The bass bite at Perris is still hot, although fish have moved off the shallow brush after water levels dropped more than a foot in just a few days. Most of the action’s happening a bit deeper, just off structure, in 5–15 feet of water. It’s that weird spring phase where some are locked on beds, others are still window shopping, and a few rogue males are running in packs, smashing almost anything that moves.

Finesse tactics are killing it right now. A slow drag with a drop shot or Neko rig has been the go-to just outside of rocks or brush piles—especially with an SMH or Roboworm. Plenty of quality fish out there, too. Three- to four-pounders have been common, and five- to seven-pounders are being caught daily. Focus less on the obvious shoreline targets and more on that transition zone. Keep casting and moving until you find them.