The Late Bite

At times, a sudden feeding frenzy occurs in the wee hours of 2 or 3 a.m., when most night anglers have departed and even veterans start to doze. Tournament participants report a brief bite lasting less than an hour. Look for this peak in the same areas where bass were feeding several hours after dark.

First Light

The final night bite is from first light until sunrise. If you've fished all night, you may miss sudden savage strikes on topwaters or light taps on worms through exhaustion. Daytime anglers should take advantage of this peak by reaching the lake before dawn. Bass typically have returned to cover edges though some remain in shallow pockets and open sandy flats, feeding during advantageous light levels.

Fishing all night is the fullest experience and often the most productive approach. But it's exhausting, and you'll be worthless the next day, particularly if you worked or fished the previous day. With a half-night strategy, anglers can take advantage of at least two potential peaks. Launch before sundown and be in position at dusk. Fish through the second activity peak, which may occur as early as 9 p.m. in late August. Check your solunar tables and fish through majors and minors.

Some lakes have unique cycles, so if you find a productive night-fishing lake, fish it often. You'll catch more fish each succeeding season and maximize your catch per hour. Moreover, familiarity with cover and structure is critical for night fishing success.

Notes For Success

* Minimize your tackle and keep your boat organized.

* Plan your approach. Get to the lake well before dark and motor to your farthest spot. Then fish spots that bring you progressively closer to the ramp.

* Drive slowly after dark and always wear a life jacket.

* Pick spots out of the wind.

* Don't let moon phase or weather deter your night fishing.

* Fish slowly and pay constant attention to your bait.

* Handle big bass carefully to get a quick photo, and release them at the spot.