Episodes

  • Excellent Fishing Opportunities on Lake Lanier: Topwater Bass, Schooling Stripers, and Suspended Crappie Await

    Excellent Fishing Opportunities on Lake Lanier: Topwater Bass, Schooling Stripers, and Suspended Crappie Await
    Nov 2 2024
    As of November 2, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is currently about one foot below full pool, and the water temperature has cooled down to the low 70s, which is ideal for this time of year.

    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high in the mid-60s and a low in the mid-50s, making it a comfortable day to be out on the water. Sunrise is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at about 6:00 PM.

    For bass fishing, the top water bite has been particularly good, especially as the day progresses. Look for shad balls over humps and long points, where lures like the Lip Thrasin Riser TKO, Slickstick, Sebile, and Ima Skimmer have been performing well. In sunny conditions, chrome-colored lures are effective, while white or bone-colored lures work better on cloudy days. Additionally, a three-ounce Spot Choker underspin with a three-inch Keitech has been successful for both schooling and suspended fish. Around the docks, the worm or jig bite is also picking up, with green pumpkin or cinnamon pepper colors being the most productive.

    Striper fishing is also heating up as the fish move north to the upper creeks and rivers. Blue backs and gizzards are popular baits, but the abundance of threadfins on the surface is also attracting stripers. Planer boards with weighted and unweighted flat lines have started to produce, and having top water lures like Whopper Ploppers and Mcsticks ready can be rewarding due to the brief but intense surface bites.

    Crappie can be found suspended 10 to 15 feet deep over a 12 to 30 foot bottom. Crappie minnows have been the majority of the bite, and using black and chartreuse or green and chartreuse hair jigs with a slow retrieval has been effective. Setting minnows in rod holders over brush or structure is also a good strategy.

    Hot spots to consider include the upper creeks and rivers for stripers, and areas around humps and long points for bass. The docks, especially those with nearby structure, are also worth a try.

    Remember to wear your life jackets and enjoy the great fishing conditions on Lake Lanier.
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    3 mins
  • Fall Fishing on Lake Lanier: Bass, Stripers, and Crappie Thrive in Ideal Conditions

    Fall Fishing on Lake Lanier: Bass, Stripers, and Crappie Thrive in Ideal Conditions
    Nov 1 2024
    As of November 1, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Water Conditions
    The water temperature on Lake Lanier has cooled down significantly, hovering around the mid-70s, which is ideal for this time of year. The lake level is currently about one foot below full pool. The main lake is clear, while the creeks and rivers have varying degrees of stain.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:30 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trips, especially for those targeting topwater bites.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good, with the bass resuming their normal patterns for this time of year. The topwater bite is getting better each day, particularly over humps and long points where shad balls are present. Chrome-colored lures work well in sunny conditions, while white or bone-colored lures are more effective on cloudy days. The Lip Thrashin Riser, Slickstick, Sebile, and Ima Skimmer have been producing well. For deeper fishing, a three-ounce Spot Choker underspin with a three-inch Keitech or worms and jigs around the docks in green pumpkin or cinnamon pepper colors are effective.

    Striper fishing is also strong, with stripers moving north to the upper creeks and rivers. Using blue backs, gizzards, or threadfins blowing up on the surface can be very effective. Planer boards with weighted and unweighted flat lines, along with topwater baits like Whopper Ploppers and Mcsticks, are recommended. Lead core lines with Berkley Fusion White bucktails or Capt. Mack white chipmunk jigs tipped with chartreuse Shad bodies are also catching big fish.

    Crappie fishing remains good, with crappie suspended 10 to 15 feet deep over 20 to 40-foot bottoms. Crappie minnows and jigs, especially in black and chartreuse or grey on grey combinations, are working well. Using an Acc crappie Stix rod and reel with a 4 to 6-pound test K9 line, along with Garmin Live Scope and Power Pole, is highly recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    For bass, focus on the humps, ledges, and long points, especially where there is structure like brush. The upper creeks and rivers are hot spots for stripers, particularly around areas with schooling shad. For crappie, target the deeper brush in the 20 to 40-foot range.

    ### Tidal Report
    Since Lake Lanier is a freshwater lake, it does not have tidal fluctuations. However, the water level can change due to dam operations, so it's always a good idea to check the current lake level before heading out.

