Tenoroc Fishing Forecast

Largemouth Bass:

During the summer months, largemouth bass in phosphate pits tend to be active early in the morning and late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Target shallow areas near vegetation such as lily pads, hydrilla beds, and submerged trees where bass seek cover and ambush prey. Topwater lures like frogs and buzzbaits can be effective during low light conditions. As the sun rises, switch to soft plastic worms, jerkbaits, or crankbaits that mimic smaller fish or crawfish. Focus on drop-offs and deeper areas adjacent to shallow cover. Patience is key as bass may be scattered; be prepared to cover different depths until locating feeding fish. Lakes Fishhook, 2, 3, 4, 5, B, C, Legs, and Lost Lake East and West are good places to target Tenoroc’s largemouth bass. Numerous TrophyCatch submissions of bass larger than 8 lbs. were caught and released in 2021/2022 so your trophy still swims at Tenoroc! Check out the TrophyCatch website for details!

Bream/Panfish:

Panfish are abundant in phosphate mined lakes and can provide consistent action throughout the summer. Target shallow, weedy areas with light tackle using small hooks (size 8 to 12) and live bait such as worms, crickets, or small minnows. Adjust the depth until finding where the fish are actively feeding, typically in water less than 6 feet deep. Use a bobber to keep the bait suspended just above the vegetation or near fallen trees and docks. Panfish are active feeders during daylight hours, making mornings and late afternoons prime times to catch them. Lakes Cemetery, Derby, 5, A, B, Little, Long, Picnic, Pine, and Shop are good places to locate Tenoroc’s panfish.

Catfish:

Catfish are typically more active during warmer periods, making summer evenings ideal for fishing. Look for deeper holes and channels within the phosphate lakes, especially near inflows and outflows where water movement can concentrate fish. Fresh cut bait such as shad, chicken livers, hot dogs or prepared stinkbaits work well on the bottom using a slip sinker rig. Alternatively, fishing with live bait like nightcrawlers or shiners can attract larger specimens. Patience is crucial as catfish may not bite immediately; allow time for them to locate and smell the bait. Lakes Cemetery, Coronet, Derby, Halfmoon, Horseshoe, 10, Long, Picnic, and Shop are good places to target Tenorc’s Catfish.

Black Crappie:

Black crappie in phosphate pits can be found in deeper water during the summer months, often near submerged structure such as brush piles, fallen trees, or artificial reefs. Use small jigs (1/32 to 1/16 ounce) tipped with live minnows or soft plastic bodies in colors like chartreuse, white, or silver. Fish vertically near the structure or troll slowly along drop-offs and ledges where crappie congregate. Dawn and dusk are optimal times for crappie fishing, but they can also be caught during the day by adjusting to their depth preferences. Experiment with different depths until locating the active schools. Lakes 4, B, C, Long, and Picnic are good places to target Tenoroc’s black crappie.