Largemouth Bass

For largemouth bass in southwest Washington, Ridgefield offers access to some excellent fisheries along the Columbia River floodplain. The key is exploring the maze of sloughs, backwaters, and lakes that dot the area. Lake River is a particularly popular spot, offering a mix of lily pads, submerged timber, and docks that hold bass. Spring and early summer are the peak times, as the fish are actively spawning and feeding in the shallows. Focus on throwing topwater lures early and late in the day, switching to soft plastics and jigs as the sun rises. A local tip: Launching at the Ridgefield Marina provides easy access to Lake River and the surrounding waterways. Also, be aware of the strong currents in the Columbia River itself; stick to the calmer backwaters for the best bass fishing. The largemouth here tend to be aggressive, so don't be afraid to experiment with different lures and techniques.