Lake Blue Ridge Fishing Report September 2014

Blue Ridge: Level: 0.8 feet above full pool. Temp: 80 degrees. Clarity: Clear.

Bass: Guide Eric Crowley reports, “Going into September, we are looking forward to cooler temps and more active fish. September is when the walleye will move up in the column, the smallies will stay up more then 15 minutes a day, and the largemouth will start to cruise the shorelines looking for baitfish. Green Creek, Morganton Point and Star Creek are known to have a great September bite, and I for one like many other locals are looking forward to that. Live bait, spoons fished both vertically and casting, small spinnerbaits and deep crankbaits will be the go-to baits in September fishing between 15 to 40 feet. Look for surface activity on the main-lake points no matter how small. It may be that school of bronzers you been looking for. TVA will start the winter draw-down around Labor Day as usual, so watch for falling water levels, and be aware of submerged hazards.” Guide Eric Welch reports, “Fishing has been slow. It’s only been taking 6 to 7 pounds to win local tournaments. The fish I’ve been catching have been deep in brush and laydowns. I’m using shaky heads, Texas rigs and drop shots. If fishing up the river, fish the deep bends of the river that have brush on them. Keep a topwater lure handy for any breaking fish. Also, watch your electronics for balls of bait and brush that fish my be hanging over.”