The spring fly fishing season in Ohio is something every angler anticipates like that first spring cast over a rising brookie. Yet, as the cold days fade away and the first buds of spring appear, it’s essential to not just dream about the ideal fishing spot but to get prepared for what lies ahead. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do right now to ensure your fly fishing gear, tackle, and casting techniques are primed and ready for fly fishing in Ohio.

Start With Your Gear

It’s time to break the hibernation of your fly fishing equipment. Unearth your rod(s) and reel(s) (I know you have several…) from their winter resting places and conduct a comprehensive review. Examine the rod segments, ensuring they interlock smoothly without any gaps. Give your reel a whirl – does it spin without a hitch? Unspool the line and set it aside, disassemble the reel halves and clean it regardless with mild soap and water and allow it to dry before oiling it with a small bit of reel oil from your local fly shop like Mad River Outfitters in Columbus, or Orvis in Worthington. (TIP: don’t use the aerosol kind, they can degrade line and plastic parts.)

This also provides an opportune moment to evaluate the condition of your fishing line AND clean and lubricate it. A neglected line could result in lost fish or, worse, damaged gear. Ensure it’s free from any frays, splits, or kinks, which could affect your casting distance, precision, and presentation. Clean it with a mild soap and warm water and allow it to dry. Lastly, condition and lubricate it with Flip Pallot’s Special Delivery Fly Line Dressing, available from Mad River Outfitters.

Pay attention to the essential tools too like your nippers, pliers or forceps, fly floatant, and line straightener. If your gear appears fatigued, consider the prospect of acquiring top-tier replacements now. Let’s put it this way, allocating resources to exceptional gear isn’t an unnecessary expenditure; it’s a calculated move that lays the groundwork for your ultimate triumph in fly fishing. A small expense can make a huge difference.

While gearing up might seem like a mundane task, remember, it is the tiny details that often distinguish a successful angler from a disappointed one. Like a well-tuned instrument, your gear needs to perform flawlessly when it’s time for the concert – or in this case, when you’re fly fishing in Ohio’s scenic waters like you’ll find at a private fishing club like our scenic and accessible Briarwood Sporting Club in Bellefontaine, Ohio or the beautiful Mad River, Clear Fork River, or Chagrin River. We’ll address the all-important flies next.

Stock Up on Flies, Tippet, and Leaders

Just as a chef needs the right ingredients, a fly angler needs an assortment of flies, tippet, and leaders at their disposal. Think of this as curating your culinary collection, each fly promising a delectable treat to your aquatic targets. Delve into your fly assortment. How diverse is your collection? Does it cater to the varied dietary preferences of Ohio’s trout for spring, summer, and fall seasons? What worked well last season that you need to restock? But remember, don’t get overwhelmed – in Ohio trout fishing you can get by with no more than 2 dozen of the most widely used flies. Ensuring you have an array of flies can give you an edge when it comes to attracting your finned foes. And remember, for Ohio trout don’t give in to a whim to try something flashy unless you know first-hand, or from an expert source, it is worth it!

Also, take a close look at your tippet and leader supplies. Are they worn out, and old, or do they still hold their integrity? Remember, tippets and leaders are the silent heroes of your fly fishing setup, providing the critical connection between your line and the fly. Each type serves a specific function and having a variety on hand can make a difference depending on the conditions of your chosen fishing spot. Even tippet on an unused spool from years ago can wear out simply from age and sun exposure.

For instance, a heavier leader is ideal when you’re casting larger, air-resistant flies, while a lighter leader is the way to go when you need a delicate presentation with smaller flies. As for tippets, remember that different sizes are suited for different species of fish, so ensure you have an array to cater to Ohio’s freshwater inhabitants. Still confused, visit the great folks at Orvis-Worthington and Mad River Outfitters who are experts with flies and line and they know what works best in Ohio.

On a practical note, be cognizant of the cost implications of stocking up on these items. Yes, it’s an investment, but an investment that’s pivotal to your fly-fishing success. After all, what’s the cost of a few flies compared to the thrill of hooking a prize catch? Consider it an investment in your future fishing adventures.

Stocking up on these essentials is akin to laying a strong foundation for a building. With a robust inventory of flies, tippet, and leaders, you’re setting yourself up for a successful spring fly fishing season in Ohio’s diverse waterways. You’re not just preparing to fish; you’re preparing to excel at it.

