Shell Knob 4/26-4/28

I had a great trip on the lake again this past weekend. The fishing changed continuously, and I was able to catch fish a number of different ways.

WT: 61 (mornings)--68 (afternoon)

Clarity: 15-18 feet (white jig test)

Average Depth: boat was 20-50 feet depending on technique used

FRIDAY: Based on recent reports, I started on bluff ends with a Keitch 2.8 (Electric Shad or Pro Blue Red Pearl). I placed my boat in 40-50 feet and through parallel and across the point. Counted it down 5-10 and slow steady retrieve. Rod would thump or just load up. Most of the fish were fat Spotted Bass (12-16 inches). I was only catching 2-3 per point. I also caught a bonus 17.5 inch Walleye. I was really hoping to get 2-3 more keeper Walleye for dinner. I also threw a Ned, Neko Rig, and Fluke up shallow. I was able to catch fish, but not as consistent as the deeper fish. Later in the afternoon, I fished one pocket and caught a nice 3lb Smallie up shallow in a white Menace (lost this fish 2 times). Two cast later, I hooked a 3lb Largemouth on a white fluke. I finished the day with another 3lb Largemouth out of another pocket where we have our dock. Overall, it was a fun day.

SATURDAY: Started out with a Redfin, and I caught 3 smaller fish, but it was not getting much interest. I went back to the Keitech and continued to catch fish throughout the morning. When the wind came up, I tried a jerkbait and caught one small fish. I went in for lunch, and had to think of a new plan. I decided to throw on a War Eagle 3/8 oz Spinnerbait with a 3.8 Keitech and fish the windy pockets. Overall, I think it saved my day. In the first, 15 minutes I had 4 fish including a 3lb Largemouth and a nice Smallie. The bite was jarring, and fun. I caught probably 12-15 fish. Late in the afternoon, I went to the back of Mill Creek and threw a Wobblehead with a Red/Watermelon Menace. I hooked 4 fish in a short period including a 3lb Smallie. The day ended really well.

SUNDAY: I went to a point with some deeper cedars and threw a 110 for a bit, and the first fish was a nice healthy Largemouth. It was the only jerkbait fish of the day, but I did miss two other hits. The best fish of the day was a 19" Walleye (went home to a very excited grandmother). The colder temps had an impact on the fishing for me early. Fish seemed less active, and I was not getting as many bites on the Keitech. However, I did catch more fish on the Wobblehead in about 10-15 feet range. I only had a half day to fish, so I can not say how the fishing was the remainder of the day.

Best Pattern: Longer points leading to spawning pockets. Wind blown pockets.

Best baits: 2.8 Keitech, Wobblehead (3/8oz) with a creature bait, 3/8 oz Spinnerbait, and white fluke. I think you can fish the way you want to and still catch fish. This is just what I enjoy. However, be prepared to change techniques with the conditions.

Thank you all for the information, I hope this will help someone have a blessed trip with family and friends in the near future. Tight Lines and All the Best!

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