The docks will hold smallmouth bass from spring through fall, however, the spring time is usually best. On some bodies of water, the docks may hold a lot of smallmouth bass while on others, the docks may not be productive at all. Spring is usually best when dock fishing for smallmouth bass, however, the deeper docks may hold bass all summer and fall.
Spring is Best
You may be able to catch bass all year around the docks, but the spring time is very tough to beat. This is the time of year where you will find smallmouth bass all around the docks in shallower water as long as there is some sand and rock bottom there. These are great spots for them to spawn.
Fish the Deeper Docks
In summer and fall, the deeper docks may still hold some smallmouth bass. Make sure to fish the part of the dock that has the most shade as well. You can often find smallmouth bass in these spots. It may only be a fish or two, but it’s a productive pattern if you are fishing a lake with a lot of docks.
Best Ways to Fish the Docks
The Drop Shot Rig is King
The drop shot rig is just an awesome way to present soft plastics around the docks. Keep your bait in the strike zone longer and catch a lot more bass.
Weightless Rigs
A weightless rigged soft plastic bait can be super effective next to the docks.
Throw a Bass Jig
It is tough to beat a bass jig when fishing the docks. Fish the sides of the docks, the end of the docks and up underneath the docks and you’ll have some success.
Create a Reaction Strike by Going Heavier
If you fish a jig or some type of soft plastic rigged with enough weight, the sudden fall of your bait will draw many strikes when fishing around the docks. Get your bait close to the docks and as it falls, get ready for a bite.
