May 17, 2011

Air Temperature: Low 42, High 65
Water Temperature: Low 65, High 67
Water Elevation: 362' and falling (Normal Pool 359')
Water Clarity: Fairly Clear 3' visibility

It's the full moon in the middle of May. The Largemouths are making their last big surge of spawning activity, and the Red Ear, Bluegill, and Catfish are at their peak of spawning. We had a great day catching lots of big Red Ears a couple days ago. Today I plan on catching some BIG ole Basses!

Check out photos of recent catches on my "Pictures" web page

BLUEGILL / RED EAR
Notes on Action: It's hard to beat these fish for fast action, strong fight, and good eatin'.
What to Use: Small spider jigs, crickets, waxworms, and earthworms will all catch 'em.
Where to Fish: Pea gravel points in 4' to 8' are sure bets.

BLACK BASS
Notes on Action: Action is great in certain areas. Not so good in others.
What to Use: Top waters, spinner baits, soft plastics, and crank baits are all producing.
Where to Fish: Pea gravel points are a sure bet for action. Flipping flooded timber on deeper banks and top waters on the edge of flooded brush will get you some. Deep cranks on gravel bars at the mouths of bays may get some big ones.

CRAPPIE
Notes on Action: I've heard of a few good messes of big slabs being made.
What to Use: Chartreuse 2 1/2" curly tails on 1/8 oz jigs.
Where to Fish: 10' to 14' deep over brush on points.

CATFISH
Notes on Action: The Channel Cats are spawning shallow. This is the best time of year to catch 'em shallow.
What to Use: Night Crawlers, cut bait, shrimp, leeches, etc. will get you some.
Where to Fish: 4' to 8' deep along riprap banks are a good bet.

Now's the time to book your summer Bass fishing trip with me. E-mail Info@CaptainKirksGuideService.com or call 877-354-6017.

If you'd like to view pictures of past and recent catches, check 'em out at my "Pictures" page.

See ya on the water!
Captain Kirk, out!