Water Level: 295.48 | Water Temperature: 52˚
Weather: 26˚ | Mostly Cloudy | Winds: 8 mph
1. Largemouth Bass: Target shallow brush and timber edges early and late using topwaters and suspending jerkbaits. During daylight, slow presentations like jig ‘n pig and Carolina-rigged plastic grubs in 3-5 feet of water produce the best results.
2. Striped Bass: Most activity is downlake below Clarksville, especially around creek mouths such as Eastland and Bluestone Creeks. Live shad, trolled crankbaits, and swim baits remain effective. Focus on slow trolling with bucktails or free-lining live bait.
3. Crappie: Concentrate near bridge pilings and submerged brushpiles. Vertical jigging small minnows or tiny grubs in 10-15 feet of water is productive.
With temperatures holding in the low 50s and mostly cloudy skies, fish are transitioning into more predictable winter patterns. Cooler water encourages bass to stay close to structure in shallower depths during low-light periods, while stripers continue to move downlake for feeding. Crappie remain concentrated and responsive to vertical presentations. Moderate winds should keep the water clean and stable, making for steady fishing conditions. Get out early or late for the best bass action, and be patient when targeting stripers and crappie. Good luck on the water!