Farm 13/Stick Marsh

To start the quarter, a wet winter/spring will have water moving at the structures near the south inlet, pump station 4 along the eastern shore of Farm 13, and in the north flow-way “Back Lot” near the ramp. Bass can be found actively feeding in these areas. Flows will probably taper soon in Farm 13/Stick Marsh barring another significant rain. During this quarter bass will move out from the shallows following the spawn. Vegetation has returned to the south shore of the lake, as well as a line of bullrush that was planted during the draw-down of spring 2023. Senko, swim-baits, and jigs are favorite lures this time of year. Spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, rattletraps, and zoom speed worms all produce well targeting the feeding bass near the flowing water. Wild golden shiners are the top option for those wanting to try live bait. Anglers are reminded that all largemouth bass caught must be released immediately under the special no harvest regulation.

Black crappie should be concentrated during this quarter in the ditches, the north flow-way, and in other submerged secondary canals. The cattail edge along the north end of the farm would be a good place to drop a jig. Any place that has an overhanging canopy of floating plants will provide good cover for crappie. Anglers targeting these tasty panfish should use minnows and/or small jigs (1/32-1/8 oz.) in twister tail or tube styles. Bluegill and shell-crackers will be found the humps and shell beds around the perimeter of the Stick Marsh as they move in shallow this quarter.

Anglers are reminded that Stick Marsh/Farm13 is catch-and-release for largemouth bass.