November Bass Fishing Tips: How to Catch More Bass as Temperatures Drop

As autumn winds down and November rolls in, many anglers are putting away their fishing gear until spring. But for those in the know, bass fishing can be incredibly productive this time of year. Cooler water temps and shorter daylight hours influence bass behavior, making November a unique month to get out there and hook some solid catches. Here are some essential tips to elevate your November bass fishing experience!

1. Find Warmer Water

Bass become more sluggish as water temperatures drop. In November, they’re often drawn to areas with even slight temperature variations. Look for spots like:

  • Shallow Flats: These tend to warm up faster on sunny days, drawing bass in to warm up and hunt.
  • Creek Mouths and Inflows: These areas can carry slightly warmer water from runoff, making them attractive to bass.
  • South-Facing Banks: These can receive more sunlight and have marginally warmer water, which bass find inviting.

2. Slow Down Your Presentation

In colder temperatures, bass metabolism slows down, making them less likely to chase fast-moving lures. Try these techniques for a slower, more enticing presentation:

  • Use Jigs and Soft Plastics: These lures can be worked slowly along the bottom, which appeals to less aggressive bass.
  • Try a Suspended Jerkbait: A slow, twitch-and-pause retrieve mimics dying baitfish, which can draw strikes from lethargic bass.
  • Switch to Heavier Line: Heavier line sinks slower, allowing your bait to hover a bit longer in front of the fish.

3. Focus on Structure and Cover

In colder water, bass often hug tightly to structure for protection and as ambush points. Key spots to focus on:

  • Rock Piles and Ledges: Rocks retain heat, creating a warmer micro-environment. Bass may hold in these areas to stay warm.
  • Vegetation: If your lake has any remaining weeds or grass, these can provide oxygen and cover, keeping bass nearby.
  • Drop-offs and Deepwater Structure: Bass will retreat to deeper water in November, especially when cold fronts hit.

4. Adjust Your Bait Color to Match the Season

Bass feed heavily on baitfish and crawfish in fall, so mimicking these natural prey items will increase your chances of a bite. Here’s what works well:

  • Shad Patterns: White, silver, or chrome work well to imitate shad, a common bass food source in the colder months.
  • Crawfish Imitations: Browns, greens, and oranges work best as bass turn to crawfish along rocks and hard bottom areas.
  • Subtle Colors in Clear Water: If the water is exceptionally clear, opt for more translucent or natural colors to avoid spooking fish.

5. Fish the Afternoon Warm-Up

In the early morning, water is usually at its coolest. As the sun rises, water temperatures increase slightly, which can stimulate bass activity. Try planning your fishing trips around the afternoon when the water has had time to warm up.

6. Gear Tips for November Bass Fishing

  • Cold Weather Gear: A good pair of thermal gloves, waterproof boots, and layered clothing will make your trip more enjoyable and allow you to stay on the water longer. Check out our fleece hoodie that's perfect for those chilly mornings.
  • Downsize Your Tackle: Cold water can make bass wary. Using lighter line and smaller baits might entice more strikes.
  • Upgrade Your Electronics: If possible, use a fish finder to locate deeper bass and structure you might not see otherwise.

7. Bank Fishing Tips for November

For bank anglers, November can still offer productive bass fishing if you target the right areas. Focus on spots with steep banks, rocky shorelines, or points where you can access deeper water close to shore—bass are likely to hold in these areas as temperatures drop. Use long-range lures like lipless crankbaits or jerkbaits to cover water effectively, and try slow, deliberate retrieves, especially with jigs or soft plastics, to appeal to less active bass. Since afternoons bring slightly warmer water to the shallows, consider fishing later in the day for the best chances of success.

8. Stay Patient and Adapt

November bass fishing isn’t about covering lots of water quickly. Instead, it’s about patience and precision. Slow down your retrieves, adjust to the fish's changing moods, and focus on presenting your bait in a way that convinces even the most hesitant bass to strike.

November can be a rewarding month for bass fishing enthusiasts who know how to adapt to the conditions. Take the time to adjust your strategy, layer up for the cold, and target those warmer water areas where bass are more likely to be hanging out. With the right approach, you can enjoy a productive day on the water and catch some of the year’s best bass before winter truly sets in.

Lakeside Angling is here to help you "elevate your angling experience, lakeside." Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, our tips and gear ensure that you’re always ready to make the most of every fishing season.

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