Summer Reservoir Fishing Scenarios / Learn to Fish Reservoirs

There are few things as satisfying as the crackle of a piping-hot grill.

Sharp, crispy-hot pops of delicious fat sliding off of that ribeye that we should probably share with someone else… but… we won’t.

We’ll devour it.

Much like the bass devoured our topwater frog this morning. Ah… that is one thing more satisfying than a smokey grill: topwater largemouth bass explosions. Maybe we’ll be able to get a few more tomorrow…

AJ with a Topwater Largemouth Bass — Try a Sebile Pivot Frog for Explosive Topwater Srikes

Summer in Reservoirs

The summer period is one of stability. Temperature changes are a non-issue for the most part, and several bass have moved out now that they are done spawning. Cool water inflows can attract and concentrate baitfish, and the bass will follow.

Heavy rainfall during the summer months can cause a sharp rise in the water level. This can also be followed by a sharp decline in the water level as the reservoir is brought back to the recommended pool.

Fishing Muddy, Rising Water in Summer

Muddy water prompts fish to relate tighter to their surroundings. We discussed this when we looked at a few springtime reservoir fishing scenarios as well – and the same advice holds true here…

Work your presentations tight to cover.

The presentations we’ll start with have expanded a bit more, and a big reason for that is warmer water temperatures and additional stability. During prespawn we’d reach for spinnerbaits and jigs – but now it’s a great idea to add buzzbaits, frogs, bladed jigs, additional pitching jigs and soft plastics to the mix!

Trimmed Up Topwater Frog Bass Baits — The Sebile Pivot Frog and the Strike King Sexy Frog are both rock-solid options.

Fishing Muddy, Falling Water in Summer

When the water returns to the normal elevation, it has much less of an effect on the bass. Many pros and hot-stick locals agree that this does not seem to be a major game-changer.

Continue to work tight to cover, but look to a few new locations.

Check shallower, offshore structure. Then drop back to deeper cover and structure, using louder, brighter, high-contrast baits. Don’t be afraid to add in scent if you haven’t already – you want to do everything you can do activate the other senses utilized by bass – not just vision.