Tackle Organization Tips

Before embarking on your Ohio fly fishing journey, a well-organized fishing vest or sling pack can serve as your dependable ally. A systematic approach to storing your gear can save you precious time when you’re immersed in the pursuit of a coveted trout. It’s not just about storing your gear; it’s about having a precise idea of where everything is located when you’ve spotted a lunker and you need to quickly change flies or add floatant.

Begin by categorizing your flies. Arrange them into dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. This way, you can easily identify and pick the right bait based on the fish you are targeting. Separate fly boxes for each are ideal. Consider the Orvis clear, two-sided waterproof boxes. They are as easy to use as they are durable.

Next up, your tippets and leaders deserve a section of their own. Arrange them by size or strength. When in the throes of battle with a tenacious trout, you won’t be fumbling around for the right leader or tippet, thus keeping your cool and maintaining control over the situation. Consider a tippet reel organizer to attach to your vest or pack. Some packs and vests, like the Orvis Guide Sling Pack, have the tippet organizer built-in! Do you often find yourself forgetting where you stored your fishing line or your extra reel spool? A clear and logical storage system in your vest or pack can turn these instances into a thing of the past. Dedicating specific compartments for these items not only ensures their safekeeping but also facilitates their quick retrieval during critical moments.

Let’s not overlook the need for a section for small accessories like fishing line nippers, forceps/pliers, floatants, or spare reel parts. If you don’t own them now, I highly recommend a zinger for your nipper and a second for your forceps – (a zinger is the small retractable device and cord that attaches to your tools and the other end to your pack or vest. Having these tools handy can make a world of difference when you’re in the middle of the water or the fishing action is peaking! The zinger will also prevent that terrible moment of dropping a tool in the stream.

To sum it up, it’s not just about filling your fishing vest; it’s about transforming it into a dynamic control panel, ready to assist you in your Ohio fly fishing exploits. Remember, the organized angler isn’t merely the one who keeps his/her tackle tidy. It’s the angler who, amidst the rush of journey to the stream and the thrill of the chase, knows exactly where every piece of gear is and how to deploy it for efficiency and getting that next cast off into the water.

Getting Geared Up with Clothing

Spring fly fishing in Ohio can be an incredible experience, but it also requires suitable attire to face unpredictable and changing weather conditions. The transition period from the chill of winter to the warmth of spring can bring fluctuating temperatures, wind, and rain. Thus, it’s critical to ensure that your clothing is up to the task to keep you comfortable, warm, and dry as you embark on your angling adventure.

Start by investing in a quality fishing jacket. Opt for a waterproof, windproof, and breathable jacket that can withstand Ohio’s spring showers and gusty breezes without making you feel like you’re inside a sauna. Remember, while angling is a battle of wits against the fish, it’s also a battle against the elements.

Next up, consider your layering strategy. Layering allows you to regulate your body temperature efficiently. A base layer that wicks away moisture, coupled with a warm mid-layer, will keep you snug without limiting your movement.

Let’s not forget the importance of fishing pants or waders. Although, fortunately at Ohio’s premier fishing destination, Briarwood Sporting Club, waders aren’t needed. Both water and wind-resistant fishing pants and waders are essential in protecting your lower body from water, wind, and chill.

Protective headgear is another crucial element. A hat, balaclava, or cap can shield your face from sun glare, rain, and even errant hooks during those enthusiastic backcasts. Consider a hat with a wide bring for dual rain and sun protection! Sunglasses, besides looking cool, protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and the glint of the sun off the water. Models with polarized lenses are strongly recommended to reduce glare further and help you see into the water.

Finally, give your feet the attention they deserve. A sturdy pair of waterproof boots provides the necessary grip when you’re navigating slippery streamside turf and rocks. And of course, the right socks can make the difference between a delightful day of angling or a miserable one with cold, damp feet. Wool and poly blends are best. Bear in mind, the idea is to balance protection, comfort, and mobility. Each article of clothing is a gear in itself, contributing to your overall fishing experience. Also, remember that wearing natural or earth-tone colors can make you less noticeable to the fish, giving you an added advantage in the Ohio waters.

While preparing for your fishing trip, consider that clothing isn’t just about fashion or comfort – it’s an essential part of your gear. Dressing appropriately increases your chances of staying out longer, remaining focused, and ultimately, catching more fish. With the right clothing, you can confidently face the Ohio spring, knowing you’re as prepared as you can be, from head to toe.

