For most of the country, October brings a major weather change. Cooler temps fire up the feed for fish on most lakes and rivers but not here in Tallahassee, FL, especially if it’s anything like the past several years. Highs in the 80’s to low 90’s and overnight lows in the 60’s keep local bass fishing tough. Water temperatures will remain in the low 80’s, possibly hitting mid 70’s by Halloween.
Florida bass are negatively affected like no other bass in the country when a drastic cold front comes through; drastic being a 12 degree drop with a NW wind. Lake Jackson is a prairie lake with very little shoreline cover. Portions of the lake have higher banks and some housing, and other sides are left open with some cow pasture, tall grass and a few trees. The lake itself is loaded with actual fish cover such as lily pads and coon tail grass.
During 2017, Tallahassee experienced a bit of a drought. Water levels fell and several boat ramps were too low to use. Grass and other vegetation grew in new places covering over 50% of the surface and 80% of the bottom; those are my estimates mind you, but I spend a lot of time on that lake.
Recent rains have brought levels up a few inches and that helps with the bite. Most catches come from the deeper grass and lily pad edges that bass use to move vertically for food and comfort. That’s good for fishermen because you probably can’t access some deeper holes with bass boats anyway. Top-water swim baits worked quickly to the edge and then allowed to fall is a great way to elicit a strike. Always keep an eye on your line as it falls; any twitch/jump of the line or if it stops suddenly probably means you’ve got one on.
Another effective way is a weightless worm fished on lighter line. Simply cast a worm in natural color very close to the deeper edge. It will take anywhere from 15 to 30 seconds to reach the bottom because water depths in these areas average 10’ to 14’. Pick up the slack and feel for
It will take anywhere from 15 to 30 seconds to reach the bottom because water depths in these areas average 10’ to 14’. Pick up the slack and feel for weight. Don’t set the hook hard on the lighter lines, you’ll break it.
Remember, be safe have fun and ALWAYS wear a life jacket while boating.
JR MUNDINGER
(850) 296-4071
www.fishtallahassee.com
fishtallahassee@yahoo.com