As of October 11, 2024, Lake Guntersville in Alabama is offering some of the best fall fishing you can ask for. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
### Weather and Water Conditions
The weather is cooling down, with daytime temperatures in the mid-70s and nighttime temperatures dipping into the mid-50s. This cooler weather has the water temperature dropping, which is ideal for bass fishing. The water is clear with about 4-6 feet of visibility.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 7:00 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:30 PM. These times are perfect for catching bass during their most active periods.
### Fish Activity
The fall season has kicked in, and the bass are feeding aggressively. With the cooler nights and shorter days, the big fish are on the move. Yesterday, anglers reported catching significant numbers of bass, with some trips landing over 30 fish per day. The average weight of the best five fish per day has been around 16-18 pounds, with some days yielding even larger catches, including fish over 24 pounds.
### Types of Fish and Amounts
Bass are the main target, and both largemouth and spotted bass are active. Crappie fishing is also excellent this time of year. Anglers have been catching a wide range of sizes, from 14 inches up to 6-pounders.
### Best Lures and Bait
For bass, frogging and flipping are highly effective techniques right now. Soft plastics, particularly those that mimic baitfish or crawdads, are working well across various depths. Hair jigs and spoons are also producing good results, especially out deep on the creek ledges. Moving baits like crankbaits and spinnerbaits can also trigger strikes from active bass.
### Hot Spots
Focus on the creek ledges, where schools of bass are still present. The outside grasslines in 7-8 feet of water are also holding plenty of fish. Additionally, look for areas where shad are schooling, as these will attract larger bass.
### Tidal Report
Lake Guntersville is a freshwater lake and does not have tides. However, the current generated by the dam can affect fish behavior, especially during periods of water release.
In summary, Lake Guntersville is in prime condition for fall fishing. With the right lures and knowledge of the hot spots, you're set for a memorable day on the water. Enjoy your fishing trip