No boat? No problem.
Some of the best Australian bass fishing happens right from the bank — if you know where to look and how to approach it.
This guide is for anglers who want to catch bass from shore in rivers, creeks, and impoundments across Australia. We’ll cover everything from the best techniques and locations to the right rods, lures, and times to fish.
🧭 Why Shore-Based Bass Fishing Works
Land-based fishing for bass can be just as productive as fishing from a boat — sometimes even better:
✅ Less gear and logistics
✅ Access to tight, unfished areas
✅ Easier for early morning or quick trips
✅ Ideal for light tackle and stealthy approaches
💡 The key is understanding how bass relate to the bank and nearby structure — then adapting your gear and lures.
📍 Where to Fish for Bass from the Bank
Location Type Why It Works Example
Creek edges Shaded pools, overhanging branches Nepean tributaries
Dams with bank access Gentle slopes, rocky points, submerged weed lines Maroon Dam, Glenmaggie
River bends Natural current breaks and ambush points Shoalhaven River
Suburban parklands Stocked creeks and storm drains (bass can adapt!) Urban stretches in QLD/NSW
🔎 Look for:
•Fallen timber or snags
•Deep pools and eddies
•Shadow lines and overhanging cover
•Submerged weed along shallow edges
🎯 Best Techniques for Shore-Based Bass
1. Cast Parallel to the Bank
– Bass cruise along edges. Long parallel casts cover more water.
– Use crankbaits, spinnerbaits or plastics.
2. Target Structure
– Cast near logs, pylons, and drop-offs.
– Use weedless rigs in snaggy areas.
3. Fan-Cast Wide Zones
– Work from left to right in a fan pattern.
– Use soft plastics or topwater lures at dawn/dusk.
🎣 Best Lures for Shore Bass Fishing
Lure Type Best Time Presentation
Soft plastics All year Hop or slow roll along bottom
Crankbaits Autumn/Winter Cast & retrieve parallel to structure
Topwater lures Spring/Summer Dawn/dusk twitch retrieves
Spinnerbaits Cloudy water Burn near cover, slow roll through
Vibes & blades Deeper edges Yo-yo retrieve with pauses
🛠️ Best Rod & Reel Setup for Bank Bass
🔹 Favorite U1 7’0” ML or M
– Lightweight, great for walking sessions
– Versatile for plastics, topwater, cranks
🔹 Favorite X1 7’0” M or 7’2” M
– For longer casts or heavier lures
– Great for spinnerbaits and vibes
Reel size: 2000–2500
Line: 8–12 lb braid + 10–14 lb fluorocarbon leader
⏰ Best Time of Day for Bank Fishing
Time Effectiveness Notes
Dawn ✅ Best for topwater Low light, calm water
Morning ✅ Good for soft plastics Bass cruise edges
Midday ⚠️ Slow unless overcast Go deep with vibes
Dusk ✅ Excellent for surface Great time for cranks & buzzbaits
❌ Common Mistakes from Shore
•❌ Standing too close to the edge — spooks fish
•❌ Not adjusting casting angles — limits coverage
•❌ Using loud, splashy retrieves in still water
•❌ Fishing mid-day without depth or cover
•❌ Forgetting to bring long pliers for dehooking!
❓ FAQ – Bass Fishing from Shore
Q: Can I catch big bass without a boat?
✅ Absolutely. Many 40+ cm bass come from the bank.
Q: Do I need waders or just walk the edge?
→ Waders help in weedy or muddy dams, but aren’t essential.
Q: How far can I cast?
→ With a well-balanced X1 or U1 rod, you can reach 25–35 metres easily.
Q: What about foot traffic and noise?
→ Try to stay low and quiet. Fish spook fast in clear water.
🔗 Related Articles
🛍️ Final Thoughts
Fishing for bass from shore is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to connect with this iconic Aussie species.
With the right approach, the right gear, and a bit of stealth — you’ll be surprised how effective land-based fishing can be.
🛒 Shop Bank-Friendly Rods for Bass →
No boat? No worries. Fish Favorite.