February 23, 2009
Lake Level: 915.51
Water Temps: 44-47
Fishing has been changing daily due to weather pattern changes. In some areas of the upper rivers and in the backs of creeks you can find water in the 50 degree range. This past Saturday in the Ozark Mountain Team Trail tournament there were several limits caught with a 3 lb. average. Some 6 & 7 pound fish with a big bass over 8 lbs. The weather was cloudy most of the day with 15-20 mph winds. On Sunday's tournament just a few limits were brought in, 5 lbs. being the big bass and there was blue bird skies and a light wind. What a difference a day makes.. Anglers reported that most of the fish were caught in the clearer water near the 86 bridge in Long Creek to the upper White River and in the Kimberling City area over to Aunt's Creek area.
Crankbaits & wigglewarts in crawdad patterns fished in 5' – 10' on channel swings banks in the creek arms proved to be successful. This pattern works best when cloudy and windy. If you get a day with high skies try backing out 15' – 20' and casting in 5' with Chompers twin tailed grubs or ¼- 3/8 Eakins jig or some kind of small profile jig with a green pumpkin or watermelon trailer. Stickbait fish have been caught from main lake points to the very backs of the creeks. Fish are scattered, when you get one bite you can usually get a few more in the same area.
I've heard reports of some grub fish being caught on main lake and secondary points, 15' – 20' deep on bottom or suspended at 15' – 20' over submerged timber. Use ¼ oz. or 5/16 oz. ball or darter head with 4" – 5" single tail grub or twin tailed Chompers in smoke, salt & pepper colors. A 3/8 football jig will also work here. This bite should get better as the water warms. Look for points with mixed with gravel and chunk rock leading into spawning coves. Fish are starting to stage in these areas.
Good Luck!