Clarks Hill Lake Fishing Report March 2016

Clarks Hill: Level: 1.5 feet below full pool. Temp: Morning surface temperatures are hovering around 48 degrees but are quickly on the rise. Clarity: The upper reaches of most major river and creek arms are still heavily stained, and the lower basin is lightly stained.

Bass: Guide Capt. Tony Shepherd reports, “Bass are biting on red lipless baits and Flat A crankbaits in crawfish color. The best bite is at the mouths of clear pockets. As the weather warms in March, the bass will being moving slowly to the backs of the coves for the spawn. Work secondary points back with ChatterBaits, lipless baits, Texas-rigged worms, shaky heads and swim jigs.”

Linesides: Tony reports, “When temperatures are below the 50-degree mark, think slow and small. Many of the quality fish have taken up residence in the heavily stained water preparing for their annual false spawning run. The water will warm rapidly as we transition toward March, and the metabolism of these terrific fighters will increase enough for some memorable catches. Freelining herring or utilizing planer boards to cover water will be the most efficient method of hooking into a freight train this spring. Artificial presentations have been and will continue to do well, also. An Ice Fly is the perfect size to imitate threadfin shad, which is a primary food source during cold-water conditions. By combining the Ice Fly with a 1/2-oz. bucktail, you can achieve greater casting distance, or you can maintain the proper trolling depth with this tiny, lightweight fish assassin.”

Crappie: Tony reports, “The bite has been great so far this year. Longlining the mouths of major creeks has been the best. Trolling jigs fished about 12 to 14 feet down in 20 to 25 feet of water with 1/8-oz. jig heads at a speed of .9 mph should get you at the right depth. Water temps are slowly rising between 45-50 some days. Southern Pro Hot Grubs in dark colors have been working the best in the stained water. With the warmer temps rising, the slabs should start to move shallow in preparation of the spawn. Georgia Little River and the Raysville area have been producing fish up to 2 pounds.”