You don't need a boat to get stuck into a whole heap of freshwater fishing action. Land-based bass fishing is one of the best ways to explore a river, creek or impoundment while chasing one of Australia's most iconic freshwater fish. From smaller creeks to larger coastal rivers, there are plenty of places to target bass on foot. But when you're covering a few kilometres, scrambling along banks and pushing through scrub, ensuring you pack the right gear can make all the difference.
The trick is keeping things light without leaving the important stuff behind. A compact tackle selection, simple spin outfit and a few safety essentials are usually all you need for an afternoon chasing Aussie bass from the bank. It's also a similar approach that can work for other freshwater target species, including golden perch and Murray cod.
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Start With the Safety Essentials
It might be a fishing trip, but safety should come before the tackle. A basic first aid kit is always worth carrying, and if you're walking through areas where snakes may be encountered, adding a snake bite bandage or dedicated snake bite kit is a smart inclusion.
Water is another non-negotiable. How much you carry will depend on how far you plan to walk, the weather and how long you expect to be out, but it's always better to have more than you think you'll need.
A few other essentials worth packing include:
Even if you're planning to be back well before dark, a head torch can be extremely handy if the fishing fires up late or the walk back takes longer than expected. Check the batteries before leaving home rather than finding out they're flat when you need them.
Tell Someone Where You're Going
Land-based bass fishing can take you into some fairly quiet stretches of country, so make sure somebody knows where you're heading and roughly when you expect to return.
Dropping a pin where you've parked the car can also save plenty of headaches later, particularly when you've spent a few hours following a winding riverbank.
If phone reception is limited where you're heading, factor that into your preparation as well.
Check Access Before You Fish
A great-looking stretch of river doesn't automatically mean you're allowed to fish it. Always check access before heading onto a property and make sure you aren't crossing private land without permission. If access does run through private property, speak with the landowner first.
Being respectful of gates, fences, livestock and other people's property helps keep access available for everyone.
Dress for the Walk
You might spend plenty of time casting, but land-based bass fishing can involve just as much walking, climbing and pushing through vegetation.
Long pants are a great option for protecting your legs from sun, scratches and the odd encounter with something you'd rather not step on. Pair them with a long-sleeve shirt, hat and sunnies for extra sun protection.
Closed-in footwear is also important. Depending on the country you're fishing, that could mean sturdy walking shoes or purpose-built water shoes if you expect to spend time wading.
Whatever you choose, make sure they provide enough grip and protection for slippery rocks, muddy banks and uneven ground.
Keep Your Tackle Selection Small
When you're carrying everything on your back, there's no need to bring the entire tackle box.
A couple of small tackle trays can hold more than enough options for most bass missions. One can carry jig heads and terminal tackle, while another can hold a selection of hard bodies and surface lures – the aim is to carry enough variety to adapt without weighing yourself down.
A handy lure selection could include:
Bass can change their preferences throughout the day, so having a wide range of different presentations gives you room to experiment. There's no need to carry dozens of each lure, though. A handful of proven options in different styles is normally plenty.
For lure fishing, having a few presentations that cover different depths can be particularly handy when trying to tempt wary fish or work out what they're responding to on the day.
Don't Forget the Small Stuff
A few compact tools can make life much easier on the bank. A pair of fishing pliers is useful for removing hooks and handling fish, while scissors or line cutters make quick work of braid and leader.
Lure scent can also be worth throwing in the bag, particularly when fishing soft plastics or when the bite is slow. These little items barely take up any room but can quickly become some of the most-used gear in your pack.
Keep Your Bass Combo Light and Simple
One of the best parts about chasing bass from the bank is that you don't need a complicated setup. A light spin combo is ideal for casting smaller lures accurately, making long casts when needed and remaining comfortable to carry for kilometres.
A simple setup could look something like:
This gives you a versatile outfit for throwing everything from small plastics and hard bodies through to surface lures.
Leader size can always be adjusted to suit the country you're fishing. Around heavier timber, rocks or rough structure, stepping up slightly can provide some extra abrasion resistance and give you a little more insurance when a fish heads for cover.
Pack Light and Stay Mobile
Land-based bass fishing often means covering plenty of ground, so every bit of weight in your pack counts. Stick to the gear you know you'll use and avoid loading up on "just in case" tackle that'll spend the whole session buried at the bottom of your bag.
A lightweight backpack, a couple of tackle trays, one rod and the essentials are normally enough to keep things simple and comfortable for a few hours on foot.
Ready to Hit the Bank?
You don't need a boatload of gear to enjoy a cracking session chasing Australian bass. Find a legal stretch of river, creek or impoundment, pick a few likely-looking spots and start working your way along the bank.
Take your time, fish the structure properly and keep exploring. Sometimes the next bend, shaded pocket or snag is all it takes to turn a quiet session into a cracker.
Land-Based Bass Fishing FAQs
What is the best time of day for land-based bass fishing?
Early morning and late afternoon are often productive, especially when bass move into shallower water to feed. Low-light periods can also be ideal for surface fishing.
Where should I look for bass when fishing from the bank?
Focus on structure such as timber, rock walls, shaded edges, undercut banks, weed beds and deeper pools where bass can sit close to cover.
What is the best lure for land-based Australian bass fishing?
There is no single best lure, but small hard bodies, soft plastics, vibes and surface lures are all popular choices depending on water depth, structure and fish activity.
Can you catch Australian bass from small creeks and rivers?
Yes. Small creeks and rivers can hold excellent bass, particularly where there is good structure, deeper water and access to shaded or slower-moving sections.
Do I need a fishing licence to catch Australian bass?
Fishing licence requirements vary by state and location, so always check the current local regulations before heading out. Some stocked impoundments may also require additional permits.
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BCFing Experts
The BCFing Experts have done more than their fair share of boating, camping, fishing, hiking, four-wheel driving and much much more! Whether you're tackling tough tracks in Tassie or chasing big barra up North, the BCFing Experts have the know-how to make your next outdoor adventure a pearler
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