Big Bob's Fishing Report

By Bob Stickles-Big Bob’s Bait & Tackle

Crankbaits have been working on bass the last couple of weeks. Windy banks are always better than flat water, but either way crankbaits have been very effective lately.

Most local fishermen use the Storm Wiggle Wart as the crankbait of choice. The pros  used both Rapala and Strike King deep divers and had great success. The Rapala Dt 6, 10 and 16 caught the winning stringer. The Strike King #5 and 6 were highlighted on ESPN when they ran the tape of last week’s tournament. Spinnerbaits are also working as are several creature baits. As you go out this week try throwing your crankbait in the 10 to 14 foot range as many bass have pulled off the bank.

Walleye fishing is improving with quality walleye being caught on worm harnesses and deep diving plugs. Many good walleye are coming from 25 to 30 foot deep. Use a bottom bouncer along with your crankbait to get it deep and to keep it in the strike zone. Catfish have been active on jugs, trotlines and rod and reels. Live bluegill are the best bait, but worms, stink baits and hot dogs will also work.

Big bluegills are being caught on worms or small lures from the surface to about 25 feet. The bigger ones usually come from deeper water.

The Bama Rig should start working very soon. In fact I talked to several anglers who have been catching them on this rig this past week.