    In summary, with the cooler temperatures and clear water, Lake Lanier is in prime condition for a variety of fish species. Make sure to wear your life jackets and stay hydrated as you enjoy the fall fishing season.
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    3 mins
  • "Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Lanier: Chasing Bass, Stripers, and Crappie"

    "Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Lanier: Chasing Bass, Stripers, and Crappie"
    Oct 31 2024
    As of October 31st, Lake Lanier in Georgia is experiencing a transitional period that makes for some exciting fishing. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Lake Conditions
    The lake level is currently about 1.3 feet below full pool, and the water temperature has cooled down to the low 60s. The main lake is clear, while the creeks and rivers have varying degrees of stain.

    ### Weather and Time
    Today, you can expect a crisp autumn morning with sunrise at around 7:30 AM and sunset at about 6:30 PM. The weather is forecasted to be cool, which should keep the fish active.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good, with the fish feeding up for the winter. The topwater bite is getting better each day, especially over humps, long points, and areas with shad balls. Schooling activity has picked up, but it's scattered, so you need to be quick to cast into the schools before they dive. Lures like the Lip Thrasin Riser, Ima Skimmer, small Gunfish, swimbaits, or Jerkshads have been producing well. On low wind days, the drop shot with Lanier baits like Sweet Rosy and Blue Lily worms around brush and ledges is effective. The worm or jig bite around docks, brush, and blowdowns is also improving, with watermelon green trick worms or brown and chartreuse jigs working well.

    ### Striped Bass
    Stripers are moving into shallower waters, typically less than 30 feet deep. Freelining blueback herring while slowly trolling around points mid-lake can be effective. Planer boards with medium shiners and flat lines have also produced results, especially in areas with plenty of bait. A recent trip to the river channel near the Spanish mansion on the point in Flat Creek yielded three stripers, with the largest almost 14 pounds.

    ### Crappie
    Crappie are getting more active with the cooler weather, suspended 5 to 10 feet deep over 12 to 20 foot bottoms. Crappie minnows and jigs, particularly black and green or green and chartreuse, are working well on open water brush. Using a rod holder with minnows and casting jigs with a slow retrieval is a good strategy.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Humps and Long Points**: These areas are hot for bass, especially where you can find shad balls.
    - **River Channel near Spanish Mansion**: This spot has been productive for stripers, especially with planer boards and medium shiners.
    - **Flat Creek**: Look for areas with plenty of bait and structure for both bass and stripers.

    Remember to stay hydrated, wear your life jackets, and enjoy the fall fishing on Lake Lanier.
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    3 mins
  • Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Lanier: Topwater Bites, Schooling Bass, and Suspended Stripers

    Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Lanier: Topwater Bites, Schooling Bass, and Suspended Stripers
    Oct 27 2024
    As of October 27, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Water Conditions
    The lake is currently about one foot below full pool, with water temperatures in the low 70s, gradually cooling into the mid-60s. The main lake is clear, while the creeks and rivers vary in clarity. The weather forecast indicates a mild day with partial cloud cover, making it ideal for fishing.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:30 PM, giving you a full day to take advantage of the changing light conditions.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good, with the fall patterns setting up nicely. The bass are feeding up for winter, and their activity is increasing as the water cools. Schooling activity has picked up, particularly around humps, flats, and long points where shad are present. Topwater bites are getting better each day, especially with the presence of wind and bait.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a mix of bass species, including spotted bass and largemouth bass. The schooling fish were active but scattered, staying up for short periods. Anglers reported catching several bass using topwater lures like the Lip Thrasin Riser, Ima Skimmer, and small Gunfish. For suspended fish, a three-eighths Spot Choker with a three-inch Keitech worked well when reeled fast through the area.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For topwater fishing, chrome-colored lures in sunny conditions and white or bone-colored lures in cloudy conditions are effective. The Lip Thrasin Riser TKO, Slickstick, Sebile, and Ima Skimmer have been producing well. For suspended fish, a three-ounce Spot Choker underspin with a three-inch Keitech is a good choice. Around docks and brush, a shakey head or jig with watermelon green trick worm or a brown and chartreuse jig have been productive.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Humps and Long Points**: These areas are key for topwater fishing, especially where shad balls are present.
    - **Creek and River Channels**: Schooling activity is improving near the mouths of these channels. Use lures like Zara Spooks, Sammy’s, and Sebile swim baits.
    - **Docks and Brush**: The worm or jig bite is coming back into play here. Focus on green pumpkin or cinnamon pepper color schemes.

    ### Striped Bass and Crappie
    Striped bass are moving into shallower waters, typically less than 30 feet deep, as the water cools. Freelining blueback herring while slowly trolling around mid-lake points is effective. Crappie are suspended 5 to 10 feet deep over 12 to 20 feet of water and can be targeted with crappie minnows or jigs over brush or structure.

