Thursday 4/16/26

Since last report 3/26 the lake surface temps have jumped 12 -15 degrees….

Above 994 hovers around 60.  Mid lake to Seven points  55- 57.  Lower end also mid 50’s.

 Now is when big changes happen.  Last pre-spawn feed.  Most species will move into spawn in about 3 weeks.  

 Stripers – That means the bite will temporarily ramp up to suit lots of styles of fishing from live bait fishing or evening and after dark casting artificials lake wide…as the dogwoods started to bloom and the night time frogs peep its game on…enjoy it now because this time next month mature fish begin to disappear as they have only one thing in mind….the immature smaller Stripers will continue as usual with activity….foccus on warmest water in water section of lake you want to target.  Stay in those transition areas from river channel to shallow flats, points etc…as a rule of thumb, follow the water temps down the lake not the fish…Lower end water is the last to warm….just stay in that 55 – 60 degree window moving down the lake for best activity….remember, those striper are still in that 65 degree water but once they begin to spawn in that section, the bite tightens up only because they are spawning..

Lake Trout- these are just becoming ridiculous.  Stay 20 – 30′ range in your presentation. The population is heavy.  They are easy to catch. Troll all bright color spoons.  Shiner size live bait on the bottom in those depths or suspended are automatic…friendly to see on fish find finders. Foccus from marker 10 to the dam.  This is the most friendly fish to target for next few weeks…they are active above lake tree lines often 25′ from the surface.  Now is your time to safely troll over them.  Good time to experiment mixing in small lures, large rooster tables, etc…beyond spoons.

Bass are out of season but some very large ones start to appear. Most all traditional methods of spinner baits, swim baits, jerk baits are the ticket….hot on any fallen timber laying near flats. Focus on 3 – 8′.

This report is provided by Trophy Guide Service, Inc.

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