Largemouth Bass

If you're looking for largemouth bass in the Clinton, NJ area, the South Branch Raritan River and nearby Spruce Run Reservoir are your best bets. The river offers a mix of structure, from fallen trees to rocky outcroppings, perfect for targeting bass. Spruce Run, a larger body of water, provides classic reservoir fishing with submerged timber and weed beds. Spring and fall are prime times, as the bass are actively feeding before and after the summer heat. For the river, try working crankbaits and spinnerbaits along the edges of cover. In Spruce Run, focus on the coves and points with plastic worms or jigs. A local tip: access the river from the many bridge crossings along Route 31. Be mindful of water levels, especially after heavy rain, as the river can become turbid. The bass here tend to be opportunistic feeders, so don't be afraid to experiment with different presentations.