Bass fishing in Australia is addictive, rewarding, and sometimes… frustrating. Whether you’re just starting out or chasing your PB in wild waters, simple mistakes can mean the difference between an epic session and a fishless one.
In this guide, we break down the most common bass fishing mistakes Aussie anglers make — and exactly how to avoid them.
❌ 1. Fishing the Wrong Times of Day
Many anglers hit the water in the middle of the day — just when bass activity is at its lowest.
âś… Do this instead:
•Fish early morning (5–8 AM) or late afternoon (5–8 PM)
•In colder months, aim for midday warmth
•Overcast = extended bite windows
❌ 2. Ignoring Structure and Cover
Bass love snags, submerged timber, weed beds, and rocky banks. If you’re casting into open, featureless water — you’re missing out.
âś… Do this instead:
•Target shadow lines, weed edges, logs, bridge pylons
•Make multiple casts at different angles around structure
•Use spinnerbaits, plastics, or vibes to probe cover
❌ 3. Using the Wrong Rod & Line
Too heavy? You’ll miss finesse bites. Too light? You’ll lose fish in structure.
And don’t get us started on thick mono…
âś… Do this instead:
•Use 2000–2500 size reels
•8–12 lb braid + 10–14 lb fluoro leader
•Rod: Favorite U1 or X1 in ML or M power
❌ 4. Using the Same Lure All Day
Even the best bass lures don’t work in every condition. If you’re stubbornly throwing the same thing from sunrise to sunset — your results will suffer.
âś… Do this instead:
•Early morning: topwater, cranks
•Midday: soft plastics, vibes
•Low light: spinnerbaits, surface lures
•Adapt colour to water clarity
❌ 5. Retrieving Too Fast or Too Slow
Wrong retrieve speed can turn off the bite instantly — especially in colder months.
âś… Do this instead:
•In warm water: aggressive twitches, fast cranks
•In cold water: slow roll, long pauses
•Watch your line — many bites are subtle!
❌ 6. Fishing Only One Spot
Bass are mobile. If they’re not biting, don’t waste two hours flogging the same log.
âś… Do this instead:
•Fan-cast an area for 15–20 minutes
•If no hits, move to a new section
•Cover water efficiently — especially from shore or kayak
❌ 7. Forgetting to Match Lure & Rod
Using a light rod for heavy lures (or vice versa) ruins presentation and hooksets.
âś… Do this instead:
Lure Type Recommended Rod
Soft plastics U1 ML or X1 ML
Spinnerbaits X1 M or U1 M
Cranks/Vibes X1 M or M+
Topwater U1 ML or X1 Fast tip
❌ 8. Skipping the Leader
Bass live in structure — sharp rocks, timber, and weed. Going braid straight to lure is a recipe for bust-offs.
âś… Do this instead:
•Always use fluorocarbon leader (10–14 lb)
•Tie with FG knot or improved Albright
•Check your leader often for nicks or frays
❓ FAQ – Avoiding Bass Fishing Mistakes
Q: Why am I seeing bass but not catching them?
→ Could be lure speed, line visibility, or pressure. Try downsizing and slowing down.
Q: How long should I stay in one spot?
→ If no bites after 20 minutes and fan-casting — move on.
Q: Do I need to change gear for creeks vs dams?
→ Not always — but shorter rods for tight creeks, longer for big open water.
đź”— Related Articles
•Best Times to Fish for Bass
•Top Bass Fishing Spots in Australia
🛍️ Final Thoughts
Avoiding mistakes is often more important than mastering advanced tactics.
By fixing these common issues, you’ll instantly boost your success — whether you’re fishing from the bank, kayak, or boat.
🎣 Gear up smart with rods designed for Aussie bass conditions.
🛒 Shop Bass Fishing Rods →
Catch smarter. Catch more. Fish Favorite.