Fayette County Fishing Report

January 2003

Okay, Okay, the fish have not behaved as I wrote...but then it was 6 weeks ago!

 Check out my eAngler report for more up to date information.

Happy New Year! And what a fall we had/early winter we had on Fayette. After all the big rains at the end of October, the fishing really turned on. The fish were shallow and could be caught by about any bait you thought to throw.

Now here we are in January and we can assume that typical patterns will hold. The prevailing southerly winds will push warm water into the coves to the north of the discharge. That means that the fish will start moving into a pre-spawn mode in those areas. If the winds are consistently from the north, this will be delayed a bit.
            Many people are fishing the discharge this time of year and that is not a bad area to start. If I am on the lake early, I head there. Small finesse baits can be very effective on 10# P-Line with a bit of Sticky Weight added to the line (about 1/8 ounce). I have had a great amount of success with the Yamamato Cut Tail in the new Green Pumpkin/Watermelon color. A 6” Senko in the same color has also done well. A double willow, 3/8 ounce War Eagle spinnerbait has also produced well around the discharge.

Another effective technique is to go to the deep humps and trees. Throwing a Carolina Rigged finesse bait can be very effective in those areas. A DD-22 in my favorite color, Splatter Bass will also produce on these humps. Don’t forget your spoons in the same area!

As January moves along the fish will begin to move to the points in other sections of the lake. Wacky worms, small crankbaits along with a Lucky Craft Lipless Vibrator bait in American Shad will all produce. I know the lucky Craft folks are very proud of their baits but there is no doubt in my mind, you will catch more fish with them. The LC Pointer jerk bait will also catch a good number of fish during this time of year.

Please remember to dress warming this time of year and keep your life jacket on while fishing alone. This is the time of year that I have lost too many friends all due to hypothermia. Have a healthy respect for Mother Nature, as she will spank you if you do not.

The fishing shows are getting under way. I look forward to seeing you folks at the Bass Pro Shops booth at the Houston area shows and remember the store will have our Fishing Classic from March 15^th till the 23^rd.

Finally, I teach bass classes at Bass Pro Shops in Katy on alternate Sunday mornings. If you are interested in attending call the store to get a schedule (281) 644-2200. The classes range from Basic Bass to advanced classes refining your skills in particular areas ranging from Drop shooting to rigging plastics. They are designed with veterans, rookies and kids in mind.

If you would like to book a trip to Fayette give me a call (281) 499-3799, email (FishCoach@compassnet.com) or check out my website: www.compassnet.com/fishcoach.

 

God Bless America.