July is known for large stringers of big bass coming from main lake ledges. Typical summer patterns on Lake Talquin are in full effect. The shallow water bite, other than on the main lake edges, is nonexistent, so keep it simple. With water temps in the 90’s, big bass have no reason to move to the banks with all the bait concentrated in deeper water. Other than the occasional 5 or 6lber cruising bream beds early in the morning, you’ll need to be fishing in 10’ to 30’ of water.
Believe it or not, the brighter the sun, the better the bite, because schools of baitfish tighten up near sand bars and ledges on the edges of the main channel. Bass suspend under or around these bait balls waiting for the right time to feed. Many things can trigger a feeding frenzy: often times it’s boat traffic. Once this begins, action is fast and furious. Vibrating blade baits in silver or gold, rattle traps and crank baits will all give you good results at any time. Keep a close eye on your fish finder because daytime schooling action happens below the surface this time of year.
When the action of feeding fish slows down, mine the area with a jig or Carolina-rig. Bass tend to bite better on top of ledges when schooling, but can be caught on the drop-offs also. When targeting these fish, it’s important to use a longer than normal leader on your Carolina-rig.
Crappie fishermen find the best results happen in the main river channel. Early mornings, they’ll be in mid-depths. Just look for the bait and they’ll be underneath. During high bright skies, they’ll be on top of the bait. When you see this you’re probably not going to be catching much, but stay with it, things will change. Tight lining rosy red minnows or shiners to the prescribed depth is the preferred method in the summer for success.
Hope this helps, and for more info visit www.fishtallahassee.com.
JR MUNDINGER
(850) 296-4071
www.fishtallahassee.com
fishtallahassee@yahoo.com