Changing Water Levels Forces You to Adjust
by Capt. Mike Gerry
As we move into winter, the one thing that seems to be common on all lakes is the constant change of water levels. You go out there one day and the water is up two feet, and then the next, it is down three feet. The key is what do you as a fisherman does to adjust your fishing technique to the change of water levels. The first thing you must understand is what happens to the fish as the level of water changes.
Most pros believe that as the water level raises the fish scatter out, they migrate individually to areas that may be totally new territory like up into parking lots and picnic areas as they become flooded. The opposite occurs when the water is dropping the fish have a tendency to group up or concentrate together on points and channel edges and grass lines; the fish will quickly move off the flats and shallow coves.
The idea of rising water brings into play some great fall presentations as there is probably no better fall bait than a buzz bait and this becomes my bait of choice in rising water. One thing that rising water presents to the fisherman is areas of clear water, most water is stained but if you can find clear water I believe a bite is next. In falling water there is no better bait than crank bait digging the bottom off of points or along the edges of grass lines? Once you locate fish in dropping water levels you can really load the boat in a small concentrated area with crank bait. Remember angles mean everything when fishing a crank bait so be aware of your boat position when you to get a successful bite and repeat that position to add more bites and fish to your bag.
Lastly the key to changing water level is covering ground until you figure out a pattern and nothing does that better than search baits like spinner baits or rattle baits; so cover plenty of water quickly and you will be able to zero in on the bites when you get them!
About the author: Captain Mike Gerry
Living in the North Alabama Area since the 70's and fishing Lake Guntersville for over 35 years. I have many published fishing articles world wide in magazines, newspapers and on-line magazines. I offer the most comprehensive information for Lake Guntersville, fishing tips, reports, and featured articles. I challenge you to utilize my Professional Guide Service and compare the knowledge, friendliness and good time on the water to anyone. Captain Mike Gerry can be reached at his website for Fish Lake Guntersville Guide Service at www.fishlakeguntersvilleguideservice.com or by phone at (256) 759-2270. Email bassguide@comcast.net
