The current Lake level is 704.62 with the water temperature in the low 60’s.  The lake is dangerously low while the Dam is being worked on and could possibly reach lower levels.

Hybrid fishing came to an abrupt halt for me and the white bass became real spooky. We had to make very long casts for the bigger whites and then they were gone.  With the cold temperatures and higher winds, look for the whites on the wind blown banks.  Baits would include, rooster tails, Pop”R’s and Shad Raps.

Most of my trips have been for crappie, which we have found in 15-18 ft of water right on the bottom dragging minnows.  Should be time to switch to jigs on the bare bank bluffs and some of the deeper timber areas.  I would think 18-20 feet would be ideal.

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 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…..