Pro Tips Weekly: J.T. Kenney

Baitfish schools ring dinner bell for fall bass

As soon as the weather and the water temperature begin to cool off, the fish really start keying on schools of baitfish rather than bream or crawfish. Shad, alewives and other baitfish will be concentrating and heading toward the creeks and coves. Along the way they’ll be trailed by bass. Start watching for baitfish schools and try fishing shallower water, or at least checking it for fish with baitfish imitators.

Buzzbaits, spinnerbaits, rattlebaits and topwaters in shad patterns are some of my all-time fall favorites. But remember, Alabama rigs will be coming into their own soon, too. Whether you fish lakes in New York, Kentucky or anywhere else, find where the most baitfish schools are gathering and stay with them. Bass won’t be far away.

—- Straight Talk pro J.T. Kenney, Palm Bay, Fla.