Dakota Berdahl, July 2025
July means peak summer bass fishing—long days, warm water, and aggressive fish. But to stay successful when the heat is on, you need to adapt your tactics and gear. Whether you’re targeting largemouths under lily pads or smallmouths along rocky points, this guide will help you land more fish using proven summer strategies and the versatile Douglas Outdoors LRS Series rods.
Bass Fishing With Douglas Outdoors LRS Rod
Why July Bass Fishing is Unique
In July, bass behavior shifts due to rising water temperatures and increased angler pressure. You’ll often find bass deeper during the day and more active at dawn, dusk, or at night. Understanding seasonal changes is key to planning your approach.
Top Tips & Tricks for Bass Fishing in July
1. Fish Early and Late
Use topwater lures like walking baits and poppers around sunrise and sunset. Bass are more aggressive in low-light hours when water temps are cooler.
2. Go Deep Midday
When the sun is high, bass often retreat to deeper water or shade. Use a Carolina rig, deep-diving crankbait, or drop shot to target structure like ledges, submerged humps, or standing timber.
3. Target Shady Cover
Look for docks, laydowns, or thick vegetation that offer shade. Pitching jigs or Texas-rigged plastics into shaded areas can produce big bites.
4. Slow Down in Hot Water
In extreme heat, bass become sluggish. Slow down your presentation—this is where finesse gear shines.
5. Night Fishing for Bigger Bass
Night fishing is underrated in summer. Use black spinnerbaits, jigs, or large worms after dark, especially on calm, clear nights.
LRS Rods Rigged Up And Ready To Fish
Recommended Gear: Douglas LRS Series Rods
The Douglas LRS Series is designed for anglers who demand performance and versatility without the premium price tag. Here’s why they’re perfect for July bass fishing:
LRS Spinning Rods
Ideal for finesse techniques like drop shotting, shaky heads, and Ned rigs. Choose:
- LRS S663F (6’6”, ML, Fast) – Great for precision casting and finesse fishing.
- LRS S704XF (7’0”, M, Extra Fast), LRS S724XF (7’2”, XF, Extra Fast) – Excellent for drop shotting in deeper water.
LRS Casting Rods
Built for power and backbone when flipping jigs, frogging, or cranking deep.
- LRS C745F (7’4”, H, Fast) – A beast for heavy cover and big fish.
- LRS C703MF (7’3”, M, Mod-Fast), LRS C784F (7’8”, F, Fast) – Perfect for deep crankbaits and reaction baits.
Key Features of the LRS Series:
- High-modulus carbon fiber blank
- Fuji reel seats and guides
- Light and responsive feel
- Built for sensitivity, strength, and durability
Bass Fishing On A Boat With The Douglas Outdoors LRS Rods
Bonus July Tactics by Water Type
| Water Type | Best Baits | LRS Rod Match |
| Clear Lakes | Drop Shot, Jerkbait | LRS S704XF LRS S724XF |
| Stained Rivers | Spinnerbait, Craw Jig | LRS C724F LRS C715F |
| Weedy Ponds | Frog, Texas Rig | LRS C745F |
| Deep Reservoirs | Carolina Rig, Deep Crank | LRS C703MF LRS C784F |
Conclusion
July bass fishing can be hot in more ways than one—if you have the right knowledge and tools. By adapting to summer conditions and fishing smarter, you’ll unlock explosive strikes and heavy hooksets all month long. And with the Douglas LRS Series rods in hand, you’ll be equipped for every scenario on the water.
Check out the full LRS lineup here: Douglas LRS Spinning & Casting Rods