Vermont’s Catch-and-Release Bass Fishing Season Kicks Off with Spectacular Angling Opportunities

The warmth of spring brings a flurry of excitement to Vermont’s lakes and rivers as the catch-and-release bass fishing season gets underway. For several weeks, anglers can indulge in some of the most thrilling bass fishing experiences in New England, thanks to a combination of optimal weather, minimal boat traffic, and the voracious appetite of largemouth and smallmouth bass. As Vermont Fish and Wildlife biologist Bernie Pientka notes, spring catch-and-release bass fishing offers a unique and captivating experience for those who venture onto the water. “It’s truly a special time to be on the water in Vermont, and the fishing can be simply spectacular,” he emphasizes. Several factors contribute to the exceptional quality of Vermont’s catch-and-release bass fishing. Firstly, the onset of warmer weather in spring triggers a feeding frenzy among the bass population. As water temperatures rise, largemouth and smallmouth bass begin to seek out more substantial food sources, including a variety of artificial lures. This period of heightened feeding activity creates an environment that is ideal for catch-and-release bass fishing. Secondly, the reduced boat traffic during the spring season allows anglers to focus on their fishing without the distractions and disruptions that often accompany more crowded waters. This peaceful atmosphere enables anglers to concentrate on their craft, increasing the likelihood of landing a prized bass. Furthermore, Vermont’s catch-and-release bass fishing season coincides with the period when bass are congregating around areas close to where they plan to spawn. During this time, the bass are staging and concentrating in specific locations, making it an excellent opportunity for anglers to target them using catch-and-release techniques. During this season, all bass must be immediately released after being caught, and only artificial lures may be used. The use of live bait is also prohibited during the catch-and-release season, ensuring that the fish are not harmed or stressed during the fishing process. To maximize the chances of landing a bass during the catch-and-release season, anglers can employ various tactics and lure choices. According to state fisheries biologist Shawn Good, the optimal time to target pre-spawn bass is when water temperatures reach between 48°F to 56°F. During this period, bass move into the shallows to warm up and feed heavily for a couple of weeks in preparation of spawning activities. Good also emphasizes the importance of understanding the behavior of pre-spawn bass. Unlike many anglers who believe that early season bass fishing is all about targeting bass that are actively spawning, Good notes that this is not the case. Instead, pre-spawn bass are typically aggressive, grouped up, and readily catchable. To take advantage of the exceptional angling opportunities offered by Vermont’s catch-and-release bass fishing season, anglers should follow these basic tips:
• **Let water temperatures dictate your tactics and lure choices**: Fishing slowly on the bottom with jig-style baits can be most effective shortly after ice-out. As water temperatures rise into the 48 to 58-degree range, moving baits such as spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and stickbaits can be big producers. • **Look for rocky shorelines and marshy back bays**: Shallow, gradual rocky shorelines consisting of ledge, rock, gravel, or boulders will hold heat and warm up first, attracting baitfish and ultimately feeding smallmouth and largemouth bass. Marshy, weedy bays will also warm up quickly and attract largemouth bass. • **Pay attention to the clues**: If you catch a fish, get a bite, or see a fish follow your lure, take another pass through the same area. Many fish will often stack up on the same structure during the spring as they transition from winter to summer haunts. • **Visit the Vermont Fish and Wildlife website for more information**: For catch-and-release bass fishing regulations, licensing information, and fishing tips, visit the Vermont Fish and Wildlife website at www.vtfishandwildlife.com.