When bass fishing in a stream what types of structure do the Bass prefer?

The answer to your question depends on what type of bass you are fishing for.  I typically fish for Smallmouth Bass in streams.  They prefer a large rock to any other piece of cover.  It is a perfect ambush point for them  First they are often in the middle of the stream where the fast moving deeper water is. Smallmouth Bass prefer fast moving water.  A large rock is a magnet for invertebrates such as crayfish or hellgrammites.  A large rock is also a magnet for schools of minnows in need of a respite from the fast moving current.

Largemouth Bass on the other hand are creatures of weeds and trees.  Since there is generally a lack of weeds in streams they gravitate more toward fallen timber.  Largemouth Bass are far more shoreline oriented than a Smallmouth Bass in streams. They prefer much slower moving water and love fallen trees.

Smallmouth Bass also frequent man made cover.  A dam is a perfect spot to fish for Smallmouth Bass. Show me a large rock below a dam in a river and you have the perfect spot for Smallmouth Bass. 

Largemouth Bass on the other hand prefer the area above a dam.  Weeds often grow in these areas and offer the Largemouth a great ambush point.

When trying to figure out what form of cover a bass will use remember this rule. Largemouth Bass can and will move towards the surface to feed.  Smallmouth bass on the other hand prefer to feed near the bottom of the stream.

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