Hello Folks! Fishing prediction’s are always more difficult this time of year because of all the different variables that make up the current forecast for both weather and fish. During February we could see highs around 70 degrees and sunny or cloudy with highs in the teens, I’m predicting we will see both this month and our fish will respond accordingly. I begin to look at the last two weeks of this month to kick off a graduating bite that will escalade all the way to late spring and early summer. Fish of all species will begin staging and preparing for there spawn, which depending on species, will begin in late February and run through June. Great fishing is to be had!
Our shad population should be your primary focus for the next couple of months regardless of the species your after. Our shad will spawn in both main lake tributaries, flats and pockets all across the reservoir. Our three main tributaries to the north, which feed the reservoir, will by far harbor the most shad during this time of year. Typically both gizzard and threadfin shad will spawn in the 52 - 58 degree range, multiple spawns are to be expected during prime water conditions. Prime water conditions will include good water levels flooding into shoreline cover and decent to good inflow from runoff in the creeks and rivers. Fish that are spawning on the main lake will use wind current rather than inflow to propagate there eggs, keep this in mind when the wind picks up. These bait fish and where they are located should dictate where you fish and the amount of time you should spend in an area.
The much anticipated walleye spawning runs will be taking place towards the latter part of the month. Lower water levels this year will have the fish more concentrated and should allow for great angling opportunities, on the contrary these water levels are not so good for spawning and propagation. I look for most all of our walleye populations to be moving into the shallows in preparation for there spawn. When surface temperatures reach the upper 40's and lower 50's for a consecutive amount of days the bite will really take off. Generally the walleye spawn will be completed during March and consistent fishing can be expected at this time. Depending on the amount of rain we receive over the next few weeks will dictate how much time our walleye will spend up river after the spawn. Live bait rigs with both large shiners and crawlers, along with spoons and jerk baits should be considered during this time of year. Look at areas with current, small chunk rock mixed with gravel and deeper water next to shallow waterledges to hold the best numbers of walleye along with other species of game fish this month.
Crappie, white bass and hybrids will be staging this month in the rivers and tributaries. Look for the Whites and Hybrids to really start schooling in preparation for there runs that will take place later into March. Both the whites and hybrids are already in the tributaries to the north. The head runners are about half way back in the creeks and river arms with the majority lagging behind. Right now we have located them in the channel side feeding into some of the primary flats, as the days get longer and water temperature rise look for them to start pushing up on the flats feeding on the smaller threadfin shad and crayfish. As for the crappie, I look for them to be sliding closer and closer to the mouths of the creeks and pockets that they will eventually spawn in. Concentrate on greater depths using your electronics to find these fish off the side of main lake and secondary points leading into spawning areas. Jigs, Crankbaits, spoons and split shot rigs with minnows should be used when pursuing our crappie.
I always consider February to be a prelude of greater things to come on the reservoir. With overall warming days and nights towards the end of this month it’s time to knock the dust off the rod and reels and make your way to the water in anticipation of a great day here on Greers Ferry. Keep in mind that a streak of four or five warming days into the upper 50's and 60's combined with longer days will send most all species to the shallows. If you have any question’s about the reservoir or would like to set up a Guided trip please call me at (501)691-5701 or shoot me an email at fishgreersferry@gmail.com I will get back with you as soon as I’m off the water. If your considering a Spring fishing trip please contact me to book your date today as I only have limited availability in March and April. www.fishgreersferry.com
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