at Daiwa
- LINE (braided mainline) – Brand not specified: Buy Braid at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- LINE (fluorocarbon leader) – Gamma Edge Fluorocarbon Line, 12-pound: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
FINDING BASS IN STANDING TIMBER AND DITCHES
Browning explains that fishing around standing timber requires a slow, methodical approach. By following major creek arms and tracking the deepest parts of the ditch, Browning locates fish at various depths, from 30 to 60 feet. Timber creates the perfect ambush point for bass, and when multiple fish gather in one area, competition increases, making them more aggressive.
SHAKING A MINNOW TO TRIGGER BITES
Once you locate fish, the key is to match their behavior. Browning works his minnow with a fast, erratic retrieve if bass are actively chasing bait. When fish are hesitant, he slows it down, letting the bait glide naturally through the water column. The line-through design of the Graph ShadZ keeps the bait horizontal, maintaining a lifelike presentation.
MATCHING YOUR BAIT TO THE FORAGE
For Browning, matching lure size and profile is the most crucial presentation consideration. Threadfin shad is a predominant forage on many impoundments, so the ultra-realistic Z-Man Graph ShadZ is the perfect bait for this application. In addition to a realistic profile and colors, the Graph ShadZ is forward-facing sonar optimized with a fast fall rate coupled with a head shape and body air pocket to maximize signal return. Browning typically uses the lightest head he can get away with, but deep water requires a 1/4-ounce on this day to reach the fish quickly.
BROWNING’S PREFERRED MINNOW ROD SETUP
Browning prefers a 6’7″ medium-light spinning rod, which allows for precise casting and better control when working the bait on sonar. He pairs it with a 2500-size spinning reel, spooled with a small diameter 20-pound braid and a 12-pound fluorocarbon leader. This setup provides the sensitivity and strength needed to extract bass from the deep timber-laden water while maintaining stealth.
WHEN TO USE THIS TECHNIQUE
This technique excels in clear water anytime bass are suspended, regardless of depth and cover. Adjust your jig weight and line based on fish depth, water clarity, and cover variables. Again, focus on matching your bait to forage profile and size. Moping a Scented Jerk ShadZ might be the ideal match if you’re on a smelt or minnow fishery. Let the body of water and fish guide you to the best presentation.
BOAT SETUP
• FISH FINDER – Garmin GPSMAP Touch-Screen Fish Finder/Chartplotter Combo, 12-inch: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
• FORWARD-FACING SONAR (FFS) – Garmin LVS34 LiveScope Plus Live Scanning Sonar Transducer: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
• TROLLING MOTOR – Garmin Force Trolling Motor: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
