Largemouth Bass

For largemouth bass angling in the Athens, West Virginia area, you'll want to focus on the smaller lakes and ponds scattered throughout the region. While Bluestone Lake is nearby, the smaller impoundments often provide more consistent action for bass. Look for places with plenty of cover, such as lily pads, fallen timber, and docks. Spring and fall are the best seasons to target largemouth, as they are more active during these times due to favorable water temperatures. A good local tip is to use weedless lures, like Texas-rigged worms or spinnerbaits, to navigate the heavy cover. The bass population in these smaller lakes is generally healthy, with fish ranging from 1 to 4 pounds being common. Access to some ponds might require permission from landowners, so always be respectful and ask beforehand. Also, be aware of the regulations regarding bass fishing in West Virginia, including size and creel limits.