Lake Allatoona Fishing Report - The Bite

With reservoir surface temperatures dropping into the '60s, Autumn is here to stay.

Currently our reservoir is approximately 6+feet below full pool and with little exception can expect to continue to drop another 10 ft. into anticipated winter pool over the next couple of months. 

The hybrid, white bass and striper action has definitely picked up. For several weeks now we have been catching a lot of striped bass that have likely come into the reservoir from the upper Etowah. Reservoir conditions our favorable with the cooler temperatures, and there's no doubt that all the good food is here. The River was a good sanctuary for them requiring higher oxygen and cooler temperatures, but the food was obviously scarce looking at some of these first run fish - long and skinny.

The bite for the Line-sides has been pretty much the same as most autumn patterns, and down-lining frisky herring, threadfin or gizzard shad are definitely the go-to on most days if looking to connect with higher numbers.

We have noted a couple of trips out these past couple weeks where the reaction bite superseded dripping a live bait in front of the fish. On these occasions, the flutter or power reeling of a spoon as well as trolling A-rigs and Umbrella rigs at 2 and 1/2 to 3 mph were paramount in getting the bite.

This past week has brought some challenging conditions with high winds and cold rain but as we come into the peak of this cold front, the fact is the fish are still chewing. Catching that barometer dropping can be a big winner, and the fish tend to feed a little more aggressively here in anticipation of a storm. 

The bass bite has been pretty good as well. Though we have not been targeting them exclusively these past couple of weeks, we see the legends such as Bill Payne that are out there doing just that and enjoying good numbers and quality. 

The crappie always chew. Just the fact of the matter. However, it always feels like it's time to fish for them when the temperatures drop and a drizzle is in the air. Targeting again the other day for multi-species, we were able to pick up  another lake record black crappie that was as tall as it was long at 17+ inches and really nudging the 4 lb. mark! Those are definitely ones to let go and let go. Keeping the gene pool in the reservoir is always more important than having your name in the books in my own opinion. It's nice to fish with anglers that agree and also willing to set those free. 

So from here on out, it's Fall y'all!!

Get you a can of worms, a bucket full of frisky boo-boos or 'minners', some deep diving plugs or some A-rigs and just get out there. 

It is a lovely time of year to enjoy the reservoir. Eagles soaring, foxes playing and leaves changing await the watchful eyes. Oh, and plenty of fish to be caught, too. 

God bless and tight lines, friends!

FOOTBALL SEASON HYBRIDS AND MORE!