Lake Fork
Water Temp: 81 - 84
Water Clarity: Clear
Wow! How much rain is going to continue to fall? I remember just a few years back when it did this in the spring, but for it to be in the low 80's the first week of July in TEXAS is absolutely incredible! Fishing continues to be somewhat tough! One day we'll have pretty decent size as you can tell from the pictures on the bottom of the "FAT GIRLS" page on my site and the next day it's all I can do to break 2 pounds for the size of fish! Our fish look and fight very well and every fish has a great big belly on it. This is telling me they're eating and when you catch one stick around because chances are there are several more in that same spot or area eating too.
It's been kinda funny and I've even discussed this with few of my recent customers and that is; every fisherman is always looking for that secret or new bait to put them over the top. Here is where the funny part is, this summer the majority of our fish have come from torpedo's and now just recently buzz-baits. You know the old stand-by baits that are probably collecting dust or rusting in the box? Anyway, regardless of the baits we're throwing I've found that it better have a hint of chartreuse in it or you had better sit-down, get some finger-nail polish and paint some on it. However, 1/4oz Rat-L-Traps and 100 / 200 series Bandit crank baits, chrome/black has been one of the two best colors and so has the Chartreuse/shad (Bandit) and Chartreuse Tiger (Rat-L-Trap). Grass has been the key.
There is a definite inside grass line and an outside grass line. However, with the water being high, it's harder to find because the water being further above it. The deep bite has been far from consistent. One day you can find a few and the next they're not to be found. Wacky-rigs are still working well in red bug, plum apple and watermelon red by Xcite Baits. Secondary points and main lake banks are the key areas to hit and make sure you have plenty of vegetation around.
Also, the jig bite is on and doing very well! Good numbers and size have been coming in the boat. If you want to learn how to fish a jig now is the time to come and this bite should remain until early July, if not longer and with the weather being as mild as it is August is going to be good too.
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.
• 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'm running a group special right now, two guides, one night lodging for $650.00.
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 June; July – 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 28 & 29. 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 Lures, KeelShield, Mercury Marine, Nitro Boats, Pflueger Reels, Rat-L-Trap, Scum Frog, Shakespeare Fishing Line, "The" Bass Fishing Forum.com, Xcite Baits.