Hurricane season is over and the ducks are showing up. Back in October the State sprayed the hydrilla around the shallow edges in our chain. Hopefully, it gives the bass cleaner, sandy areas. The bass are getting ready to go into pre-spawn mode. Water levels are up for the winter like crazy due to hurricane Irma. Male bass are schooling up, feeding on bait, and making their way into shallow waters to compete for spawning area. The big females will not be far behind, feeding on anything they can find. When the water temps drop in the low 70s as the cold fronts approach, the fish will keep going in shallower as the water cools. The first spawn will take place in less than 12 inches of water, usually in December. Ok, the bait of choice will be Zoom Vibe worms, and flukes. If fishing open water hydrilla; throw Rattle Traps, Yozuri 3d Minnow or Rapala X-Raps – all are good choices. My personal favorite is live wild shiners fished under a float. Shallow sandy areas, and hydrilla are your best bets.
Crappie will still be in deeper water until the first of the year. Fish open water along the edges of hydrilla patches. East Lake Toho is a good bet for big crappie – don’t forget to enter them in the Shad and Crappie Derby. Jigs tipped with a minnow are the norm, vary jig colors until you find what the fish like that day. Spider-rigging and long-lining with multiple poles gives the best chance for a limit of fish – 25 per person per day. Bluegills are scattered all over and are hit ‘n miss. Use red wigglers fished on the bottom. Crickets are also good. Enjoy the cool weather! Capt. Randy DuMars: 407-908-8498.
