Hey guys, I am fairly new to the game here and am having trouble understanding how fishing before, during and after the spawn works. I fish the San Marcos River exclusively because I am in school there and am noticing bass bedding up together. From my limited knowledge I thought that we are in the post-spawn time of year. What factors effect the timing of spawning season? As always thanks for the wealth of information you all provide.

Bass will typical spawn in waves. Some fish may actually be in post spawn patterns while others may be locked on beds. Also, spawn has no set start date and end date. Fish will move up when they feel comfortable. We are on thier schedule.

Many factors some of which include: photo (sunlight) period, water temp, lunar cycle. When talking about locating spawners: water temp, clarity and depth of the lake all factor in. There are no black and white "rules" on spawn...they'll go when ready. Some spawn quicker than others and at different times. Usually on large bodies of water the spawn will start on the upper (shallower) ends first as this is the water that warms the fastest. Once you've done it a while you can actually figure out the fish well enough to fish for spawners for 6-10 weeks during the spring as the water continues to warm down to the deeper spots on the lake with the dam normally being the last area they spawn.

I don't have much experience on a river but I would have to think that if you were to find spawning fish you would find them in areas away from current.

Again, not clear cut rules...just gotta be patient and wait on them