The current Lake level is 704.73 with the water temperature in the high 50’s.  The lake is dangerously low while the Dam is being worked on and could possibly reach lower levels.

White bass are still in the shallows feeding on shad on the windy points and backs of the coves.  Best bait is a inline spinner like a Blue Fox cast within inches of the bank.  Small Shad Raps are also a good choice.  Watch out because there may be a hybrid up there too.

It’s been a crappie fishing bonanza, as they have reach the winter pattern along the bare bank bluffs. Casting an 1/8th ounce jig near the bank and working it SLOWLY back to the boat has produced several fast limits of nice crappie.  This pattern should continue until March when they head to the spawning coves.

I’ll be cutting back this winter, beginning in November to catch up on the lure making.  My old bones are getting to the point they need a vacation, so this winter I’m going to try and sit on the sidelines and let  the younger guides brave the cold.  I will still be taking a trip or two if it isn’t too cold with wind…I really hate to admit age is catching up….It’s still just a number and I still haven’t decided what I want to be when I grow up….BUT….I’m going to wait until Spring this go around.  Maybe by then the people at the Dam will have finished their work and we can get back to business.

As many of you know, Sterett Creek Marina and Resort sold and the new owners, BeYonder Campgrounds has taken over and is busy getting ready to make some changes in the facility I think we will all like… Winter will be extremely busy with changes to the Camp sites and the motel areas. Not sure what lies ahead for the Marina yet, but another dock is in the plans.

That’s it for now, be careful and watch out for the other guy…..