Fishing techniques
Fishing with surface lures
Surface lures such as stickbaits and poppers are particularly effective in summer. These lures mimic the sea bass's natural prey, creating vibrations and splashes that attract the fish's attention. Fishing with surface lures is fun and offers intense emotions that no other approach can match. What could be more beautiful than an attack on the surface by a beautiful sea bass?
Fly-fishing is another effective technique for surface bass fishing. This method requires some skill, but can be very rewarding. The flies used imitate the insects, small fish or crabs that bass like to chase. Fly fishing is often practised in shallow waters, where sea bass come to feed. Added to the sight is the sensation of having the sea bass live during the fight.
Necessary equipment
Rod and reel
For surface bass fishing, a medium-length rod (between 2.40 m and 3 m) with a fast action is ideal. A reel size 2500 to 3000 is generally sufficient.
The most important thing is to have a coherent, well-balanced outfit. Make sure your equipment is well maintained and suited to the fishing conditions.
Lures and flies
Surface lures are essential for attracting bass. It's important to have a variety of lures in your tackle box to adapt to different conditions and fish preferences. Poppers, stickbaits and propeller lures are all effective and offer a variety of sounds and actions. I've already written articles on the choice of these lures. This could be your chance to try out Caperlan's new little Popper or my favorite, the Wizdom 95f, or to bring out Heddon's timeless Spook, still as effective 50 years on.
Tips for success
Choosing the right moment
Sea bass are often most active early in the morning or at the end of the day, when light is less intense. These periods are ideal for surface fishing. Avoid the hottest hours of the day, when fish may be less active. Evening and morning strikes are the best strategic choices for organizing your outings. I must admit that a windless sunrise at the water's edge offers incomparable moments of calm... and productivity.
Observe weather conditions
Weather conditions play a crucial role in bass fishing. Calm, sunny days are often the best for surface fishing. However, a light breeze can also be beneficial, as it creates waves that can attract fish and conceal your silhouette. Otherwise, you'll need to be very discreet.
The unique emotions of surface fishing
The adrenalin of surface attacks
Watching a wave rise behind your lure, following it and seeing the surface explode is an unforgettable experience. Surface fishing is efficient, productive and fun, but above all it offers incomparable emotions. Surface attacks are emotional moments that no angler should miss.
Perfect fishing for beginners
Surface fishing is ideal for beginners, as it allows you to watch your lure evolve and correct its animation in real time. Vary animations by alternating pauses, accelerations and amplitudes to make your lure more attractive. Accelerations are often decisive in transforming a fish's curiosity into aggressiveness.
Summer sea bass fishing on the surface is an exciting activity that requires little equipment when you're on vacation. By using the right techniques, the right equipment and respecting the environment, you can maximize your chances of success. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, don't hesitate to try this method for unforgettable moments at sea.
Remember that patience and perseverance are essential qualities for any angler. Have fun on the water!
