Bass are known for their excellent sight and for using that sight as the basis for predatory activities. So a lot of people overlook the possibility that they can be caught at night. Do this, and you'll miss good fishing opportunities.
Much like people, bass rely on more than one sense. When visualizing a target is not an option, predatory fish rely on two things: location and water displacement.
Let's look at location first. At night, bass put the odds in their favor by pushing baitfish up against objects. Retaining walls are a favorite.
Once you find a retaining wall (the marina probably has one), I recommend using a swim bait with a bullet weight.
I'm particularly fond of the three inch Berkley Swim Shad because they have a vibrating tail. That displaces water and gets the bass' attention. As you can see from the pics above and below, there are many design options.
Once you have your retaining wall, let the lure drop to the bottom at arm's length from the wall. Then lift the lure just off the bottom. Now you will simply want to walk along the retaining wall (which will be a sidewalk if you're in front of the marina), and pull the lure along.
I call this "walking the dog." It will cause the swimbait to swim horizontally and parallel to the wall. Remember, the bass can't see anything. BUT - it can feel something about the same shape and size of a three inch Shad swimming along the retaining wall. In this pitch black world, the bass registers a cornered shad.
The results speak for themselves.
Check out these shots with the lure still in!
One last tip for bass at night. Hit the crappie house at least once. The crappie house lighting tends to attract some fish.
That said, concrete retaining walls where bass can corner baitfish are absolutely PRIME nighttime locations. All fish pictured were released unharmed.
Tight lines!!
