What’s Biting Now: The Best Fish to Target in Late Spring !

As the chill of early spring fades and waters begin to warm, late spring marks one of the most exciting times of the year for anglers. Whether you're fishing rivers, lakes, or coastal waters, the fish are active, hungry, and on the move. So, what should you be casting for right now? Here are the top fish to target in late spring and tips to help you catch them.

• Largemouth Bass

Late spring is prime time for largemouth bass. As the water warms into the 60s and 70s (Fahrenheit), bass move into shallows to spawn, making them more visible and easier to target.

Spring Fishing Tips:

• Use soft plastic worms, spinnerbaits, or topwater lures near cover like weeds, docks, and submerged logs.

• Early morning and late evening are the most active times.

• Crappie

Crappie are highly active in late spring, especially around spawning beds in shallow, warm waters.

Best Fish to Catch in Spring:

• Use small jigs or minnows under a bobber.

• Look for crappie near brush piles, submerged trees, and shallow bays.

• Trout

As water temperatures rise in rivers and mountain streams, trout become more aggressive and feed more frequently.

Late Spring Fishing Techniques:

• Try fly fishing with nymphs and dry flies in moving water.

• In lakes, use spinners or live bait early in the morning when trout are near the surface.

• Bluegill & Sunfish

These panfish are abundant, aggressive, and perfect for beginners or family fishing trips.

Springtime Fishing Spots:

• Use worms, crickets, or small jigs near shorelines and shallow coves.

• Bluegill often school up around structure, making them easy to catch in numbers.

• Catfish

With rising water temps, catfish become more active, especially at night.

Seasonal Fishing Guide Tip:

• Use stink baits, chicken liver, or cut bait on the bottom.

• Fish near deep holes, drop-offs, or around submerged structure.

• Walleye

Walleye move to deeper water as spring transitions into summer but remain active feeders.

Best Times to Fish in Spring:

• Troll crankbaits or jig with minnows near drop-offs, points, or weed lines.

• Low-light periods are best: think dawn, dusk, and overcast days.

Late spring offers some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. With a little planning and the right gear, you can reel in everything from trophy bass to buckets of panfish. So grab your rod, chest waders (we recommend 8Fans for all-day comfort), and get ready to make the most of this season!

Want more spring fishing tips and gear guides? Subscribe to our blog and follow 8Fans on social media.

Happy fishing! 🌿🎣

#LateSpringFishing #FishingTips #8FansFishing #BestFishToCatch #SpringFishingGuide