Bass are adaptable predators with a varied diet. Dragonflies are a common insect in their habitats. This article explores if bass consume dragonflies and what that means for anglers.
Do Bass Eat Dragonflies?
Yes, bass actively consume dragonflies. These fish are opportunistic feeders, eating whatever is readily available and offers nutritional benefit. Dragonflies become part of a bass’s diet in both their immature, aquatic nymph stage and their winged, adult stage.
Dragonfly nymphs, which live underwater, are a consistent food source. As these nymphs mature and prepare to emerge, they become particularly vulnerable. Adult dragonflies that fall onto the water’s surface or fly low enough to be ambushed also present an easy meal. Both smallmouth and largemouth bass are known to target these insects.
Why and When Bass Eat Dragonflies
Bass consume dragonflies due to their widespread availability and nutritional content. Dragonfly nymphs are common in bass environments, often found in dense aquatic vegetation. These nymphs provide protein and energy. Adult dragonflies, with their relatively large size, also offer a substantial meal.
Bass display opportunistic feeding behaviors, readily striking at easy-to-capture prey. When adult dragonflies fly low over the water, especially during egg-laying, or when nymphs emerge, they become accessible targets. This activity is most pronounced during warmer months, from late spring through early fall, on sunny days when dragonflies are most active. Bass are frequently observed leaping from the water to snatch airborne dragonflies.
Implications for Anglers
Understanding that bass eat dragonflies offers practical insights for anglers. Selecting lures that imitate these insects can be highly effective. Topwater lures like poppers or foam imitations mimic adult dragonflies resting or struggling on the surface. For subsurface presentations, patterns resembling dragonfly nymphs, such as woolly buggers, attract bass targeting underwater prey. Matching the color and size of local dragonflies can increase success.
Anglers should focus on fishing in areas where dragonflies are prevalent. This includes locations with lily pads, reeds, and other emergent vegetation, which serve as prime habitats for dragonfly reproduction and nymph development. Observing the water for signs of dragonfly activity, such as adults flying low or bass jumping, indicates a potential feeding opportunity. Targeting these active periods and locations with appropriate imitations can significantly improve an angler’s chances of success.