Lake Chatuge Fishing Report – July 2023

Chatuge: Level: 0.4 above 1925. Temp: 75-76 degrees. Clarity: Clear.

Bass: Guide Eric Welch, of Welch’s Guide Service, reports,  “Fishing has been good. They have moved out to their summer areas but have been scattered. 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’m starting to find fish out in ditches and offshore structures while using my electronics. To catch these fish, I’m throwing a shaky head, drop shot and swimbaits. This month you should start seeing fish chasing bait and blowing up. I always keep at least two topwater baits tied on so I can get to them quickly. I like 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 laydowns and brush. Good luck.”

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