September Fishing Report: The Bass Bite Is On

September in South Florida means one thing for bass anglers: the dog days are winding down, and the largemouth are feeding like they know it. Water temps are finally starting to slide off their summer peaks, and the bite around Homestead's canals, lakes, and backcountry has been consistently strong — especially early and late.

Where the Fish Are Holding

Right now we're finding the majority of our fish in two places: tight to lily pad edges and hydrilla lines in the morning, then sliding out to the deeper canal ledges and submerged vegetation once the sun gets high. The classic summer pattern is still in play, but the fish are noticeably more willing to chase than they were in August.

• First light: Topwater walking baits and frogs over the pads — the blowups have been violent.
• Mid-day: Slow down. Worms and creature baits pitched into shade pockets and deeper grass.
• Evening: The last-hour bite has been the best window of the day. Big fish are moving shallow again.

What's Working

It's been a gold-and-green month on the boat. Natural shad and bluegill patterns are producing when the water's clear, and darker junebug and black-and-blue baits are getting crushed in the stained canal water. A slow-rolled swimbait along the grass lines has accounted for several of our better fish this month — including a handful of true South Florida giants.

Looking Ahead

As we move toward October, expect the bite to keep improving. The first weak cold fronts of the season will group fish up and turn on the shallow feed. If you've been waiting for the right time to book a trip, this is it — the next six to eight weeks are some of the best bass fishing of the year down here.

Everything's included on our trips: rods, reels, tackle, and licenses. You just show up ready to geaux.