Largemouth Bass

For Largemouth Bass near Wathena, Kansas, the Missouri River oxbow lakes and associated backwaters are your best bet. These areas, like Brown's Lake State Fishing Lake, provide the ideal habitat: plenty of cover in the form of submerged timber, vegetation, and fluctuating water levels. Spring and fall are peak seasons. During the spring spawn, target shallow, protected coves with spinnerbaits, jigs, or soft plastics. In the fall, bass will be actively feeding before winter, so focus on points and ledges with crankbaits or Carolina rigs. A local tip: be aware of the river's influence on water levels and clarity. Heavy rains upstream can muddy the water quickly, so adapt your lure choices accordingly. The bass in this area are known for being aggressive, likely due to the abundant forage. Be prepared for a good fight, especially in heavy cover.