The most consistent pattern for bass this past week was Zoom Centipedes in pumpkinseed or watermelon seed, light sinkers, light line, fished on rocky bluffs.
Some bass were located in the backs of coves. With the water now in the bushes, most of the bass will be located in the thickest brush available. Flipping plastics or jigs into the center of the bushes will entice lots of good fish. They are orienting to the willows and buckbrush. Buzzbaits and Zara Spooks are taking good fish in the early morning, while plastic worms and jigs, flipped on banks adjacent to the willows, or spinnerbaits along the shoreline, are taking good fish during the day.
Lots of large crappie are taking slow-rolled spinnerbaits or jerk baits adjacent to the buckbrush. Crappie may also be found on bridge pilings.
Catfish are biting everything in sight. Cut shad or chicken livers in shallow water are the ticket for the cats.
Striper fishing at the base of Kerr Dam is excellent. Fish to 18 pounds are not unusual. The key is determining when the gates are open. When only one gate is open, fishing is excellent. When more than one is open, fishing shuts down.
