Lake Stone

Weather patterns will continue to be crucial this time of year. During late January and early February, look for cold fronts to push fish into deeper water, while warmer days following these systems should cause fish to seek forage in shallower areas. With water temperatures increasing from late February to early March, continue to monitor these cold fronts as they often impact feeding and spawning activity. Additionally, it is not unusual for certain areas in the lake to warm up faster than others. This can create “hot-spots” for sportfish activity so don’t be afraid to explore the entire lake perimeter. For the most success, observe weather conditions and adjust your fishing strategies, lures, and presentations accordingly. In December (2017) the FWC installed two large fish attractors composed of natural brush around bank access areas. Look for the large, white, cylindrical buoys which mark the center of these brush piles and try to fish the edges of these attractors.

Black Crappie generally migrate into shallower waters to spawn as water temperatures climb into the high 50s. Start looking for these fish in some of the deeper coves along the southern shoreline of the lake or around brush piles near the fishing pier and fishing fingers from late January to mid-February. Spawning activity typically peaks when water temperatures range from 60-62 degrees. Live minnows are a reliable bait, but small roostertail spinners, crank baits, and plastic jigs can be particularly fun when targeting these fish.

Water temperatures approaching the low-mid 60s will begin to draw Largemouth Bass into the shallows to spawn. Look for these fish in the centers of deeper coves and between fishing fingers starting in late February and early March. Male bass move in first, building nests in 2-6 feet of water with some even venturing as deep as 10 feet. Larger female bass will then begin to pair with males at each nest site. Peak spawning activity generally occurs around water temperatures of 64-66 degrees. Dark colored plastic worms/lizards are particularly effective at generating strikes from aggressive, spawning bass. Spinnerbaits, floater-diver type lures, and rat-L-traps are also popular artificial baits this time of year. During low-light conditions (sunrise/sunset) noisy topwater lures (buzzbaits and surface plugs) can be thrilling as they generate explosive strikes at the surface.

Bluegill and Redear Sunfish (shellcracker) will likely still be moving between shallow and deep-water areas based on the changing weather patterns. Fish these areas with red worms, wigglers, or crickets either on the bottom with a small weight or deep below a cork. Be sure to use small hooks and light tackle to prevent these fish from recognizing your gear. Artificial baits such as beetle spins, roostertails, or curly-tailed grubs can also be effective when fished with a slower retrieve to access deeper water. Redear Sunfish (shellcracker) generally begin to congregate as water temperatures approach the upper 60s with spawning activity peaking around 68-72 degrees. Use beef/chicken livers, commercial “stink-baits,” or earthworms, fished on the bottom to catch Channel Catfish in deeper portions of the lake.