Lake Level: 926.3 ft.

Water Clarity:  Mostly Muddy, to Partially Clear, Upper James to Point 9

Water Temp: 76.9 degrees

 

Bass

The Bass Fishing in the James River has really began to slow down, due to the rising water level and all the rain we are still experiencing. The muddy water had just began to clear in the backend of some of our major creeks; this next round of rain will stop the clearing and return our muddy water.

 

The few fish that are being caught in the upper James River are being taken in flooded brush on dark colored jigs and Ned Rigs (baited with Z-Mann small TRD in pb&J ). Sinko type baits in dark natural colors are taking some isolated fish. Night Crawlers fished around flooded cover with a float have produced a few fish in about 5 to 8 feet of water.

 

In the clearing water near Hideaway Marina to Point 9 and below, some nice bass are being taken, on Ned Riggs and Drop Shot Riggs (baited with live night crawlers) on or near pea gravel flats in about 8 to 12 feet of water.

 

Blue Gill

Blue Gill are still relatively shallow (4 to 10 feet deep) and still will bite live bait, if presented to them. They can be found around shallow docks or standing flooded timber, as the water clears somewhat.

 

Crappie

The crappie are really hard to find and hard to catch any numbers. They are holding to flooded timber or brush in 8 to 12 feet of water. The preferred bait is still minnows of small worms.

 

Walleye (No information)

 

Catfish

A few smaller catfish have been caught in the upper James River where flats meet the river channel points and on gravel flat points. They are on the bottom and have been taken by using cut bait. They are in 5 to 15 feet of water near fallen timber and rocks if present.

 

Note:

Due to the limited amount of fish that are being caught in these very hard fishing conditions in our area of the lake; if conditions change and a better report can be prepared I will write a second report this month and inform you all of my findings.

Cape Fair marina is open, for hours and times please call the dock or the recorded voice message.

 

Note to Friends:  Thanks for your patronage and please wear a life jacket, at all times. This report has been prepared by Don Cooksey for Cape Fair and Hideaway Marinas. Have a Blessed and Safe Day on the water.