What do I throw when it’s 50 degrees in the morning and 70 in the afternoon?

Ah, the classic conundrum of fluctuating temperatures! When you're planning a fishing day that starts with a nippy 50 degrees in the morning and warms up to a pleasant 70 by the afternoon, you're in for a treat, my friend. This is the perfect scenario to experiment and adapt as the day progresses.

Morning Strategy: Cold and Calculated

In the chilly morning hours, bass and other game fish are likely to be a bit sluggish. They're still waking up, much like us before our morning coffee. Start your day with a slow and subtle approach.

• Jerkbaits and slow-sinking swimbaits are ideal in colder conditions. Their slow movement mimics a dying baitfish, an easy meal that even the laziest fish can't resist. You might want to check out the TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Multi Jointed Swimbaits for a lifelike option.

• Jigs with a soft plastic trailer can also be effective. They can be worked slowly along the bottom where fish might be holding. The MadBite Bladed Jig Fishing Lures offer irresistible vibrating action that can coax even the most lethargic bass.

• Consider targeting deeper structures or drop-offs where the water temperature is more stable.

Afternoon Strategy: Warm and Wild

As the sun climbs and the mercury hits a delightful 70 degrees, fish activity is likely to increase. It's time to switch gears and get a little more aggressive.

• Spinnerbaits and crankbaits are perfect for covering water quickly and finding active fish. They create a lot of vibration and flash, attracting fish from a distance.

• Topwater lures can also come into play, especially over shallow flats or near cover. A good topwater strike is as thrilling as it gets!

• If you're fishing a pond and want some specific tips, check out this video on the top 5 lures for pond fishing by Brent Chapman.

Practical Tip

Adaptability is key when fishing variable temperatures. Keep your tackle box versatile and be ready to switch tactics as conditions change. Pay attention to signs of fish activity like surface disturbances or baitfish presence to guide your lure selection.

In the end, it's all about enjoying the process. Every cast is a chance to learn and connect with nature. So, get out there, try different things, and most importantly, have a blast!