Strike King and Lew’s Pro Andy Montgomery suggests some of the same tactics for June that he shared in May for Zone 3 – keeping a focus deep water versus shallow forage.

“For deep water, I’m locating bass that are preying on shad. The key difference in targeting deep fish in June versus May is the techniques and cadence of the lures I choose,” says Montgomery. It is time to opt for more slow-moving presentations, which means leaving the crankbaits and spoons behind. “I’m switching to the Carolina rig and jigs to target these more conditioned fish,” shares Montgomery.

Another key focus of June – topwater. Montgomery notes, “Anytime you are targeting deep fish, there is a chance that they’ll school up closer to the surface at some point during the day. I’ll keep a Sexy Dawg tied on just for that possibility.”

In June, you can also expect to find pockets of spawning bluegill offering great opportunities to target shallow fish. “Put on some sunscreen, bring a good pair of polarized sunglasses and look for the ‘honeycomb-shaped’ bluegill beds. With the bluegill more locked into the full swing of the spawn, I tend to opt for shallower topwater presentations,” advises Montgomery. His favorite bait to target spawning bluegill – Skip N’ Buzz and KVD Popping Perch.

BAIT 1: Carolina Rig with a Strike King Game Hawg

If the water is clear or stained, Montgomery prefers the Green Pumpkin Game Hawg. For muddy water, he will favor a Black N Blue.

Montgomery fishes on a Team Lew's Signature Series Mark Rose Carolina Rig 7’5” rod, pairing it with a Lew's HyperMag 8.3:1 baitcast reel.

He fishes the Carolina Rig on 17 lb fluorocarbon line with a 15 lb leader.

BAIT 2: Strike King Bull Worm on a Tour Grade Mag Jig Head

Montgomery’s choice for clear and stained water is the Green Pumpkin Bull Worm, while he opts for Black if the water is muddy.

He switches to a Team Lew's Signature Series Mark Rose Carolina Rig 7’5” and pairs it with a Lew's HyperMag 8.3:1 baitcast reel. 

Montgomery spools his combo with 17 lb fluorocarbon line.

BAIT 3: Strike King Sexy Dawg

This topwater lure is Montgomery’s top choices when fish are chasing prey near points, ledges, and drops. 

He opts for the Blue Gizzard in clear water, and switches to a Sexy Blue Back Herring if the water is stained.

Montgomery throws the Sexy Dawg on a Team Lew's Signature Series KVD Topwater 7-foot rod and a Lew's BB1 Pro 7.5:1 baitcast reel. 

He spools the combo with 30 lb braid.

BAIT 4: Strike King Skip'N Buzz with a Rage Swimmer trailer 

Montgomery throws the Skip'N Buzz in shaded areas with shallow water.

If the water is clear or stained, he will throw a Green Pumpkin, while muddy water calls for a Black N Blue. 

He fishes on a Team Lew's Signature Series Andy Montgomery Bladed Jig/Thunder Cricket 7’3” rod, paired with a Lew's Pro SP baitcast reel. 

Montgomery spools his combo with 20 lb fluorocarbon line.

BAIT 5: Strike King KVD Popping Perch

He opts for Green Pumpkin Gill Popping Perch in clear water.  If the water is stained or muddy, he will throw the Black.

Montgomery fishes the KVD Popping Perch on a Team Lew's Signature Series Andy Montgomery Skipping 6’9” rod, paired with a Lew's Pro SP baitcast reel.

He spools this with 30 lb braided line.