Catch Big Bass at the Lake of the Ozarks This Weekend

As of October 16, 2024, the Lake of the Ozarks is buzzing with activity, especially with the Big Bass Bash tournament looming this weekend. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Weather and Time
The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise is at 7:23 AM, and sunset will be at 6:24 PM. Given the fall season, the cooler mornings and warmer afternoons make for ideal fishing conditions.

### Fish Activity
Fishing has been a bit challenging lately, but the lake is healthy and full of life. Largemouth and spotted bass are active, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. These periods are prime for catching those bigger-than-average fish that tend to roam the banks.

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Electrofishing surveys from earlier this year indicated a strong population of bass, with 25 percent of largemouth bass on the Niangua Arm and 12 percent on the Glaize Arm being 15 inches or larger. Spotted bass are also plentiful, with 30 percent on the Niangua Arm and 24 percent on the Glaize Arm being over 12 inches.

### Best Lures and Bait
For this time of year, topwater baits like walking baits or spook-style baits are highly effective, especially in the mornings. Jigs, particularly those from Trophy Bass Company, are excellent for picking up big fish. Soft plastics such as brush hogs and beaver-style baits work well around docks, brush piles, and points. Buzz baits can also produce results, especially in the early morning hours. When fishing in the backs of creeks or around boat docks, a swimbait like the XPS Glide bait from Bass Pro Shops can attract big bites.

### Hot Spots
Focus on areas with good structure such as points, brush piles, and docks. The Niangua and Glaize arms are always productive, especially around submerged islands and long, sloping points. The mouths of coves and deep flats are also prime areas for catfish and other species. For bass, try the Hurricane Deck area and the lower Niangua, which have shown fair to good bites recently.

### Additional Tips
Make sure to fish around the abundant shad population, as bass tend to congregate where bait is plentiful. Early mornings are crucial, and using heavier line, such as 25lb line, can help land those bigger fish. The lake’s spread-out fish population means you can find success from the fronts of the creeks to the main lake.

With the right lures and a bit of luck, you’re set for a great day at the Lake of the Ozarks. Good fishing

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI