courtesy docks @...

[dan hufferd]

I put in at Crabtree and Ruark I think Hawkers and Stockton (RB) all had docks. Really windy, and I could not get a bite. I guess I will have to pay someone like JR to show me how to catch fish. This is starting to affect my self worth. 

[ramman123]

Stockton Lake Guide Service is a great guide service (Bob Bennett)

[dan hufferd]

Thanks I have talked with him a few times at the ramps, he seems like a good guy. I did see a couple really nice walleye that his clients caught this summer. I might have to give him a call, thanks !

[wtr dogs]

Saw a post where Bob is catching fish in warmer weather. Saw pictures from Florida

[dan hufferd]

Thanks FYI Water clarity was 3' north of 215 at Ruark it was 3" but the shad were still thick in the dirty water the gulls were loving it. 

[livingtofish]

I read a lot of the posts but have never submitted one. I have seen from past readings that you have done well walleye fishing during the warmer months and think that your recent success is just lack of experience. Walleye catching during winter on Stockton is difficult but not impossible. I know that the water levels are high but I don't think the fish care. This time of year the fish set up in the same general areas each year and it really doesn't make any difference if it is 15ft high or normal pool. The fish are relating to shad schools and following them around like a bald eagle follows flocks of waterfowl. If you can find the shad they are relating to you have found the big piece of the puzzle. I really don't think you need to hire a guide because you can do it yourself. It just takes some time and experience. I have not caught many walleye there in the winter but I have caught some and they were all related to the shad. I would recommend that you pick out the largest coves on the upper part of the lake and pick the first two channel swings as you go in off the main lake. Then zig zag back and forth across the channel until you see the shad. They might be deep on the bottom or suspended in 40ft but this is were to look and the walleye will be close like right on the bottom. I like to use a jig head and minnow or a crappie spoon fished vertical and very slow just barely moving it, I have fished Stockton for 40 years and the fish set up the same every year you just have to spend some time to find them. On a recent trip I did catch two but it took all day and like I said they were right on the bottom under shad on the crappie spoon. You don't need a guide to show you because it feels better when you do it yourself and from your past trips it seems you have the ability to catch them.

[dan hufferd]

Thank you for your encouragement, yes you are right, it would feel great to brake the code. I just need to slow down and go deeper.

I have much to learn about this lake fishing thing, I really appreciate all the help. I know it represents many hours fished, I do not take it lightly.

I did catch/snag a shad with my spoon last trip, so I must be close.

Thank you very much ! 

[livingtofish]

You are welcome. Just remember don't get too focused on depth. Just remember to look at how the shad are set up each time. Those fish are following them so depth is relative. One time they might be fairly shallow, while next time out they may be deep. Keep an open mind.

[dan hufferd]

I hope to give it a try again this weekend. I can't wait to do a little rethinking. Hopefully we can meet out there sometime.