    With the cooler weather forecast, the fish should become even more active, making it a great time to get out on Lake Lanier and catch some fish.
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    3 mins
  • "Excellent Fall Fishing on Lake Lanier: Bass, Stripers, and Crappie Abound"

    "Excellent Fall Fishing on Lake Lanier: Bass, Stripers, and Crappie Abound"
    Oct 26 2024
    As of October 26, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some excellent fishing opportunities, despite the transitional phase of the season.

    ### Lake Conditions
    Lake Lanier is currently about 2.1 feet below full pool, with water temperatures in the low 70s. The main lake is clear, while the creeks and rivers vary in clarity, some being slightly stained.

    ### Weather and Time
    Today's weather is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. Sunrise is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:30 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is good, with a strong topwater bite that improves as the day goes on. The bass are actively feeding, especially around humps, long points, and areas with structure. Look for shad balls, as these are key areas where bass are congregating. Chrome-colored lures work well in sunny conditions, while white or bone-colored lures are better for cloudy days. Topwater baits like the Lip Thrasin Riser TKO, Slickstick, Sebile, and Ima Skimmer are performing well. For suspended fish, a three-ounce Spot Choker underspin with a three-inch Keitech is effective. Around docks, green pumpkin or cinnamon pepper-colored worms and jigs are also producing bites.

    ### Striped Bass
    Stripers are moving into shallower waters, typically less than 30 feet deep, as the water cools. Freelining blueback herring while slowly trolling around mid-lake points can be effective. Use your electronics to locate the bait and stripers nearby. Topwater surface bites using Whopper Ploppers or Mcsticks can also be productive, though these fish don't stay up long.

    ### Crappie
    Crappie are moving shallow onto brush and can be targeted with jigs or minnows in depths of 10 to 15 feet over a 12 to 30-foot bottom. Black and chartreuse, or green and chartreuse hair jigs, along with crappie minnows, have been successful.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Humps and Long Points**: These areas, especially those with structure, are hot spots for bass using topwater baits.
    - **Deeper Docks**: Look for bass around deeper docks using green pumpkin or cinnamon pepper-colored worms and jigs.
    - **Mid-Lake Points**: For stripers, focus on mid-lake points while freelining blueback herring or using topwater baits.

    Remember to stay flexible and adjust your tactics based on the changing conditions and fish behavior. It's a great time to be out on Lake Lanier, so grab your gear and enjoy the fall fishing
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Lake Lanier: Exploring Fall Bass, Stripers and Crappie Opportunities

    Fishing Lake Lanier: Exploring Fall Bass, Stripers and Crappie Opportunities
    Oct 25 2024
    As of October 25, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some excellent fishing opportunities despite the transitional fall season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Conditions
    The lake level is currently about 3.5 feet below the full pool of 1,071 feet, and the water temperature is in the low 70s, which is ideal for fall fishing. The main lake is clear, while the creeks and rivers have varying degrees of stain.

    ### Weather and Time
    Today, expect a mild fall day with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. Sunrise is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:45 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to worry about on Lake Lanier, as it is a freshwater lake.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing is particularly good this time of year. Spotted bass are active and can be found in shallow and mid-depth ranges, as well as deeper areas around brush and timber edges. The topwater bite has been outstanding, especially around humps and long points near creek and river channels. Look for schools of shad, as they are a key attractant for bass.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of spotted bass, with some fish weighing up to 4-5 pounds. Striped bass are also active, moving north to the upper creeks and rivers. Crappie are suspended 10-15 feet deep over 12-30 foot bottoms, with crappie minnows and jigs being the most effective baits.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For spotted bass, topwater lures like the Zara Spook, Chug Bug, and Ima Skimmer are working well. Swimbaits such as the Sweet Bait Co. and Lanier Baits Hard Swimmers are also effective. Around docks, a Georgia Jig with a twin-tail trailer or a Senko in green pumpkin or cinnamon pepper colors can produce good results. For striped bass, blue backs and gizzards on planer boards and flat lines are recommended, along with topwater lures like Whopper Ploppers. For crappie, crappie minnows and jigs in black and chartreuse or green and chartreuse colors are the way to go.

    ### Hot Spots
    Focus on areas around humps and long points near creek and river channels for spotted bass. The upper creeks and rivers are good spots for striped bass. For crappie, target areas with brush or structure in the 12-30 foot depth range.