Casting Practice Makes Perfect (or nearly…)

Even during the colder Ohio months, take the opportunity to polish your casting skills. Even though you’re not knee-deep in an Ohio stream, the power of practice cannot be underestimated. Your backyard, a nearby park, or even your living room can serve as the perfect stage for honing your technique.

Casting in fly fishing is akin to playing an instrument. It’s an art that requires precision, rhythm, and timing. Just as a pianist practices scales to perfect his performance, a fly angler practices casting to ensure flawless execution when the time comes.

Keep in mind, when it comes to casting, it’s not always about how far you can cast your line. The real game-changer is accuracy. Being able to place your fly precisely where you want it, and in a manner that mimics natural insect movement, is often what distinguishes an adept angler from the rest.

Practice different casting techniques. Work on your roll cast, for times when there’s limited space behind you. Try the double haul for those moments when you need to cover more distance. Experiment with the reach cast, a handy trick when dealing with complex currents.

While practicing, focus on getting your line to land straight. A straight line not only enhances your accuracy but also helps in achieving a drag-free drift, which can significantly improve your chances of a strike.

Consider investing time in understanding the mechanics of casting. Learn about the vital role your wrist and arm play, the importance of timing in achieving the optimal loop, and the correlation between line speed and distance.

Embrace your mistakes during practice. Is your cast often landing in a heap? Is your line not extending fully before you make the forward cast? Each error provides valuable insight into areas of improvement. Use this time to troubleshoot and iron out these kinks.

Remember, in fly fishing, every cast is a conversation with the water and its inhabitants. With practice, you can ensure that your message – the fly – is delivered with grace, precision, and effectiveness. Consider fly and casting lessons with a pro guide like we offer at Briarwood.

So, while the rivers and streams of Ohio await the onset of spring, let your practice sessions be the prelude to the symphony of successful angling. As the adage goes, the more you sweat in practice, the less you bleed in battle. The fish might not be biting yet, but your preparation today can pave the way for your success this spring!

Explore New Fishing Locations

While the anticipation of spring fly fishing in Ohio brews, now is the ideal time to start planning your fishing adventures in unexplored territories. Devote some time to researching potential fishing locations online. You can learn a lot from fellow anglers and other local angling communities – and Ohio fly shops are the best place to find this guidance. Their advice, experiences, and suggestions can guide you to new, abundant fishing spots that you may have overlooked.

Beyond public waters, consider elevating your angling experience by becoming a part of a private fishing oasis. Places such as Briarwood Sporting Club offer a distinctive, high-quality fishing experience where tranquility and bounty go hand in hand. These clubs can provide a haven away from crowded public fishing areas, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the thrill of the chase. And fishing at Briarwood provides a superior and accessible fishing environment less than an hour from the greater Columbus and Dayton areas, and about 2 hours from Cincinnati.

Embarking on an expedition to unfamiliar waters not only invigorates your angling journey but also broadens your skill set. Each new location presents its unique challenges and learning opportunities, helping you evolve as an angler. Whether it’s adapting to different water conditions, learning to read new rivers, or figuring out the feeding patterns of unknown fish species, every new fishing spot enriches your overall fly angling prowess.

As the winter fades into spring, start envisioning your fishing exploits in Ohio’s uncharted waters. Map out your itinerary, secure your permissions or memberships, and prepare yourself for an exciting angling season ahead. Exploring new waters isn’t just about catching more fish; it’s about embracing the unknown, testing your abilities, and most importantly, enhancing your love for the art of fly fishing. So, buckle up and let your angling curiosity guide you toward new horizons this spring!

For over 4 decades Briarwood Sporting Club, a private members-only fishing club located in Bellefontaine, Ohio, has been a “slice of wilderness” in northwest central Ohio, delivering a relaxed atmosphere of soothing freshwater amid breathtaking rolling hills, meadows, and timber. Four streams are home to some very impressive “wall ready” trout – including rainbows, brown, brook, golden, and blue. While Briarwood offers superb fly fishing for trout, fourteen lakes and ponds offer lunker Largemouth, slab panfish, and other finned favorites like Tiger Muskie and Hybrid Striped Bass.

As a majestic and vast landscape, Briarwood is also one of America’s finest whitetail hunting destinations offering mature deer on expertly managed lands. Gorgeous hardwoods, pines, and meadows present a habitat that has plentiful food plots and wildlife openings.

