Renowned Hackberry guide, Captain Kirk Stansel, was very excited this week when we talked about current conditions on Big Lake. He stated that the water conditions were greatly improved and that they were catching lots of fish. For bigger trout he stated that top water patterns were best and that these are improving each day. Stansel also reported lots of birds working and that they were using lead head jigs and soft plastics both with and without popping corks.
Currently, he is using one quarter ounce jig heads and soft plastics including Hackberry Hustlers, Stanley Wedgetails, Berkley Gulp! and Mr Twister RT. Stansel suggest the reefs are holding some of the better fish with fishing excellent in numerous places on the lake. He suggested Turners Bay as well as West Cove for trout and the southeast bank for reds. For reds, he also suggested the high-vibrating baits like Stanley's Swim Jig and a Chatterbait.
Greg Vidrine, local veteran angler and retail tackle specialist, mentioned last week about how much fishing would improve as winds slack up. This is happening with clearer water conditions and and numerous reports from anglers that are coming in with more limits. Reports of 3 to 5 pound trout are being caught on a daily basis with a few 6's and larger. As mentioned earlier, some of bigger fish are being caught on top water action. Good catches of redish have been reported from anglers working the east bank north of Pelican Point.
Elaine Huck, of Calasieu Point Landing, also reports improved fishing last weekend and stated Sunday was especially good with light winds. LNG Canal is one area Huck suggest as it offers some protection from the wind. In addition, the pier at Calcasieu Point is a great place for anglers to fish who do not own boats.