Lake Chatuge Fishing Report – August 2023

Chatuge: Level: Full at 1,925. Temp: 82-84 degrees. Clarity: Clear.

Bass: Guide Eric Welch, of Welch’s Guide Service, reports, “Fishing has been good, We’re in our summer patterns. There has been a little bit of topwater action going on, but I’m still marking a lot of bait deep. The bait has not been staying up in the water column for a real good topwater bite. I’ve been catching fish out in ditches and offshore structures while using my electronics and Garmin Livescope. To catch these fish, I’m throwing a shaky head, drop shot and swimbait. This coming month, the baitfish should start moving up and feeding at night, so the topwater bite should start getting better. I always keep at least two topwater baits tied on so I can get to them quickly: a Berkley Cane Walker and a Strike King Sexy Dawg Jr. Now depending on the size of the baitfish, I will also have a Strike King Sexy Swimmer on a 1/4-oz. jig head to cast where the fish have blown up and won’t hit a topwater bait. Now if you like fishing banks, laydowns and points, try throwing a shaky head, Texas rig and drop shot. I also have been pitching a 3/8-oz. jig around lay-downs and brush. Good luck.”

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