First-class lodging, 5-star service, a welcoming Loafing Lodge, and incredible and diverse wildlife viewing complete the perfect outdoor escape to create an unforgettable experience. Visit www.briarwoodclub.com for more information.

Drew McCartt, Briarwood’s Director of Sporting Services has been an avid freshwater fisherman for over 50 years, including 30 years of fly fishing and guiding. He has an MS in Freshwater Fisheries Research from Ohio State University and a BS in Fisheries & Wildlife Management from the University of Tennessee. He can be reached at drew@briarwoodclub.com

by Drew McCartt with experienced bass anglers Max Reiner and Steve Moore

Fly Fishing for Largemouth Bass | An Interview with Two Seasoned Fly Anglers

Ahh, the celebrated largemouth bass. This highly sought, aggressive sportfish is surely the most widely recognized fish for anglers of all abilities, especially for the eastern half of the U.S. The species is truly a legendary fishing target – in fact, ask the more seasoned circles of bass fanatics who for years have referred to the big ones as hawgs, pigs, toads, lunkers, studs, bruisers, and of course, wallhangers! Few other species have that killer instinct reputation with bragging rights status for the angler.

At Briarwood Sporting Club, a 440 acre private fishing club and hunting preserve located in Logan County, Ohio, you can find these impressive fish in all of our ponds and lakes, from North Lake to Perch Pond. With the water temperatures rising above 55 degrees right now, largemouth are ready to eat (actually, devour) as we roll into late April! 

Fly Fishing for Largemouth Bass?

For me and many other anglers, there is no more exciting way to land a hawg than with a fly rod. Sure, most people can catch a bass with spinning or casting gear, and certainly live bait. But with a little expert guidance, you can gain the bragging rights of getting that lunker while fly fishing for largemouth bass here at your club – and the excitement only fly gear provides!

For that expert guidance, I turned to two proficient anglers (who also happen to be Briarwood members) who have a wealth of largemouth bass fly fishing experience. They each have more than 35 years of angling for bass and many other species under their belt. Max Reiner and Steve Moore were happy to share their experience, wisdom, and gear tips. 

Max Reiner started fishing at the age of 3 and caught his first fish, a hybrid bluegill, in a small pond. He was hooked immediately. He has fished around the country and beyond for many, many species with equipment he designs and builds. He has also served as a professional fishing guide. His favorite species to pursue by fly are carp and musky.

Steve Moore started fishing when he was 5 and his first fish was a bluegill as well. Since then, he has seized every opportunity to fish with a passion, using his hand-tied flies – many of his own design. He has closely studied the nuances of fish behavior and how seasons, weather, and water quality are so closely connected to fishing success. His favorite species to pursue by fly is the steelhead. 

Interviewing the Fishing Experts

“What is the most unusual place you’ve fished?”

Max: That is an easy answer for me – several unnamed atolls in the Pacific for dogtooth tuna and giant trevally.

Steve: I would love to say something neat and obscure such as fishing native brook trout in Labrador Canada, but I’m actually kind of lame – it is my backyard. There is a pond in my neighborhood that when flooded will frequently back up into my yard.  This creates a perfect situation for largemouth bass to swim up the fake channel looking for all kinds of new food sources, as well as my flies, apparently. 

“I know you guys have some intriguing experience like guiding and making your own fly gear – please share more.”

Max: I started guiding when I was 20 in Alabama, when I should have been in my college accounting classes in Ohio. I did two several-month stints guiding for red fish and speckled trout in the Gulf region of Alabama and Louisiana. Mostly sight fishing and skinny water.

My experience building lures, flies, and rods came out of necessity because at the time a lot of the species I was chasing did not have properly designed tackle available from mainstream manufacturers. It has morphed into building beautiful tools for anglers that take a lot of pride in their gear and are pursuing a specific and hard-to-catch species. I really enjoy making flies and lures, as well as rods. I have been able to share this passion with members I have met at Briarwood. 

Steve: Tying flies is one of my favorite things to do; almost equally as much as the fishing itself. I’m always looking to both innovate with new patterns, as well as improve on old favorites. I particularly enjoy tying up a small box of flies the night before a trip to the water, which will be specific to the conditions and fish I will be targeting. Few things are as satisfying and enjoyable to me as catching a fish on a fly that I tied myself – especially some new and creative ones I designed like my latest I call the “flypala.”

“What is it about the largemouth bass that’s so appealing to you as an angler?”

