Why Are Bass So Popular?

For anglers, fishing is a form of art. It’s a contemplative activity that requires skill, precision, and patience. And when it comes to the most popular catches, one stands out: bass. 

Whether you’re a pro angler or a casual enthusiast, you’ve probably wondered why bass fishing is so loved. What’s so special about these fish?

Interestingly, bass tends to top the list of most popular catches for a few reasons.

We’ve reached out to our subscribers to ask them what they love about bass fishing, and here are the top responses.

The thrill of the chase.

Easily at the top of the list is the fight these fish bring on.  

Bass are notoriously elusive. They’re smart and fast, making them a challenging catch requiring much skill. You’re in for a wild ride when you finally hook a bass. 

These fish put up a fight, making every catch a thrilling experience. The chase is half the fun, whether using artificial lures or live bait.

Pound for pound, when comparing them to other large game fish like marlins or sturgeon, their fight is unmatched, making them a favorite among anglers.

Of course, there are comparable species – if you’ve ever caught a monster walleye then you know what we mean – but for most of the country they top the charts for a fight.

To put it in perspective, a 5lb bass will outfight a 5lb catfish any day of the week.

The variety of techniques.

From topwater popper fishing to finesse jigging, there’s no one way to catch a bass.

There are always different methods and techniques, making bass fishing a versatile activity.

This fish can be caught by using many methods. You can target them with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, frogs, or even just plastic worms. 

If you really want to get creative, you can even make your own.

The variety of techniques keeps the sport fresh and exciting even after years of anglers fishing.

Our favorite is topwater bass fishing, which combines the thrill of the chase with heart-pounding surface strikes. It’s a unique and adrenaline-inducing way to target bass.

The delicious taste.

Let’s not forget the reason that many people go fishing: the taste of the fresh catch.

We were actually surprised by this finding. Sure, bass are delicious, but plenty of other fish top the charts. Nonetheless, the taste made the list.

Whether you’re grilling, frying, broiling, or baking, a fresh bass is a delicious treat. 

Because they swim in clear and uncontaminated water, they don’t have the “fishy” taste that many people dislike in seafood. 

It’s considered a delicacy in many countries and a healthy part of a balanced diet.

They’re abundant and widespread.

Bass are not only found in abundance, but they also inhabit a wide range of habitats. This makes them easily accessible to anglers across the world. 

As mentioned, bass can be found in freshwater lakes, streams, and even brackish water.

Plus, many different species of bass have adapted to different environments, making them accessible to anglers in both warm and cold climates.

We will say, however, that we’ve caught our larger bass in the colder climates. That’s not to say there aren’t large bass in Texas lakes or Florida lakes, but there’s something special in the water in the northern states.

The beauty of the water.

Bass are found in a multitude of bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and streams. And when fishing for bass, you get to experience the beauty of those waters. 

The early morning mist rising from the water, the reflection of the sunset in the waves, the sound of the water lapping against the boat – all these elements create a sensory experience that’s hard to forget.

Doing some fishing in the morning for bass is one of the most beautiful and tranquil experiences you can have. And for those that haven’t tried ice fishing, the serenity is unmatched.

The sense of community.

Despite what you might think, bass fishing isn’t a solitary sport. 

Many anglers love to share their experiences with others. Whether you’re joining a local fishing club, scouring posts on Reddit or FishBrain, or heading out with a group of friends, bass fishing is a social activity. 

Many anglers also use social media platforms to share their catches, tips, and techniques with others. If you’ve ever scrolled through the various Facebook groups relating to bass fishing, then you know exactly what we’re talking about.

This sense of community creates a bond between anglers, and that connection adds to the appeal of bass fishing.

What’s not to love about bass fishing?

So, why are bass so popular? It’s a combination of many things.

The thrill of the chase, the variety of techniques, the beauty of the water, the sense of community, and the taste of the catch. 

Bass fishing is a sport that offers so much more than just catching fish. It tests your skills, your patience, and your ability to adapt to changing conditions. But it also connects you with nature, other anglers, and the very essence of the water. 

There’s lots to love about this popular sport, and if you haven’t tried it yet, we highly recommend giving it a go. Who knows, maybe you’ll become just as hooked on bass fishing as the fish themselves.