Strike King pro James Niggemeyer provides insight on the most important factors to pay attention to when fishing in Zone 2 in the month of August.

“In August, the water temperature will typically be at its highest point of the year. Depending upon the water body type, location, elevation, current, and other factors, temperature can vary from 80's to low 90's,” shares Niggemeyer.

Oxygen levels are a large factor when targeting bass in August, Niggemeyer notes. “Bass will inhabit shallow areas less than five feet where there is increased oxygen due to wind/wave action, vegetation, or slightly cooler water temperatures due to current, springs, or creek run off,” he states.

“Cover types and water depths that I would look to hold bass in the month of August include large tributary creeks with vegetation such as lily pads, milfoil, hydrilla, laydown logs, and docks with brush in the shallows,” says Niggemeyer.

When headed offshore, Niggemeyer encourages anglers to notice the change in location of bass during August. “Offshore bass will begin to suspend more during August being less dependent on structure and more on following schools of baitfish in areas of open water,” Niggemeyer concludes.

BAIT 1: Strike King Sexy Dawg

If the water is clear, Niggemeyer prefers the Sexy Dawg in Clear Sexy Shad. In stained water, he switches to Oyster.

BAIT 2: Strike King 3/8 oz Tour Grade Spinnerbait with 4” Swim-N-Shiner trailer

Niggemeyer’s choice for clear water is the Green Glimmer, while he opts for White Silver if the water is stained. He likes to add a 4" Swim-N-Shiner trailer. 

BAIT 3: Strike King 1/2 oz Red Eyed Shad

He opts for the Red Eyed Chrome Sexy Shad in clear water, and switches to a Sexy Shad if the water is stained.

BAIT 4: Strike King ½ oz Thunder Cricket Vibrating Jig with Blade Minnow trailer

If the water is clear, he will throw a Thunder Cricket in Blue Gizzard with a Blade Minnow trailer, while more stained water calls for a White. In muddy water, Niggemeyer will use the Chartreuse White.

BAIT 5: Strike King 4” Rage Bug

He opts for the Rage Bug Candy Craw in clear water. If the water is stained, he will throw Bama Bug, while he will switch to Okeechobee Craw if the water is muddy.