Under average conditions or in times of high water, there is usually plenty of prime habitat for bass in Florida’s mostly eutrophic bodies of water. Drop-offs, fallen trees, sand bars, submerged structure, land points, deep-cut banks, and areas with thick aquatic vegetation are among the best places to look for largemouth; but, when levels are low, productive areas are significantly reduced in both size and number. In many instances, normally good locations may even be left high-and-dry by the receding water. Such was the case this past winter and early spring when record low water levels were documented in many locations of the State.

• As the water recedes, look for schools of small finfish in coves that have become too shallow to accommodate largemouth. Bass will frequently prowl the edges of such locations looking to pick-off any of these small fish that eventure from their sanctuary into deeper water. As these shallow sloughs dry up, the small prey are forced to migrate into deeper water where they often concentrate in schools and become easy targets for the largemouth.

• As the water recedes, look for schools of small finfish in coves that have become too shallow to accommodate largemouth. Bass will frequently prowl the edges of such locations looking to pick-off any of these small fish that eventure from their sanctuary into deeper water. As these shallow sloughs dry up, the small prey are forced to migrate into deeper water where they often concentrate in schools and become easy targets for the largemouth.

• Any remaining aquatic plants are likely to hold bass if the surrounding water is sufficiently deep; however, even if the water is too shallow for bass, they will often be nearby waiting to ambush any wandering prey that may be using the vegetation for shelter.

• Low-water conditions can also reveal many physical features (bars, holes, troughs, etc.) and structures (such as sunken logs, fence posts, etc.) on the bottom that may have been previously invisible. These are prime locations for largemouth. Not only do these features hold bass during low water, but they also attract them when levels are higher, so it pays to remember their exact location for future reference.

• As levels drop, bass are compelled to leave their normal plant-filled habitat and move to open areas with deeper water where they will often gather in schools.

• While deep holes and undercut banks are always excellent locations to look for bass, they are especially good when the water is low. During the driest periods, these pockets will sometimes harbor a surprisingly large number of fish.

• One of my favorite places to look for bass is at the mouth of any tributary, regardless of size, that feeds into the area I’m fishing. Bass often congregate in such locations to feed on prey swept along with the current into the main body of water. Tributaries and even small rivulets are especially productive after a rain when the flow of water increases.

• Mats of vegetation drifting in open water will often hold bass underneath. The floating mats make great spots from which the bass can ambush prey and they provide protection from Florida’s seemingly ever-present sun during the dry season.

Topwater action is usually at a peak when the water is low and any variation of a bass bug that is popped, skipped, or slid across the surface is likely to draw the attention of a hungry bass. That’s why I rely almost entirely on poppers during dry conditions. My favorite line for fishing bass bugs is actually one designed primarily for saltwater, the RIO Bonefish Quick-Shooter. It handles extremely well in the tropical Florida heat and floats high even in freshwater, unlike those of several other manufacturers’ whose saltwater lines have a tendency to not float as high and even slowly sink in some cases. In addition, the Quick-Shooter’s front taper turns over large bass flies with ease. Six-, 7-, and 8-weight rods will all get the job done. I typically rely on RIO’s specialty 12# test Bass Leaders to provide excellent turnover of wind-resistant popping bugs in sizes that normally range between size 1 and 4. These leaders also have the added benefit of being strong enough to bring in Florida Largemouth Bass of trophy proportions………a real possibility when the fish are concentrated into smaller areas of suitable habitat.

Low-water bass fishing usually requires that you try several different spots before you’re able to come across one that’s productive; but, once fish are located they will often be found in concentrations that can provide relatively steady action.