Keith Lusher 08.21.24
When it comes to bass fishing, the “Mighty Mississippi” isn’t the first place that comes to mind for most anglers. The river’s challenging currents and muddy waters can test even the most seasoned fishermen. However, the Mississippi River is exactly where Nick Liebel of Belle Chasse, LA, honed his bass fishing skills. “I’ve been fishing this river for over 30 years,” he said. Liebel often fishes in Venice, LA, a place locals refer to as “the end of the world” because it’s located at the end of Highway 23, which stretches 74 miles down the southern tip of the state.
Liebel says August is his favorite time to fish the river because of its low levels. “Anytime the river drops below four feet, it’s going to produce fish because the water is cleaner,” he explained. Not only is the water clearer, but it also prevents the bass from moving deep into the roseau cane. These canes resemble sugar cane but are thinner. “When the river is high, the water floods into the cane and it gets tough to fish. But when the water drops in August, it’s game on!” he said. Liebel recommends fishing the passes this month.
“I like to fish areas like Tauphine Pass, the back of Mary Bowers, Main Pass, and Delta Duck,” Liebel said. “Sometimes I see boats running up and down the river. I’ll camp out and fish the drains off Main Pass and just destroy the bass.”
When fishing in August, Liebel suggests targeting the back half of a falling tide. This allows the water to drain out of the cane, pushing the fish to the edge. “That’s when the fishing gets stupid,” he said.
Fishing in Venice is more about quantity than quality. Liebel cautions not to expect fish over 4 pounds but notes that daily catches can reach up to 50 fish. “There have been trips where I’ve caught 60 bass in 5 hours fishing the back half of a falling tide,” he said.
When bass fishing in Venice, Liebel uses a 7-foot G. Loomis rod paired with 30-pound Super Slick Braid made by PowerPro. At the end of the braid, he ties on a 3-foot fluoro leader. He says he’s noticed a substantial difference since he started using a leader instead of tying the braid directly to his lure. “I’ve fished with guys using braid only and I’ve caught five fish to their one,” he said.
As for reels, Liebel’s go-to baitcasters are the Shimano Chronarch and Daiwa Coastal. “I have about five or six of each,” he said.
In August, Liebel’s confidence lure is a Magic Speed Craw in the watermelon red color. He uses an Owner hook with a 3/16-ounce bullet weight. “I like the 3/16 because it allows me to feel the bottom when I’m bumping it,” he said.
While August is a prime month for bass fishing in Venice, Liebel believes the bite will remain strong all the way through November, until the hard cold fronts start passing through.
