I grew up in northern Illinois and spent much of my adult life in northern Wisconsin. As a lifelong largemouth bass fisherman, I know how cruel and unreasonably long winter can be for the Northern states. I also know what a magical fishing time late fall can be. I know all too well that desire to enjoy one more day of open water fishing, before my lakes are completely frozen over for the next five months. No matter the weather, if I could get my boat in the water and if I was pretty sure the launch wouldn’t be frozen when I returned at the end of the day, I would go fishing.

The problem with largemouth bass in late fall in these weed-filled natural lakes was their very predictable positioning and behavior, as well as their larger than normal physical size. As uncomfortable as the weather can be, fishing can make up for it.

WATCH THIS VIDEO DEMONSTRATING THESE LATE FALL BASS TACTICS

Late fall marks a time of transition, especially in the northern United States. Lakes with good aquatic weed growth are changing. The first cold, hard frosts of the season have killed off the shallowest weeds in your lake for the winter. As cold weather persists, shallow and then deeper grasslands will follow. Eventually, only the deepest weeds at the outer edge of where vegetation grows the rest of the year will remain green and provide a suitable environment for bass. This means that even if, throughout the summer, large areas of your lake have been a happy home to the bass population, now only the small remaining outer edges will do and all the bass will be concentrated there.

It’s really as simple as finding the deepest weeds in the lake. Of course, quality electronics will make this task more efficient, but you don’t need the latest technology to do this job well. Start following the contours of points and pockets to deeper water. In most lakes you will find this weed edge between 10 and 20 feet deep. Of course, some regions will produce better than others. In general, focus on point spikes, inside turns, and unusual contour changes.

Yes, there will be some days where a real display of finesse is the only way to get them to bite. But what I’ve always loved about this time of year is the consistency of a 1/2 to 3/4 ounce jig and a plastic trailer. I rig it on a good, heavy action 7’3″ to 7’6″ baitcasting rod, and a reliable, medium-fast, 7.3:1, baitcasting reel, spooled with line 20-pound fluorocarbon test kit. There’s nothing like loading a big bass in deep water with this good, solid gear.

Once you’ve positioned yourself just outside of those last few green weeds, make medium-length casts so your jig falls vertically along the outside edge. Monitor your line carefully for any twitching or unusual behavior and set the hook strong. Once you hit the bottom, give it a simple hop/jump and let it fall back down. Repeat this four or five times until you think you have moved the lure away from the cover, then reel it in and repeat. Fish methodically and with concentration. Don’t be in a hurry to cover a lot of water. If necessary, start making adjustments by moving your casts into the weeds a foot or two and slowly pulling your jig through them and into the open air. Eventually you will know how the active fish are positioned that day.

I know I said earlier that I wouldn’t let bad weather stop me from fishing, but I think I should follow through on that advice. The weather in late fall can be unpredictable and the water temperature is as cold as it will be all year round. Always put your safety first. Invest in good cold weather and waterproof clothing. I have never regretted a single penny invested in high quality gear to keep me warm and dry when fishing. From my personal experience, Greens, Sims And AFTCO never let me down. I promise you, you will be so happy to be ready for the cold. If you respect Mother Nature and dress for the conditions, the worst day of the year can be the best fishing day.

And although it can be cumbersome, wearing your flotation vest at all times can save your life, especially if you’re fishing alone. Accidentally falling into the lake this time of year is a much different situation than in July. Don’t take unnecessary risks.

Late fall bass fishing along deep weed edges can be incredibly rewarding for those prepared to brave harsh weather and changing seasons. Armed with the proper knowledge, gear, and techniques, you can catch the biggest, biggest bass of the year. And no matter how good the fishing is, unlike the rest of the season, you’ll almost always have the lake to yourself.