The first significant warming trend of the late-winter months excites bass anglers everywhere and fills them with the hope that spring fishing might soon be within reach. Despite the lingering cold of winter, extended warming trends and slightly longer days initiate the traditional migration patterns of bass and baitfish into creeks and tributaries to prepare for the spring spawn. That first subtle rise in water temperature—even by a degree or two—is what veteran tournament pro and fishing instructor Randy Blaukat defines as the official start to pre-spawn bass fishing.
The Missouri-based veteran spends many late-winter days instructing clients on the fine art of...