"Heavy-D's" Hints (Features / Articles)

The clear mountain water impoundment of the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers offers a multitude of sport fishing opportunities for all anglers. Spotted Bass and Striped Bass are the most numerous and most sought after on the lake, yet large schools of White Bass, Crappie, Yellow Perch, Walleye, Shoal Bass, and even the mighty Largemouth Bass are abundantly present. In addition, Lake Lanier offers fantastic amounts of rough fish for game, such as Channel Catfish, Bluegill, and various species of Carp. All of these fish can be pursued in sporting fashion and each one is as enjoyable as the next!

The seasonal patterns of bass fishing can rapidly change. Spring usually heralds a feeding frenzy of activity, yet cold fronts and heat waves can seemingly halt this post-winter binge. These weather changes can be productive for the fisherman prepared for such instances.

Coming out of winter, the fish slowly migrate to their spawning grounds, feeding heavily along the way. Early spring cold fronts will shut these fish down only temporarily. Reverting to winter fishing staples such as a jig and pig, jigging spoons, slowly-fished crankbaits and finesse worms will continue to produce results.

As spring progresses, the fish go in and out of their spawning cycles in conjunction with the warming temperatures and the appropriate moon phase. Large numbers of fish can still be found using the weather as an aid. Low pressure fronts and even torrential down pours can provide exciting topwater action during these warmer spring months. Early in the morning and on those overcast, rainy days are great opportunities for topwater lures such as buzzbaits, jerkbaits, and the dependable Zara Spook. With these warmer conditions use these baits to canvas large areas of water to isolate aggressively feeding fish, however, don't limit yourself to these lures alone. Experiment often and you will create a seasonal pattern of your own.

- Dan Jorgensen

(As printed in Lake Lanier Magazine)