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Spring Bass Fishing
- Editor - Lost on the Lake
- May 26
- 3 min read
Bass fishing on Table Rock Lake in Missouri during May can be excellent, as the bass are typically in or just coming out of the spawning phase. Here are some targeted tips to help you succeed this time of year:
1. Target the Right Areas
Spawning Flats & Secondary Points: In early May, many bass are still shallow. Look for flat, gravel-bottomed areas and secondary points just off the main lake.
• Post-Spawn Areas: As May progresses, bass begin to move toward deeper water. Focus on channel swings, bluff ends, and deeper brush piles.
• Shad Spawn: Early mornings in May can see a shad spawn. Fish riprap banks, docks, and chunk rock areas.
2. Best Lures & Presentations
Topwater Baits:
• Try walking baits like a Zara Spook, Whopper Plopper, or poppers during low-light periods.
• Soft Plastics: Use wacky-rigged Senkos, Ned rigs, or drop shot setups for finicky post-spawn bass.
• Jigs: A finesse jig or a skirted jig with a craw trailer works well near rocks and submerged timber.
3. Water Conditions Clarity:
• Table Rock is usually clear to stained. Go with more natural-colored baits (green pumpkin, watermelon) in clear water, and switch to black/blue or chartreuse in stained water.
• Temperature: Bass are most active when water is 60–75°F. May falls right in this zone.
• Swimbaits & Spinnerbaits: Great for covering water and mimicking shad. Focus near shoreline cover and points.
4. Gear Suggestions Rod/Reel:
• A 7’ medium-heavy rod with 12–17 lb fluorocarbon works for most bottom-contact baits. Use spinning gear for finesse setups.
• Electronics: Use your fish finder to locate brush piles, transition zones, and baitfish schools.
5. Timing & Weather Best Times:
• Early morning and late evening tend to be most productive, especially during shad spawn activity.
• Cloudy Days: Fish will often roam more, and reaction baits shine.
• Sunny Days: Bass will tuck into shade — target docks, brush, or deeper water.
May is an excellent time for bass fishing on Table Rock Lake, as bass are typically in or just coming out of the spawning phase.
Here are some areas to focus on:
James River Arm:
This area is known for its dense populations of bass, especially near brush piles and submerged wood.
Kings River Arm:
Offers excellent opportunities for both largemouth and smallmouth bass, particularly around rocky cont page 12 points and submerged structures.
Long Creek Arm:
Known for clear water and abundant bass, especially near the creek channels and adjacent flats.
*Beware of floating debris following storms.
For a comprehensive view of fish attractor locations, the Missouri Department of Conservation provides a Table Rock Lake Fish Attractors Map, detailing over 1,000 fish attractor locations, including evergreen and hardwood brush piles, rock piles, and stump fields.
Bait Shops & Gear Rentals
Stocking up on the right gear is essential for a successful fishing trip. Here are some local shops and marinas where you can find bait, tackle, and more: Bait and Tackle Shop at
Long Creek Marina:
Located at Long Creek Marina, this shop offers a specially curated selection of gear for a day on the lake.
Baxter Marina:
Provides live bait, tackle, fishing licenses, and can recommend guides for your fishing adventure.
Kings River Marina:
A full-service marina offering bait, tackle, clothing, and water toys, along with boat rentals and slip rentals.
Extreme Outdoors LLC:
Store selling live bait, fishing tackle, and outdoor clothing, as well as hosting tournaments.
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