Even topwater fishing can be productive. During the recent South Texas foray, I caught a 2-pound bass on a popping bug right at sunset. The fish really nailed the popper, leaving a meaty splash and taking the lure deep inside the maw. That strike, more than anything, was positive evidence that bass in small waters are active. Of course not.
Most ponds are private but many are within reach of business or social contacts.
The determined pond-hopper with any reasonable amount of incentive and courtesy should be able to muster at least several potential hotspots within an easy drive. And, to reiterate, the time is now to start bearing down on bass ponds. The next two months can be the best of the year for this close and productive fishing. Joe Doggett covers the outdoors for the Chronicle. His column appears on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.