Largemouth Bass

Targeting Largemouth Bass around Kelso, Washington, means exploring the sloughs and backwaters connected to the Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers. These areas offer the kind of habitat bass love: submerged vegetation, fallen timber, and fluctuating water levels that concentrate fish. The best time to fish is during the pre-spawn in spring (April-May) and again in the fall as bass fatten up before winter. Look for warmer pockets of water in the early spring, and focus on areas with heavy cover. A practical tip: the Cowlitz River boat launch provides access to many of these productive areas, but be prepared for strong currents, especially during periods of high water. Also, pay attention to tide charts, as tidal influence can significantly impact water levels and bass behavior in these lower river systems. The bass here are generally healthy and aggressive, but can be pressured in easily accessible areas, so don't be afraid to explore less-traveled backwaters.