The lakes of the Alabama Bass Trail are home to many experienced anglers who know where to find the bass and how to catch them. The trail is known for largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass and much more. Here are the lures they list as tops for fishing our lakes year-round.

1.) Jigs – As the undisputed top year-round bait, the versatility of jigs makes them the perfect lure across the Alabama Bass Trail map. The variety of cover, depth and structure can be both challenging and fun and the jig, either alone or in combination with trailers, never disappoint.

2.) Crankbait – The variety of options among crankbaits make them a great choice for all seasons and water conditions. Slender works better in winter, wider as the water warms. Wobbles and wiggles, lips and lipless, shad patterns and contrasts all add to the usefulness of these versatile lures.

3.) Jerkbait – Most anglers think of these as winter baits but guess what. If you throw them in the summer, they’ll work for you then, too, particularly in the hunt for smallmouth. The key difference for jerkbait success in warmer waters is to work them faster, keeping them moving instead of sinking.

4.) Finesse worm – The best thing to be said about any bait is that it gets bit. They may not be the flashiest of lures but no matter the conditions or the time of day, these worms get bit. Twitching around docks and in vegetation is where many anglers find the most success.

5.) Swimbait – Gaining in popularity across the country, swimbaits have the variety and versatility to be successful on the trail all year. There are hard or soft lures to emulate an assortment of baitfish. They are getting praise in most any conditions, as long as the water is clear to moderate.

Take advantage of the advice of our experienced anglers and try your luck on the trail. Or if you want to leave the gear choices to someone else, go with a pro. Check out the guides listed on each of the Lakes pages and let one take you out on his home waters. They’ll be happy to provide the lures, put you on the spots and share their knowledge and their passion for fishing in Alabama.