How to Catch Largemouth Bass Using Live Leeches

Fishing for bass can be a tricky business. A plethora of baits can be used, but live leeches are by far the most effective I have ever seen. Leeches inhabit freshwater lakes and streams all over the United States. This makes them a natural live bait for any freshwater fishing hole.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A fishing pole.
• A hook. Preferably a texas hook.
• A supply of live leeches.
• A moderate amount of patience.
• Time on your hands.

1. 
    
   Yummy! says Billy Bass

   Leeches are available plentifully across the USA. Every freshwater lake, stream or pond holds leeches, so they are a natural food for all types of fishes including the elusive largemouth bass. They can be purchased at your local bait shop for less than $3 a dozen and come in a range of sizes from small to extra large. Bigger leeches mean bigger fish! Well usually anyway!

2. 
    
   Barrel swivel

   Take your fishing pole and tie on a barrel swivel. I use an improved clinch knot, but you can use your own favorite. Whatever works for you.

3. 
    
   Basic fishing line

   On the other end of the swivel, you will tie a length of line (approximately 2 to 3 feet or so) using your favorite knot.
   I typically use 8 pound test on the reel and tie on a heavier test to the swivel.

4. 
    
   Tie the hook directly to the line.

   Now on the far end of the line away from the swivel, tie on that hook. Use the knot you like to use and you are ready to go!

5. 
    
   That same leech. He's still waiting to hook up with you!

   Now be brave and grab one of those juicy leeches you brought along. They are slimy but they won't hurt you. Just grab one and hold it firmly, but not TOO firmly.

6. 
    
   See how he wriggles through the water!

   Insert the hook through the wider end of the leech's body. That is the "head" of the leech. The sucker pad is on that end. This is so the leech will swim naturally and attract the fish.

7. 
    
   Cast the line out as far as you can.

   Now cast your line out as far as you can. The idea is to keep the leech moving. A slow retrieve works most of the time and a little jigging of the rod tip won't hurt either. You might want to try hard rod jerks, soft rod jerks or even stop altogether and then reel quickly for a couple of turns or the reel handle.

8. While you are retrieving the line, keep one finger on the line near the reel. The best way I have found is to position the line between your index finger and your middle finger. This way, you can feel the tugs when the fish takes your bait.

9. When you feel a sharp tug, Jerk the rod back and set the hook. If your timing is right, you will be landing your first leech eating largemouth bass in about 2 minutes!

Tips & Warnings

• NEVER try to lift the fish with the line. It will snap every time!
• NEVER use horse leeches. Fish do not like them for some reason.
• ALWAYS get your fishing license and contribute to your state's conservation programs.