Max: I would say accessibility, its range in Ohio and the Midwest, combined with the ability of the species to live in lakes, streams, and rivers of varying water quality and temperature. Their range of forage and how they can be caught is equally appealing. And on a personal note, I can’t understand any angler not thoroughly enjoying a largemouth blowing up on a top water fly! On a calm morning at Briarwood, there is nothing more awesome than that water breaking open and a hawg taking your topwater fly.

Steve: The appeal of catching largemouth bass to me is quite extensive. They are an aggressive species that is widely available geographically. You can fish for largemouth bass in nearly any pond, lake, or ditch as well as in the rivers.  And this certainly is true at the Briarwood Sporting Club. This makes it a familiar fish that you can become quite adept and skilled at catching.  There is also a very versatile set of tactics to use, particularly topwater, which can keep the fishing always fresh and fun. The visual display of a popper getting taken down by a bass is something to be seen.  

Largemouth bass are also appealing in that they are a great combination of hard enough fight, while still being low maintenance. By this, I mean that you don’t need to bring special tools for the trip such as a big net, long pliers, or a hook cutter like you might need with say pike or muskie. They are also not as delicate as trout in that they are not as sensitive to playing hard on the line for too long, requiring more highly oxygenated water, or being better off caught in a specific set of water temperatures. This does not mean to handle bass carelessly or with less respect, however, they are hardy enough to both survive about anywhere and be fished for with ease.  

“Why is it special for you to catch largemouth on a fly rod? What’s different about it? 

Max: A fly rod is an extremely effective tool for pursuing largemouth bass. Even anglers who mostly fish conventional tackle are realizing the effectiveness of a fly rod, which is drawing people into the sport of fly fishing who otherwise would have no interest in it. A fly’s ability to suspend, breathe, and pulsate in a natural manner is extremely lifelike and enticing to any predators including bass. And there are times when fish are in a negative mood and not truly feeding where a fly works better in getting fish to strike versus conventional methods.

My best memory of fly fishing is not actually a fly fishing memory, but a memory of a very well-respected long time bass angler taking me when I was in 6^th grade to fish for bass on Lake Okeechobee. The fishing was good, but the experience left an indelible mark on the techniques and the drive to catch true trophy sized fish. It drove me from a young angler pursuing any fish to an angler who wanted to catch trophy class fish.   

Steve: The whole experience of fly fishing for largemouth bass is just more fun in general than fishing with conventional gear. I enjoy the selection of the fly, deciding how I want to present it, and what actions I can manifest to entice a strike. One of the things that I hear is that conventional lures will out-fish flies. However, I would have to disagree. With the right fly, the movement and undulation of the materials in the water in many ways can be as appealing or more so than anything that can be presented with conventional gear, if it is fished properly. Many of the conventional lures that work can translate to the fly rod. You can tie and fish flies that mimic things like wacky rigged worms. 

Also, you can certainly jig for bass, and modern streamers provide a more realistic baitfish swim action than anything I have seen in a store or online. I’ve even begun tying fly versions of conventional lures such as the “flypala” which has worked just as well as any Rapala that I used to throw. The gap between the two styles is razor thin with modern materials, so to me what it comes down to is the enjoyment of the fly casting stroke along with the introduction of countless options of how to control the fly in the water. Mixing up full sink lines, sink tips, or floating lines along with the presentation allows limitless choices of how I want to fly fish for bass on any particular day.

For me the most memorable experience was just a particular day last spring when all possible factors seemed to work in my favor. The temperature was nice, it was a slightly overcast day, and the fish were in pre-spawn mode and almost overly aggressive. I apparently had just the fly they were looking for (a chartreuse feather game changer). Within just a 90-minute window of fishing a local lake near my home, I caught 23 bass, some of which were quite sizeable. Seemingly every single cast produced another take. It reinforced in me why this species can be so fun – and certainly on a fly rod. I hardly moved, and yet they just kept eating my fly over and over again. Trout would have spooked and likely moved on after the first fish or two. I would not have had access to that kind of fishing with other species in most cases. I am sure the experience would have been the same at Briarwood that day…perhaps better! 

Springtime Fly Fishing for Largemouth Bass

“When will the bass start hitting – conditions, water temp, etc.?”

