Weekly Lake Fork Report From Guide Jim Reaneau

[jreaneau]

Well, I got some good news. As of yesterday the lake was 1’9” low and water is still coming in. With the rain coming this weekend it may fill the lake. The back of the major creeks are muddy and cold. Water was 41 to 44 in Birch and 44 to 47 on the main lake. The main lake water is clear. Lipless crank baits, big spinner baits and jigs have been the baits I have tied on. The Jigging spoon is a back up for the deep water. Covering plenty of water has been the pattern and working the area very good when you either catch a fish or get a bite. Areas I have been working are main lake points and secondary points going into bays and creeks. I am flipping a jig out in 14 to 18 foot of water that has timber. Pitch several times to each tree trunk or stump. I am flipping into heavy brush like cedar bushes. You will need a heavy action rod and 20 plus pound line to get the fish out of the cover. We are not catching great numbers but are catching some nice fish. In previous articles I have mentioned many times this is not a numbers time of the year but a Quality time of the year. Most days are 3 to 5 bites and there exceptions
to this on some days. This will hold till the end of February and then the numbers will pick up. The main thing I stress right now is the fish of a life time may be on the next cast. Spend as much time as you can right now out on the lake.
The crappie have been biting up on the main lake and minnows and jigs have been the baits of choice. 31 to 41 foot of water has been the best depths.
Dress for the cold and layer up so you can take clothes off if it warms up. A good Rain suit over your clothes can be a great wind breaker and keep the warm in to keep you comfortable. I use Seal Skin Gloves on rainy days that are water proof and batting gloves on cold windy days.
I keep some of the hand warmers you tear open and shake in my pockets and when my hands get cold I will put my hand in side. Keep your jacket pocket zipped up with the warmer inside after each time you put your hand inside and it will last all day.
I have open dates in January and February and I have a Crappie fishing special for 4 people and lodging going on from now till the end of February. For details call.
Jim Reaneau
1-888-918-5088 after 6PM
1-903-335-2009 Cell