Advice For Table Rock Rookie

[libertyfisher]

I will be at Table Rock for a family vacation July 7 -11, staying at Vickery Resort which is near Table Rock State Park. It is only the second time I will have been on the lake (and the other time was way up the James River arm). I know the lake is best known for its bass - but I mostly go for and have the gear for catfish and crappie. I have a 20' Xpress Jon boat w 90hp, so I'll be mobile but not wanting to fight the cabin cruisers to run too far. Any advice or tips wold be very much appreciated. Thanks.

[SKMO]

1) Keep reading the postings between now and then.

2) Go back and read the archives for this time the last couple years.

3) Put together a dropshot rod and read up on the basics.

4) Hire a guide for at least a half day to get some confidence, then go forth and do good.

You have posed a question that has been answered numerous times in the past on this forum, and actually there is no best answer, except #4. A guide is not necessary but will put you on the right track as to the techniques that are working and the type of water to fish.

None are "cheap" but the good ones add untold value to your experience.

(PS: The overwhelming majority of TR guides are in the "Very Good to Great" catagory)

[MOBass]

I would give night night fishing for Crappin a shot in Brushy creek. Take a submersible light, some crappie jigs and minnows, a bucket of KFC and find some brush piles and get comfortable. I prefer jigs, but minnows will probably catch more. It's a great way to beat the heat and big boat traffic.

If you want to get on the bass I would second the use of a guide. A half day will pay for itself in save fuel and frustration. Let's face it we all enjoy catching fish and it is tough to call it a day wearing the white stripe on the back.