November Bass Fishing: Best Lures and Tactics for Big Bass
November can be a thrilling month for bass fishing, especially in Cornwall, as small 1lb bass typically disappear, giving way to larger, hungrier fish eager to bulk up before winter. We’ve seen big bass smashing lures with ferocity, especially when weather conditions align. With sea temperatures dropping to around 14°C and the waters becoming murkier, lure selection and strategy are crucial. This guide delves into our top lures and tactics for November bass fishing, optimised for anglers seeking the larger bass, as well as November fishing lures and estuary fishing tips. From paddle-tail soft plastics to tidal strategies, we’ll try and help you land those 5lb+ bass.
November’s Bass Fishing Dynamics
In November, climate change may delay the shift, but typically, sub-1lb bass vanish, and larger bass dominate, feeding aggressively on squid, garfish, and mackerel. Squid are abundant inshore, sometimes even hitting surface lures, while baitfish flock to estuaries, and garfish and mackerel persist on the coast (if tuna haven’t depleted them). Murky waters reduce the effectiveness of surface lures in deep coastal areas, but they remain deadly in shallow estuaries. Weather is a key factor in planning trips during fair conditions, but stay cautious, as storms can arise quickly. Check knots and line regularly, as big bass exploit any rig weakness.
Estuary Fishing: Shallow Water Success
Estuaries are prime in November, with baitfish attracting big bass to shallow, weedy areas. Surface lures like poppers or stickbaits work well in shallow water, but most soft plastics are our top choice for larger fish. Weighted paddle-tails, either with jigheads for depth or weighted hooks to skim the seabed, provoke strikes. Fish 2-3 hours before or after low tide, particularly on outgoing tides, as bass use the current to hunt. Black lures excel at night fishing under moonlight, with sparkly finishes adding flash in murky water.
Top Estuary Lures
-
Tip: Retrieve paddle-tails slowly with occasional twitches to mimic injured baitfish.
Open Coastline: Targeting Big Bass
On the open coast, focus on areas with strong tidal flow where birds signal baitfish. Murky water limits surface lures in deep areas, so switch to paddle-tail soft plastics or shallow-diving lures. Fish beaches or rocks during fair weather with swell, targeting 2-3 hours before/after high tide. At night, calm seas are safer and productive for larger bass, often lurking below smaller fish. Use white or sparkly lures to stand out in low visibility, retrieving fast to trigger aggressive strikes.
Top Coastline Lures
-
Shallow-Diving Lures: For murky coastal waters.
-
Tip: Use glittery lures on moonlit nights to enhance visibility.
Tips for November
-
Weather Planning: Fish during fair weather pockets, but prioritise safety and retreat if conditions worsen.
-
Tidal Focus: Target 2-3 hours before/after high/low tide, especially outgoing tides in estuaries, to catch bass riding the current.
-
Stay Stealthy: Approach quietly, cast from shore first, and wade cautiously to avoid spooking bass in shallow estuaries.
-
Paddle-Tail Power: Use large paddle-tails (white or black) with weighted hooks or jigheads for big bass in estuaries or coastal shallows.
-
Night Fishing: Fish under moonlight with white, black, or sparkly lures, minimising headtorch use to stay stealthy.
-
Cover Ground: Move after 20 minutes if no bites; cover estuary channels or coastal hotspots.
-
Log Catches: Record tide, lure, and location in a catch report to track patterns.
-
Gear Prep: Tie strong knots, set drag to 25-30% of line strength, and inspect line for wear.
Why November is a Must-Fish Month
November’s big, aggressive bass, driven by abundant squid and baitfish, make it a top month for bass fishing. Paddle-tail soft plastics in estuaries and shallow-diving lures on the coast unlock decent fish. Plan around weather, fish tidal flows, and leverage night fishing to land those 5lb+ bass.
Tight lines!
Paddletails Shads
The colour of the lure can make a huge difference. If the sea is murky then stick with the whites day and night, but if it's a clear day or night when the moon is bright and the water has some clarity to it we find black, green & brown colours work best. If they have a slight sparkle to them that's an added bonus also.
5” Cornish Snax
Don't be afraid to bounce these along the bottom as generally this is where the bass will be searching for food. Along the coast if the surf is clean and clear with loads of white water the bass will tend to smash anything with a tail regardless of what it looks like. Can't wait to get out when the weather is kind as this month could produce your PB you have been searching for all year. Tight lines and be safe. Hope this blog helps you catch that elusive 5+lb bass.