Lake Level: 680.00 (and rising!)
Water Temp: 57 degrees
We have experienced a dramatic rise in the lake level since the heavy rains hit the Ozarks in Oct! The lake has risen over 24 feet, with a heavy current of cold water still pouring in from Table Rock. Once again, we are experiencing abnormal conditions due to flooding which has created a Massive lake! Many of the “go to” spots on upper Bull Shoals are almost unrecognizable with the vast expansion of water. However, you can use this to your advantage when looking for feeding fish. The coves have now trippled in size and are holding shad and other bait fish. For now, trim up that main motor and explore the backs of these coves.
Walleye have been caught by dropping spoons, minnows and night crawlers on drop offs and channels. Early morning bite has been the best this week. Also having good results bottom bouncing Night Crawlers. Go heavy with your weights since there is a swift current do to the rising water. No reports of any Walleye being caught while trolling. Debris in the water has limited most of our trolling friends. (Walleye on Bull Shoals must be 18″ in length to legally keep.)
Black Bass(Line Sides and Spotted) have been caught deep in the coves early morning until early afternoon. Look for schools of shad where fresh water is entering the cove. If the water is clear, try a white spinner bait or a chrome rattle trap. If the water is stained to muddy, throw a chartruse spinner with large blades. Watch the graph while trolling down the middle of the coves. Bass have been sitting deep in the centers and have been caught on 5″ grubs and plastic worms vertical jigging. Remember, try to go with a heavy, weedless rig since you will more than likely be in 15 to 25 ft of brush!
Crappie (no reports since last post) Crappie are hugging deep cover in the coves and bluffs with the rapid rise of Bull Shoals Lake. The majority have been caught on live Minnows. Vertical spooning has produced some good Crappie using a variety of spoons. Try different depths, some have been caught as deep as 25ft. or more.
White Bass are following the shad into the coves. Main lake activity has slowed down. Chrome rattle traps and white spinner baits should do the trick when you see them busting the shad. Try a white or pearl Vibric Rooster Tail as well.