Max: We regularly catch bass through the ice in water as cool as 38 degrees using active methods like jigging. But for spring fishing, they will start hitting with the water temperature at 50 degrees like it is in most places here in and around Ohio. Catching bass is all about finding where the fish will be in the current conditions. For spring, find places where water is flowing into a larger body – the bass like the warmer water entering the system. At Briarwood specifically, the water inlets at the North Lake and Pine Lake will hold many fish looking for forage coming into the lakes. With the water hitting 55 degrees now, they are starting their pre-spawn movement to shallower spawning grounds.

Steve: Bass are starting to hit more frequently now in most places in Ohio and surrounding states. They are actually fishable year round; however, the bite picks up in March–May as the spawn season commences each spring. We are entering one of the most productive time periods for catching this species in the entire year.  

When the water temperature hits the 50 to 55 degree range, as they are now, the bass bite will pick up as they enter pre-spawn mode. The fish begin to actively forage to get ready for the spawn period. Fishing won’t be lights out at these temps just yet, but it’s a lot better than it was the last few months.  

Once the water hits the 55 to 68 degree range, the spawn will kick off and the bite is about as good as it gets all year. The bass will be aggressive – females eat for spawning purposes and the males eat to defend the nests. This temperature zone will produce some of the most aggressive hard takes that you can get, even while fly fishing for largemouth bass. We’ll likely see this phase kick off here by mid-April in Ohio.

“What rod weight, lines, and leader size should anglers use while fly fishing for largemouth bass?” 

Max: Anything from a 6- to an 8-weight. The biggest leap of technology in this field in my opinion is the array of fly lines that can help you cast long distances accurately, and help you turn over even the most wind resistant flies with ease. Lines such as the Rio Bass Line, Rio Big Nasty Fly Line, Scientific Anglers Bass Bug, and Jungle Titan offer a varied amount of floating, intermediate, and sinking lines to cover all fishing conditions. As for leaders, the biggest mistake I see trout anglers fishing for bass make is leader length. A 9-foot trout tapered leader is inefficient at turning over a large, wind-resistant or heavy bass fly. A simple 6-foot leader with a 60-lb butt section going down to a 15 to 20-lb fluorocarbon tippet will do the job.

Steve: Rod weight is by preference; however, I would not go less than a 5-weight. For largemouth bass, I generally use a 7-weight myself as it presents the most utility. It really comes down to the flies you plan to present. If you’re throwing nymphs or small jigs, the 5-weight will be just fine. For long streamers or heavier flies with weighted dumbbell eyes, you are going to likely want to increase the rod weight. I use the 7-weight because it allows me to do just about anything, and I never feel limited in my fly box.

With regard to leader size, the bass are fortunately not “leader shy” like many other species including trout. I generally use a 5- to 7-foot leader and have adequate test rating to deal with pulling strong fish out of heavy structure if necessary. I use 15 to 20-lb mono, but will go stronger when conditions necessitate it. When fishing streamers, in particular, I’m less focused on things such as the taper of the leader, and often just tie on a single 5-foot piece of 20-lb mono.  

“What about your preferred bass flies…”

Max: As for surface flies while fly fishing for largemouth bass, I choose double barrel poppers, Sneaky Petes, and Dahlburg Divers –good for the “witching hour”.

My choices for sub-surface bass flies include Clouser minnows and Chockletts game changer – these are efficient bait fish patterns for fishing in open water over suspended structure.

Patterns such as Ehlers grim reaper, foam super worm, and Gulley worm are virtually weightless and can be fished on the bottom and through heavy structure with little or no chance of snagging.

I prefer darker colors in murky water or colors with lots of flash. In clear water, I use more natural colors and subdued patterns. At night or dusk, you can never go wrong with black.

Steve: For pre-spawn bass, I like to use flies that are going to be able to stay closer to, if not on, the bottom. My favorites are Clousers, crayfish imitations, wooly buggers, leach patterns (or other flies that use rabbit hair), and jig versions of squirmy wormies. Bass aren’t too color picky but black, brown, orange, and chartreuse have always worked well for me. I tie most of these flies in the size 2 to size 8 hook range, so pretty large. There is no need to go any smaller in my opinion.

Once the water transitions into spawning temps, I will continue to throw the previously mentioned patterns, but also throw larger streamers with more swim action. Examples include EP baitfish, Game Changers, muddler minnows, as well as some topwater flies like gurglers, double barrelled poppers, and frog imitations. I like to use bright colors on bright days, and darker colors on darker days or at night. Black, specifically, is my go-to when fly fishing for largemouth bass at night as it presents the best silhouette for the fish to see.  Streamer sizes vary, but predator hooks ranging from 3/0 to size 4 are pretty standard in my box.  

