When the sun is bright a bass anglers
should stick with flashy lures such as silver flake or gold flake
lures that will reflect the sunlight as it penetrates the water. This
is true no matter what the water clarity is. However, the more
stained or muddy the water the less light penetration and therefore
the shallower these bright lures are effective. One interesting thing
is that those same reflective baits become less visible when there is
low light conditions as the reflective properties in the bait now
reflects its surroundings rather than the light. This can actually
camouflage the lure making it even harder to see for the bass.
CATCH BASS IN CLEAR WATER
CATCH BASS IN STAINED WATER
CATCH BASS IN MUDDY WATER
CATCH BASS ON CLOUDY DAYS
Cloudy days and clear water demands
more realistic looking patterns as well as white or pearl colors
because the bass can see the bait so clearly. As the water clarity
diminishes lure color should move up the brightness chart. Green
chartreuse and bright yellows for stained water and bright reds for
muddy water. Once the water gets really muddy vibration can be as
important as color. Try wake baits and big spinner baits in chartreuse
and or reds. Below are some color combinations that work.
Selecting the right color lure for catching bass can be a daunting task. To understand the effects of light penetration through water and the effects of all that on different colors at different depths at different times of day would take a small book. These simple tips can help you narrow it down enough to keep the fun in bass fishing. If you want an even easier way to select you lure color for bass fishing get you a Color-C-Lector shown below. One note to using the color selector: be mindful of the depth in which the fish are located. I have never used the Color-C-Lector but know a few people who do. They tell me, and it makes sense, that the color recommended will be different depending upon the depth you check as the light penetration varies with depth and clarity. They do say it works so I do plan to get my own.
An old favorite with a new twist--a high-tech
digital readout! The innovative technology that changed the way
millions of anglers fished is back with a slimmer, more user-friendly
interface and a digital display. Instantly analyzes several data
sources to reveal the colors that fish will see best under your
particular conditions. Helps you select the right lure with confidence
and ease. Works great when bass fishing and even better during panfish,
crappie and walleye outings. Uses 4 AA batteries (not included).
