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

Simply put, bass like any safe structure that will provide hidden shelter, stream or otherwise. Usually, the most frequented spots are going to be weeds, plants and brush, a bank that extends out over the stream (usually due to an awkward tree right on the edge, as the roots tend to slow down erosion), rocks, holes, stumps and trees partially in the stream itself, logs and large piles of wood, and even just muddy spots of the stream. To get a better idea of what structure you should go for first, you also need to look at what type of bass and during which season you are fishing. Larger bass tend to be more resourceful and better hidden, so they prefer the darkest shade they can safely fit in, and tend to conserve their energy for ambushing. Smaller bass can take or leave the shade, and will tend to try a few spots out, usually very energetically. In a smaller stream, the bass will go straight for anything that breaks the current, and will prefer anything that brings food straight to them. Large rocks in the middle right before a drop-off, high banks, and deep holes work best for them, but again, pay closest attention to the shaded side. Watch near where the stream opens up into a larger body of water and try to find the muddy areas. Those can be great spots, also. Depending on the season, however, bass will adjust these locations to better suit their metabolisms and spawning periods. Besides season, a few other things to keep in mind when looking at structure in a stream should be the surface temperature, the temperature of various depths, whether or not there is a lot of decaying wood in the area that would deplete oxygen, the strength of the current, and even how often the holds are fished by other fishers. What always helps me is to check local bait shops to exchange friendly bass rapport. I usually walk away with some interesting information from a few area veterans on great hiding spots. As always, the best advice is to simply think like a bass.

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