Largemouth Bass

If you're looking for largemouth bass in western Kentucky, Madisonville offers some excellent opportunities. The numerous small lakes and ponds in Hopkins County, many of which are privately owned but accessible with permission, provide ideal habitat for growing big bass. For public access, check out nearby Lake Beshear or the smaller city lakes. Spring and fall are prime times, as the bass are actively feeding in shallower water. During the spawn in the spring, target weedy areas and submerged timber with spinnerbaits or soft plastics. In the fall, focus on areas near creek channels and points. A local tip: many of the smaller lakes warm up quickly in the spring, so don't be afraid to start early in the season. Also, pay attention to water clarity; stained water often holds the biggest fish. The bass in this region tend to be aggressive, so don't be afraid to experiment with different retrieves and lure presentations.