Quick facts
Scientific name: Micropterus salmoides
Best for: Trophy largemouth, shallow cover, grass, docks, wood
Typical size: Common around 14 to 20 inches, but Texas also produces true trophies.
Habitat and pattern
Habitat: Vegetation, wood, docks, riprap, points, creek arms, and ambush cover in lakes and reservoirs.
Seasonal pattern: Spring pushes fish shallow to spawn. Summer patterns move between cover and offshore structure. Fall centers around bait movement.
Best lures and baits
| Type | Brand | Model | How to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft plastic stickbait | Gary Yamamoto | Senko 5 in | Weightless Texas or wacky rig, let it fall and pause |
| Squarebill crankbait | Strike King | KVD 1.5 | Deflect off rock, wood, and shallow cover |
| Bladed jig | Z-Man | ChatterBait JackHammer | Slow-roll over grass edges and pop free |
| Frog | BOOYAH | Pad Crasher | Mats, pads, shoreline grass in warm months |
Range map
Regulations reminder
Always verify statewide rules and waterbody exceptions before your trip.