Fall is a special time for anglers. While many of us are thinking about football or hunting, the cooler months also provide an excellent opportunity to be on the water chasing big bass. The fall transition can vary depending on where you live, but these five baits are proven performers as temperatures begin to drop. Maximize your time on the water this fall with our top 5 fall bass baits.

Crankbaits

Crankbaits are essential during fall, with various styles excelling as bass move shallow and feed more aggressively. A square-bill crankbait is perfect for covering water and imitating baitfish. Cast around cover such as wood, brush, and rock, and let the crankbait deflect off these structures to trigger strikes. Shad, sunfish, and minnow patterns work particularly well as baitfish start to group up in shallow water.

In addition to shallow divers, a lipless crankbait is a killer option, especially in late fall. Its tight wobbling action performs well in cool water, and it often gets bites when wider-action cranks won't. On windy days, fishing lipless crankbaits over shallow grass beds is a reliable tactic.

Jigs

Jigs are a year-round bass-catching machine, but they shine even more during the fall. Whether you’re working through grass, around cover, or off structure, a versatile jig can handle it all. A hybrid jig offers the flexibility to drag, hop, or swim it around key areas where big bass are likely to hang out. This all-around approach makes jigs a must-have bait for landing that fall trophy bass.

 

Spinnerbaits are another classic fall choice due to their adaptability across different water types and depths. Whether you’re fishing willow or Colorado blades, spinnerbaits can be worked through a variety of conditions. For a fresh take, consider the blade burner spinnerbaits—a hit with both anglers and fish. During fall, banging spinnerbaits off docks, wood, and other cover can trigger aggressive strikes. In open water, adding some twitches or speed changes to your retrieve can make all the difference.
 

Jerkbaits

No cold-water bass fishing list would be complete without jerkbaits. As water temps drop and leaves start to turn, jerkbaits really come into their own. The classic “twitch, twitch, pause” retrieve mimics the dying baitfish that bass love to ambush this time of year. If you’re not getting hits, don’t be afraid to experiment with retrieval speed or add longer pauses. In the fall, hard ripping your jerkbait can force a reaction strike, especially when fish are indecisive.

Finesse Worms

A finesse worm is a must-have for any angler, especially during fall when the bite can be tough. Their versatility makes them a reliable fallback. Whether rigged wacky-style, Texas-rigged, or on a drop shot, finesse worms let you fish slowly and thoroughly, which is key when bass are less aggressive. If the bite is tough, these worms can help you coax those finicky bass into striking. Check out the worms from GrandeBass are a great option. Don't sleep on these.

These five baits will keep you on top of the action as bass transition into their fall feeding patterns. So grab your gear, head to the water, and enjoy the thrill of fall bass fishing!