How to Catch Spawning Sand Bass in Creeks

Find the right location. To find spawning sand or white bass, you need to look for moving water where a river or creek feeds into a larger water body. In some areas of the country this is a seasonal period of time; as snows thaw creating fast moving conditions. The sand bass will keep moving into the upper reaches of the river or creek, as long as the current keeps moving. As soon as the current stops, they stop. They will either swim downstream or settle in the area where the current ceased. Don't waste time in one area, the bass are moving, you need to move too.

Go when the timing is right. Spawning sand bass are the most active in moving waters. When there is a rain storm that will get local creek and river waters moving, that is the time to go. Waiting even 12 hours after the rain has passed will significantly reduce the number of fish you will catch. The movement of the current tells the sand bass that it is time to begin procreating and that instinct is a strong one.

Use the right bait and technique. On larger rivers, use the larger lures like the quarter ounce jigs or spoons. On creeks use the smaller jigs, curly tailed grubs or crankbaits. Try to cast as close to shore as possible, without getting into the weeds. Cast out into the fray and let the jig or lure sink down to the bottom of the creek and jerk the rod slightly upward, so that the jig rises from the bottom. Use the same motion that you would for catching a large mouth bass with a worm lure. Repeat a couple of more times and if there is no hit, try casting in a new location. If there are still no results, try moving the boat further upstream.

Remove the first bass you catch, set it on the stringer or put it in the live catch container and cast again. The frenzy may be hundreds or thousands of them, as long as you keep catching, keep casting.