Largemouth Bass

Although Long Beach, Indiana, sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, targeting largemouth bass requires a shift in focus to the inland lakes and ponds nearby. While the big lake offers fantastic salmon and trout fishing, largemouth are more at home in the calmer, warmer waters further inland. Look to smaller lakes and reservoirs within a 30-60 minute drive for the best opportunities. Spring and fall are peak seasons, with pre-spawn and post-spawn periods offering excellent action. A local's secret: check out the smaller, less-publicized lakes; they often hold surprisingly large bass that haven't seen as many lures. A practical tip: pay attention to the wind. On windy days, bass tend to congregate on the downwind side of the lake, where baitfish are concentrated. The largemouth in these northern Indiana waters can be aggressive, so don't be afraid to experiment with different lure types and retrieves. Be prepared for some stained water conditions, which can make brighter colored lures more effective.