Largemouth Bass

For largemouth bass near Buckley, Illinois, focus your efforts on the numerous small lakes, ponds, and drainage ditches that dot the landscape. These smaller bodies of water can hold surprising numbers of bass, particularly during the warmer months. Spring (April-June) is an excellent time to target bass as they move shallow to spawn. Look for areas with submerged vegetation, lily pads, and fallen timber. Summer evenings can also be productive, especially around dusk. A local tip: many of these ponds are on private property, so always obtain permission before fishing. Also, be aware that water levels can fluctuate significantly depending on rainfall. The bass in these smaller waters tend to be opportunistic feeders, so a variety of lures can be effective, including spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and plastic worms. Don't be afraid to experiment to see what the fish are biting on each day. The average size of the bass may not be huge, but the sheer number of fish can make for a fun and rewarding fishing experience.