Although it’s snowy around here, it’s warm somewhere and being able to pull big ones out of that warm water is something you can’t pass up. Big fish can often be found hanging out around thick weeds or vegetation. Knowing how to effectively fish in thick weeds without losing your lure is one of the most important lessons an angler can learn.


There are a few reasons why many different types of fish hover in weedy areas during hot months. One of the biggest attractions is the higher amounts of oxygen that are available in weedy areas. Shade is another vital aspect offered by thick weeds because it keeps the water relatively cool during the day. On top of that, any vegetation is a great hiding spot for smaller fish who are trying to avoid being a larger fish's lunch. On the other hand, predatory fish may hang out in the weeds and ambush the smaller fish. There are also plenty of natural food sources wherever you find thick weeds including insects, mollusks, grubs, minnows and frogs.

No matter what species of fish you’re trying to catch, there are a few basic techniques that can make all difference when it comes to getting fish or just getting a tan. No matter what type of lure you are using, it’s not a bad idea to add some type of live bait to the hook. The live bait may move and wiggle enough to attract other fish. More readily, larger fish may be attracted by the scent.


When it comes to fishing the slop as weedy areas are often called, you have to cast your line into the most open area you can find and then reel it in fast enough to keep your bait above the tangled weeds. Believe it or not, big fish will come up, practically to the surface, and take the lure! When they do, set that hook and hold on!

Setting the hook and holding on are only part of the battle. You also have to start reeling in your line almost immediately because fish in the weeds want to dive back down as soon as they bite. You may be able to wrestle them back up but, it’s going to be a lot harder coming through the weeds and the fish will be much heavier because it’s going to be covered in the vegetation where it's hiding.

If you want to fish the weeds, it’s important to have the right equipment. You’re going to need a medium-heavy rod at the very least. You may want to go with a medium or light-heavy. Whatever you choose, make sure the rod has some backbone! You’ll also need some strong line. There’s a lot of crap I can spout off and formulas I can regurgitate, but let’s just cut to the chase and go with a minimum weight of fifteen pounds. Braids are always good in situation such as you’ll find in the slop. Don’t worry about fish seeing you line because the weeds make it difficult to see anyway and by the time they know what’s really happening, it’s usually too late.

You probably have the type of lures for weeds. Around the edges I like crankbaits or spinners. To get in there I like buzzbaits and poppers. Of course, weedless spoons or rigs are always helpful. It’s not a bad idea to practice the weeds with a few cheap lures you won't mind losing until you get fairly comfortable fishing weeds.

You may end up losing a few lures but the rewards are worth it!