    Overall, it’s a great time to be out on Lake Lanier, with plenty of fish activity and a variety of effective lures and baits to choose from. Stay flexible and adjust your techniques based on the changing conditions, and you should have a successful day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • "Fall Fishing Forecast: Exceptional Opportunities on Georgia's Lake Lanier"

    "Fall Fishing Forecast: Exceptional Opportunities on Georgia's Lake Lanier"
    Oct 24 2024
    As of October 24, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Water Conditions
    The water temperature on Lake Lanier is currently in the low 70s, which is ideal for the fall season. The lake level is about 3.5 feet below the full pool of 1071 feet, and the water clarity is clear, especially in the main lake areas, while the creeks and rivers may be slightly stained.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:45 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing is particularly good right now. The topwater bite is strong, especially over humps and long points where shad balls are present. As the day progresses, the bite tends to get better. For topwater fishing, lures like the Lip Thrasher Ima KO, Slickstick, Sebile, and Ima Skimmer are working well. In sunny conditions, chrome-colored lures are effective, while white or bone-colored lures work better on cloudy days. The worm or jig bite around the docks is also picking up, with green pumpkin and cinnamon pepper colors being successful.

    Striped bass are moving into shallower waters, typically less than 30 feet deep, as the water cools. Freelining blueback herring while slowly trolling around mid-lake points can be very effective. Keep an eye out for schools of schooling stripers using your electronics.

    Crappie are moving shallow onto brush and can be targeted with jigs or minnows in the 10 to 15 feet depth range. Black and chartreuse, as well as green and chartreuse hair jigs, have been producing good results.

    ### Hot Spots
    For bass, focus on the deep end of long points, humps, and ledges in the 30 to 40 feet range. Areas with brush and shad are particularly productive. For striped bass, the upper creeks and rivers are good spots as they move north. For crappie, look for large structure or brushpiles in the 10 to 15 feet depth range.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, topwater lures like the Lip Thrasher Ima KO and Slickstick are excellent. For submerged fishing, a three-ounce Spot Choker underspin with a three-inch Keitech is effective. For crappie, crappie minnows and jigs in black and chartreuse or green and chartreuse are working well. For striped bass, freelining blueback herring and using planer boards with weighted and unweighted flat lines are recommended.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on Lake Lanier, with a variety of fish active and several effective techniques to try. Just remember to wear your life jackets and enjoy the fall fishing season.
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    3 mins
  • "Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Lanier: Bass, Stripers, and Crappie Await"

    "Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Lanier: Bass, Stripers, and Crappie Await"
    Oct 20 2024
    As of October 20, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some exciting fishing opportunities. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Conditions
    The lake level is currently about 3.5 feet below the full pool of 1071, and the water temperature has cooled down to the low 70s. The main lake is clear, while the creeks and rivers are slightly stained.

    ### Weather and Time
    Today, expect a mild fall day with temperatures in the 70s. Sunrise is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 6:45 PM. The weather is mostly cloudy with a gentle breeze, perfect for a day of fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing is particularly good this time of year. The fall topwater bite has already begun, and you can find fish both shallow and in mid-depth ranges. Look for schools of fish around humps and long points, especially near creek and river channels. The bass are starting to move shallower as the water cools, seeking warmer water.

    For stripers, they are transitioning from the Buford Dam area to the upper creeks and channels. Use down lines with blue backs or gizzards in depths of 30 to 90 feet. Trolling lead core with Captain Mack chipmunk jigs is also effective. Keep an eye out for bait schools and be ready to switch spots as the stripers get aggressive.

    Crappie are suspended 10 to 15 feet deep over a 12 to 30 foot bottom. Crappie minnows and jigs in black and chartreuse or green and chartreuse colors are working well. Set minnows over brush or structure and cast jigs with a slow retrieval.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, topwater baits like the Lip Thrashin’ Riser TKO, Whopper Plopper, and Ima Skimmer are excellent choices. In cloudy conditions, use white or bone-colored lures, and in sunny conditions, chrome is the way to go. A three-eights Spot Choker with a three-inch paddle tail is effective for both schooling and suspended fish. Worms in green shades around blow downs and docks are also producing good results.

    For stripers, blue backs and gizzards are the preferred bait. Trolling with lead core and umbrella rigs, and using planer boards with weighted and unweighted flat lines, can also yield good catches.

    For crappie, crappie minnows and jigs in dark colors are the best options. Use a slow retrieval and target areas with brush or structure.

    ### Hot Spots
    Focus on the humps and long points near creek and river channels for bass. The areas around Browns Bridge to the Dam are good for stripers. For crappie, look for standing timber and brush piles in the open water.

    In summary, Lake Lanier is in great shape for fishing right now. With the right lures and bait, and by targeting the right areas, you should have a productive and enjoyable day on the water.
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    3 mins