Lake Fork
Water Temp: 61 - 67
Water Clarity: Slightly Stained to clear
So, what do you call inconsistent weather? ANSWER: Inconsistent fishing!!! From one day to the very next we're literally throwing the tackle box at them. Well, maybe not my customers, but I am for sure. The Bandit 100 series crankbait has been the most consistent thing I've found that the fish will bite. Even then it hasn't been very many. We've got more fronts pushing through this week, but at least it won't have any adverse effect on the temperatures of the air and water. With that being stated I'm really looking for the fishing to stabilize and really turn on! It's definitely time for this to happen!
The topwater bite is doing everything it can to take place and on my last trip we had at least 10 to 12 bites, but were only able to connect on two of them. However, one of them weighed-in at 7 pounds 13 ounces and hit like someone fell in the water. Scum Frogs and other types of frogs are what are producing the most for us. The fish are everywhere on the lake. Better fishing is being found toward the dam areas or between Highways 515 East and 154. I know that is a very large range, but if you'll stay between there you'll find your better fish and numbers. The depth is still very shallow and the deeper bite is coming, but won't quite be there for a few more weeks. Bass fry are everywhere and so are spawning bass. Here over the next week and through May perch and fire-tiger patterns will be the way to go. Simply because the perch will start spawning in May
Secondary points are the places we're keying in on and then moving around the lake as it determines to me where we should be. Just be careful on the lake, with the lake back to near full pool it is making a very dangerous situation, but then again Lake Fork is a dangerous lake in the first place. If you're not where you're sure, keep the boat off plane. With the upcoming forecasts I'm positive the numbers will get better each day. Check out the "Fat Girls" on my web site and give me a holler, as I would like to be your guide!
The pictures of some of our catch are on the 2007 "Fat Girls" page on my site, www.fishinwithjeff.com. All of the fish pictured are of fish over 4 pounds, unless it is a child or woman. However, in a lot of cases those pictures will exceed that barrier throughout the year.
There are fish on the beds all over the lake. "IF" you are wanting to sight fish please be considerate of those anglers who aren't sight fishing. Most likely you're going to catch larger fish by not sight fishing anyway and you can catch more fish.
Lake Fork is 2' feet low, but don't let that deter you from going fishing there, just be aware that the lake is not at full pool.
* My 2007 Nitro 898DC is for sale. It is completely loaded! Retail this boat would sale for over $41,000. Selling price is $27,500.00.
• If you are looking to buy a Nitro bass boat or a Nitro fish/ski boat I have Nitro gift certificates that can save you from $250.00 to $500.00. Just let me know you want or need one and I'll see to it that I get it to you.
* I will be holding a beginner "Bassin' Class" June 23, 2007. Please check my web site for more details.
If I can be of more help or assistance regarding a trip or "Bassin' Class" please contact me at 972-636-7022 / 800-965-0350 or by e-mail at jeff@jeffkirkwood.com. My web site, www.fishinwithjeff.com. If your club, organization or church is looking for a guest speaker I'd be happy to come just give me a call and we'll get it on the calendar.
It's that time of year to start looking at your calendar for guide trips for winter and spring. The earlier you book your date the easier it will be to get the date(s) you want. I have dates available if you're looking for a FULL-TIME guide. Available dates through May; May – 14, 15, 23, 24, 28, 29 & 31. So, should you want to become one of my many valued customers and a great group of fishermen give me a call, I'd be honored to be your guide. UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOOD LUCK & TIGHT-LINES!!!
Proud Sponsors of Jeff & his guide service: All Star Rods, Amsoil, Bandit, FGHP.com, J&J Sports, KeelShield, Lake Fork Tackle, Mercury Marine, Nitro, Pflueger Reels, Rat-L-Trap, Scum Frog, Shakespeare Fishing Line, "The" Bass Fishing Forum.com