“How do you fish those flies?”

Max: When the water is colder, as in the spring, fish the heavy hook-up style flies on the bottom with short slow hops as the fish are rather lethargic and might follow the fly for some time before eating. Strip line with your hand at varying speeds trying to mimic an irregular or injured bait. As the water warms, speed of presentations need to increase so the fish has less time to commit to eating. Since the fish are more active in warmer water, this technique is more successful. When the water temperature goes above 70 degrees, it could be effective to slow the presentation back down.

Steve: I will use a floating line for most of the bottom bouncing flies, so I create a twitchy jig or lift action that seems to get their attention and produce reactionary strikes. If I’m going to be fishing any type of larger streamer, I will likely use a sink tip line to keep the fly down in the water column.  

In the colder temperatures, slow retrieves work best. I’ll give the fly a few seconds to fall before beginning the retrieve, and actually get a good amount of action just on the initial fall if I’m working the right area. Once the fly is in place, a figure eight style retrieve while imparting some action in the fly with the rod tip seems to work well.  

In warmer water temperatures, I can get away with more active stripping. Quicker stripping has the tendency to elicit aggressive, defensive strikes, particularly in shallow water as the male bass interpret the fly as a threat to the nest.  

As we enter the pre-spawn/spawn period, bass will start coming into the shallower parts of the water. The males will generally be in quite shallow, generally right near the bank. The females will hang back slightly, usually just off of any drop off. The perfect recipe to me is casting into relatively shallow water along a drop off near some type of structure or cover (e.g., cattails, lily pads, submerged branches). These areas congregate bass because it provides all of their basic needs – a virtual food conveyor belt of baitfish and insects that hang out there, shelter from predators and the sun, warmer water, and a place to spawn.  

“Anything else you think fly anglers should know to be most successful when fly fishing for largemouth bass?”

Max: One of the most common mistakes I see with anglers converting from trout fishing to fishing for other predator species is the way the angler strikes the fish. The strike needs to come from the stripping hand with the rod held low and to the side and not straight up.  A trout style set will pull the fly out a fish’s mouth the majority of the time. Also, when fishing a popper or jigging style presentation, it is important for the angler to give the fish ample time before striking. Count one thousand one, one thousand two after feeling the fish’s initial take. This gives the fish a chance to get a better grip on the prey item, increasing the angler’s hooking percentage.

Steve: This time of year and through the summer, the best bass fishing times are 6:00 to 9:00 AM and 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Bass can be a little sun shy and don’t like to be particularly active in the heat of the day. Fishing dawn and dusk is productive as this is when they are most actively foraging for food in my experience. Fly fishing for largemouth bass in the dark after sunset can also be fun. Top water flies like mice patterns, frogs, and poppers, can produce some really, really fun takes that may be hard to see but sound awfully cool when everything else is quiet. 

A big thanks to Max and Steve once again for sharing their insight and experience with us all. 

For over 40 years Briarwood Sporting Club, located in Bellefontaine, Ohio, has been a “slice of wilderness” in west central Ohio, delivering a relaxed atmosphere of soothing freshwater amid breathtaking rolling hills, meadows, and timber. Four streams are home to some very impressive “wall ready” trout – including rainbows, brown, brook, golden, blue and calico. While Briarwood offers superb fly fishing for trout, twelve lakes and ponds offer lunker bass, slab panfish, and other finned favorites like musky, hybrid striped bass, northern pike, walleye, and perch.

As a majestic and vast landscape, Briarwood is also one of America’s finest whitetail hunting destinations offering mature deer on expertly managed lands. Gorgeous hardwoods, pines, and meadows present a habitat that has plentiful food plots and wildlife openings.  

First-class lodging, 5-star service, a welcoming loafing lodge, and incredible and diverse wildlife viewing complete the perfect outdoor escape to create an unforgettable experience. 

Early Season Bass Fishing 

April 2020 

Just the facts please: Days are longer. Trees are budding and blooming. Birds are singing. Bass are on the move. Those are facts. Your mission? To find bass and catch them. 

Yes, spring has arrived and water temperatures, welcomed sunshine, and spring rains are causing the fish to move from their winter deep-water homes to secondary points, and ultimately spawning grounds. So, let’s help you read that favorite lake of yours so you can target the hot spots for casting your favorite baits and lures.  

