Falling Water Changes the September Pattern

Rough River has dropped considerably and is now near summer pool, with the lake around 490.3 feet and the surface temperature approximately 87 degrees.

As the water pulled away from the flooded shoreline cover, bass likely moved toward the first available deeper structure.

Early and late, watch for largemouth, spotted bass and hybrids chasing baitfish around open water, points and the mouths of larger coves. Try topwater lures or natural-colored soft-plastic jerkbaits when fish are feeding near the surface.

Once that activity ends, concentrate on main-lake points, channel swings and brush near the first drop. Medium-diving crankbaits, jigs, drop shots and jighead minnows are good choices, with electronics being especially useful for locating baitfish and nearby bass.

Crappie may still be suspended around brush and standing timber near the thermocline. Start in approximately 8–12 feet and keep minnows or small plastic jigs above the fish.