The Angler's Calendar: A Seasonal Lure Guide
Matching your lure to the season is one of the most effective ways to catch more fish.
Fish behavior changes dramatically throughout the year based on water temperature, spawning cycles, and forage availability. Understanding these patterns is crucial for consistent success. This is our official guide to the best seasonal fishing lures for bass and other species, featuring recommendations from the Pucci lineup.
Spring: The Pre-Spawn Frenzy (45-60°F)
As water temperatures rise, fish move from their deep wintering holes into shallow areas to feed aggressively before they spawn. This is a prime time for reaction baits that cover water and trigger strikes.
- Recommended Lures: Lipless Crankbaits, Squarebill Crankbaits, and Spinnerbaits.
- Why They Work: These lures can be fished quickly to find active fish. Their vibration and flash are highly effective in the often-stained water of early spring. Red and crawfish patterns are particularly effective, mimicking a key part of a bass's diet this time of year.
Summer: Topwater Mornings & Deep Structure Afternoons (65°F+)
Fish metabolism is at its peak. They will feed aggressively in the shallows during low-light hours (early morning and late evening) but often retreat to deeper, cooler, more oxygenated water during the heat of the day.
- Recommended Lures: Topwater Poppers and Walking Baits (like the Pucci Striker Pro), Deep-Diving Crankbaits, and large 10-inch Plastic Worms.
- Why They Work: Topwater lures capitalize on the prime low-light feeding window. During the day, our Deep Diver Crankbaits and large worms can reach fish holding on offshore structures like points, ledges, and humps.
Pro Tip: Summer is also a great time for finesse techniques when the bite gets tough under high sun and fishing pressure. Switch to a lighter line and a small, natural-colored soft plastic on a drop shot rig to tempt wary fish.
Fall: Chasing the Baitfish Migration (50-65°F)
As water cools, fish sense winter approaching and begin to feed heavily again. They often group up and aggressively chase large schools of migrating baitfish (like shad) into the backs of creeks and coves. Your goal is to "match the hatch" and imitate these baitfish.
- Recommended Lures: Jerkbaits, Swimbaits (like the Pucci Viper), and Spoons.
- Why They Work: These lures perfectly mimic the size, shape, and erratic, dying movement of fleeing baitfish, which is exactly what bass and other predators are keying in on during the fall.