Lake Eufaula Fishing Report – October 2017

Eufaula: Level: 2 feet below 190 full pool. Temp: Mid 70s. Clarity: Slight stain.

Bass: Tournament angler Les Bratcher (#bigbitebaits #alxrods) reports, “Things are on the upswing at Lake Eufaula. Anglers are beginning to catch bass around the hydrilla on rattling baits, ChatterBaits and topwater plugs. The ledge bite is still good. As temps begin to cool, everything should improve. Deeper fish will begin to bite better on crankbaits, plastics and jigs. I have heard reports that the shad are starting to move to the creeks for the typical fall pattern. All in all, things are picking up, and the next several months should be fun on the ol’ pond.” Guide Billy Darby reports, “October is a month of transition. Bass, crappie and other species of fish begin to search for a comfort zone. Bass in particular begin their trek from the depths in search of oxygenated water and a diet other than shad. Creature plastics fished above the hydrilla or punched through it will get bit. Don’t forget the wacky-rigged floating worm fished over decaying vegetation. Late October is topwater paradise on points adjacent to just a little bit deeper water. Study your Lakemaster map to find ditches that drain from shallow to deeper, but that are shallow enough that hydrilla grows on the banks but not in the ditch. This an avenue of approach to feeding frenzies and where the M.L.F. championship was won last year. Get diverse, and prepare for all variables that are dictated by weather conditions such as wind, clarity, surface temps, water level and flow.” Guide Sam Williams reports, “The river is coming up since Irma has visited us. Bass have been slow with fronts moving through. The cooler water will make them more active. We have been catching bass near vegetation working soft plastics slow. Early morning, a topwater plug around the cover is getting bites. Smaller frogs are also working.”