In this post I am going to focus solely on finding the bass and helping us all understand why we will find them in certain locations during this time of the year. Let’s hit the water and think like a bass… 

Dropoffs forming a nice channel

From the depths 

Largemouth, Smallmouth and Stripers have been laying low in the depths during the winter. Not really feeding but storing reserves and waiting for spring like us. You can find them on the drop offs and deep banks – you know, the transition zones. But with the water temperatures now around 50 degrees and rising, they are on the move. You can certainly fish these spots for bass which are starting to feed and have some success, but the big catch is yet to come. Fish those points where the shoreline descends sharply right into the waterline. Read the topography of the surrounding area and look for color changes in the water to help indicate depth in the lake. But as days warm, focus on the hot spots. 

10.75 lb Largemouth from last week

Moving on  

Warm days, punctuated by the power from sun filled skies and warm breezes, are causing the water to reach critical spawning range of 55-65 degrees. Lunkers are leaving those deep winter homes and starting to look for forage; bait fish, crayfish, and frogs. They are on the move, foraging and slowly traveling from point to point, seeking critical structure. They have two priorities now – look for food and begin their move to the foliage shallows, coves, and flats for spawning.  

Stopping for a bite 

As bass are moving toward spawning grounds, they are beginning to actively feed – bulking up for the spawn. And like most predators, they like both protection and ambush cover afforded them by structure – both artificial, like docks and additive features including brush, pallet piles, and stake beds, and natural lake features – which we will cover next. Bass instinctively, and through learned behavior, know that most of these structures are holding the prey they are seeking, especially areas that lie between the surface and up to about six feet deep. These key features will be your casting target zones.

Fast-moving inlet flow

Now your job is to read the lake; recognize and understand its features. And, you have to think like a predator who is driven to survive and reproduce. What does the lake have to offer a bass in this ‘eat and reproduce mentality?’ The easy structures to find are the docks and if you know them, the locations of submerged structure or visible rock piles. But moving water coming from streams, inlet pipes and through channels can be excellent bass habitat. Flowing water attracts bass for two reasons – more oxygen and stirred up prey for bass (and equally important, more food for the bass prey!) At Briarwood, our lakes are fed by natural springs connected to each other via spillways and drain pipe. Areas close to these inlets create great fishing opportunities when the flow rate is high. But beyond this, look for the obvious and not so obvious points. These are known as secondary structures which are attractive to bass. Look for natural shoreline points, subtle coves, deeper cattail beds, shoreline dropoffs and submerged vegetation beds, and, even smaller rock structures. Read the shore and surrounding land for geologic and topographic changes that might be impacting the adjacent lake areas. Further, look for changes in water color, and even wave patterns or naturally, the evidence of bait fish. Any changes to the lakebed and shoreline can be excellent stopping and holding points for bass as they are on the move. This is especially true if they are located near shallow areas (2-3 feet deep) where spawning beds have been seen in prior years. Also note that heavy rains or storms may keep bass on these holding spots for even longer periods as water quality can confuse their natural movement patterns. 

Ask us! 

From mid-April to mid-May, bass fishing at Briarwood is excellent. When fishing one of our many lakes, ponds and streams, don’t hesitate to ask a Briarwood team member for our insight about structure and attractive lake features on any of our lakes or streams. We don’t keep that information secret!  

Tight lines my friends ~ Drew 

For over 40 years Briarwood Sporting Club has been a “slice of wilderness” in central Ohio, delivering a relaxed atmosphere of soothing freshwater amid breathtaking rolling hills, meadows, and timber. Four streams are home to some very impressive “wall ready” trout – including rainbows, brown, brook, golden, blue and calico. 

As a majestic and vast landscape, Briarwood abounds with plentiful Ohio trophy whitetails, lunker bass, slab panfish, and other finned favorites. Gorgeous hardwoods, pines, and meadows present a habitat that has plentiful food plots and wildlife openings.  

First-class lodging, 5-star service, a welcoming loafing lodge, and incredible and diverse wildlife viewing complete the perfect outdoor escape to create an unforgettable experience. 

To discover more visit www.briarwoodclub.com, or email Drew at drew@briarwoodclub.com 

Drew McCartt is an avid freshwater fisherman for over 50 years and a member at Briarwood for more than five. Here he serves as Director of Sporting Services.  Briarwood Sporting Club is a private fishing club located in Bellefontaine, Ohio.