1. Match your lure with the color of the water. When the lake or river you are fishing in is dark or murky, you want to choose a darker color lure or a dark to light contrast. Pumpkinseed to Black in color provide a good shadow, and something like chartruse tail with a black body plastic worm. With clear water you will want to use light or reflective lures that will reflect as much sunlight as possible.

2. Pay attention to the weather and sunlight. When fishing early morning, the water is cooler and the bass are closer to the surface of the water, so use a shallow running lure ex. buzzbait, weightless worm. In the afternoon look for shadows over the water and fish deeper at least 6-10 feet using a spinnerbait or shad rap type lure.

3. In early spring pre-spawn and spawn you will want to fish the northern part of a lake, keeping an eye out for river inlets and drop-offs because bass will nest there. When fishing near a nest use a craw, lizard or jig - these resemble a "threat" and will stimulate a defense strke from bass. Later in the summer and early fall Bass are closer to the center of lakes and southern walls hiding in drop-offs and cover.

4. Take it slow. The majority of strikes that you will have will happen shortly after the lure hits the surface and when its falling. There are only a couple lures that are good for constant retreive and those are buzzbaits and inline spinners. Be patient and retrieve in a slow sporadic motion resembling an injured baitfish.

5. Tackle and the type of lure that you use is vital to the success of your fishing. Having a good presentation and proper tackle will make your lure better resemble a baitfish and prompt more strikes. There are many types of fishing line available, I use Vanish Transition on my spinning reels, and I have Power Pro Braid on my baitcasters. But you will want to try different types and see what works best for your fishing needs.