The lake level continues to drop and water temperatures are as high as I have seen them in several years. On Wednesday morning, July 29th, the water temperature at the Vann’s Tavern boat ramp was 86 degrees shortly after sunrise.
The previous afternoon, before the heat sent me to the confines of my expensively-air-conditioned house, I found water temperatures in the low-90s in the back of south-facing pockets.
The lake level this morning is 1068.23, about 2-feet 9-inches below full pool, and slowly falling.
Visibility in the water column is high, meaning you can see into the water a little farther, but, unfortunately, that means the fish can see you sooner, as well.
The thermocline is approaching the 30-feet range.
Above you’ll find four excellent excuses for not catching fish; use as you wish.
The truth is, however, that the fish are still there, they are there in big numbers and they are relatively active.
They (bass) are experiencing high metabolic rates and need to feed frequently - when you catch one you’ll quickly notice how fat and healthy it looks.
Most of the ones I’m lucky enough to stumble upon are vibrantly colored, indicating that they have NOT recently spent long periods of time in 40 or 50 feet of water. Fish coming from depths like that usually have faded coloration.
Here is a key point: The most important rod and reel set-up you can have on your deck right now is the one that allows you the greatest casting distance.
If you don't have a combo that allows you to throw a Super Spook, full-sized Sammy or 1-ounce jigging spoon at least 50-yards (seriously), then you need to get one.
Keep it at your feet, ready to cast instantly, with the big-bait dangling 6-inches off the end of the rod. Then, when the wolf-packs of fish push bait to the surface, react faster than a hyper-caffeinated mongoose and cast into their midst.
If you hook one, have your fishing partner cast his/her bait at your fish. I guarantee that the one you are battling is not alone; that monster probably has rivals trying to steal the bait from his jaws as you are bringing it to the boat.
A friend once defined this way of fishing as “hours and hours of sheer boredom sandwiched between moments of pure chaos”.
Ya gotta love it!
(NOTE: In my next post I’ll be more detailed in what constitutes good, long-distance casting artillery. Most fishermen already know what I’m referring to, but if you haven’t considered it check back here in a few days.)
