Exploring new fishing spots can be a thrilling adventure, providing fresh challenges and surprises. Drawing from my tournament angling experience, I’ve learned the excitement of tackling unfamiliar waters. Whether you’re stuck in a fishing rut or just eager for a change of scenery, breaking down new water is invigorating. Here’s how I approached a recent excursion to Goat Rock Lake and tips to help you navigate uncharted fishing territory:
1. Sample as Much as You Can When approaching a new fishing spot, it’s essential to divide it into manageable sections, especially on larger lakes. For smaller lakes like Goat Rock, you can explore the entire water body without the need to trailer between ramps. I typically categorize a lake into three main sections: upriver, river run, and lake. Each area may require a different approach, and fish behavior can vary widely. Sampling the whole lake, or at least a substantial portion of it, ensures you’re more likely to locate active fish.
2. Look for Moving Water Running water is a bass angler’s ally, whether it’s generated by dam turbines, creek rapids, or runoff. Current-rich areas are oxygen-rich and serve as ideal locations for baitfish and bass. Fish are often positioned where they can capitalize on the current to ambush prey. During my trip to Goat Rock, I noticed significant bass activity near the dam’s tailrace, where the current had softened. These fish were primarily smaller bass, but the presence of running water was clear. Keep an eye out for signs of moving water, and it could lead you to success.
3. Fish What Looks Good or Obvious While exploring new water, it’s essential to fish areas that appear promising. Concentrate on the obvious features like rocky points, docks, submerged tree tops, and aquatic vegetation. Even if you don’t find immediate success, frequently, patterns emerge from targeting these visible structures. During my Goat Rock adventure, I experimented with various techniques, from topwater baits to swim jigs, while fishing these apparent spots.
4. Circle Back It’s not uncommon for anglers to start the day with an excellent bite and then move on to find “greener pastures.” However, sometimes the initial hot spot continues to produce. In my case, after exploring different sections of the lake, I returned to the dam’s vicinity, where I had initially found schooling bass. Although the surface activity had subsided, I managed to catch a few more small ones. It’s a valuable lesson: sometimes the best bite is right where you began.
Breaking down new water can be a gratifying and enjoyable experience, akin to solving a puzzle. Whether it’s a massive lake or a smaller reservoir, dividing it into manageable sections can make the task less daunting. Additionally, always keep safety in mind when dealing with currents near dams and follow local regulations. Over time, as you continue to explore unfamiliar waters, your instincts will sharpen, and the puzzle pieces of successful bass fishing will start falling into place.
Images/Source: Wired2Fish
