Fishing enthusiasts looking to catch big bass often head to matted vegetation. But, as with any type of fishing, there are certain techniques and strategies that can make the experience more enjoyable and fruitful. Jessie Mizell, a stick at Lake Okeechobee, has shared his top tips for punching matted grass to help anglers succeed.
One of Mizell’s key tips is to use fish spray as a lubricant. Apart from scenting the bait, the fish spray helps soften and slick up the soft plastic, allowing it to slip through even the thickest matted vegetation. The next tip is to pattern the fish. It’s important to determine their positioning within the mat on any given day to increase the chances of catching more fish. Mizell suggests that most bass can be found either right on the edge or in the heart of the mat.
In addition, it’s essential to keep a close eye on the weather. According to Mizell, cold fronts usually send fish to matted vegetation in search of warmer water, making it a great opportunity to catch them. Conversely, warm extended forecasts may force fish to spread out more, which means anglers will have to try different tactics.
Mizell also recommends finding the right type of mat to punch. A good mat should be hollow, with little to no vegetation under the canopy, and a hard sand bottom. Cane grass is an excellent indicator of a good, hard bottom. Finally, being quiet is key. Mizell advises using a solid and quiet trolling motor to avoid spooking the fish.
With these tips in mind, anglers can make the most of their time fishing in matted vegetation. By using fish spray as a lubricant, patterning the fish, watching the weather, finding the right cover, and being stealthy, they can increase their chances of catching big bass.