Residential Bass

South Florida is dotted with small ponds and lakes in countless residential communities. Many times, these ponds are loaded with big largemouth bass just waiting to be caught. When weather or tides prevent me from hitting the saltwater flats, I usually go pond-hopping.

Community pods are holes dug for fill dirt that are then filled with water and stocked with bass

 

 

I decided to hit a few holes with fishing buddy Joe Jones for a few hours. We visited a couple of ponds in Bonita Springs. Usually these ponds are barren edged with not a lot of features. They often vary in depth as well. Any structure like a drainage pipe or lily pads will attract bass. Most of these ponds are not overfished so the bass will readily take any bait. I have experimented with spinners, crankbaits and even live shiners, but topwater works best for me.

 

Look for any structure that will attract fish

Even fountains will attract bass as they help aerate the water

 

 

It didn't take long to start finding the fish. Topwater works well because it attracts bass as it creates a commotion on the water. Joe and I kept hooking fish after fish.

 

Given an ample amount of time, some of these bass can top 10 lbs. Florida bass enjoy year round growth and quickly reach trophy size. Because these ponds are thriving mini ecosystems, they attract other animals. Many types of birds come in to enjoy the baitfish.

So, next time you visit South Florida, pack a fishing rod and visit one or more of these aquatic gems!