Scientific evidence suggests that bass are not negatively affected by correctly applying tested herbicides, and mind you, the key words here are “correctly applying.” Studies have shown that bass were not affected when herbicides were carefully applied to the water. It has been shown bass did not evacuate as the chemicals were applied or as plants dwindled, and collections of bass in treated and untreated areas were similar. However, as hydrilla decreased, bass moved into deeper water among standing timber. However, in some areas where the lack of hydrilla allowed other vegetation like grasses to grow near the banks, bass stayed shallow and active. My point here is the use of tested herbicides applied correctly can improve bass habitat and improve the capability to reach these bass such as with topwater lures. Not only can vegetation change bass feeding habits, but the type of food source as well. I remember the second year at Cedar Lake the topwater action was unmatched. Then came the shad, and the bass started to follow them rather than chase bluegills and prey on top of the water. Presently, the larger bass are following the shad pods which most of the time are now in open water. To have a great fishery, stable environments are necessary. A sudden take over by vegetation or an animal may and will affect the fishery until some control can be carefully applied, and it will change the way you fish as well.