Patoka Lake

It is important to concentrate on cover that is near old roadbeds, foundations and creek channels. The largest bass are typically taken from the 10-to 30-foot depths. Carolina-and Texas-rigged plastic worms are used, with black, purple and pumpkinseed considered the most productive colors. Most anglers select 7-to 10-inch worms on Patoka. When working deep water, it is important to use enough weight to keep the lure in contact with the bottom. Carolina-rigging a 6-inch worm is a dependable presentation. Colors in plastics range from the traditional black, purple, pumpkinseed to a bright chartreuse.Soft jerkbaits, such as Slug O's, Fin-S and Jerk Worms are also effective for taking bass from the shallow shoreline weeds. Concentrate on weed edges that are found along sharp breaks. White and silver are productive colors, again because of the color similarity to shad.

Flipping jigs n' pigs tight to shoreline wood can also produce. An excellent buzzbait bite can develop in March as well as fall. The best action is usually found on wooded flats adjacent to creek channels and roadbeds. A heavy-action rod and 15-to 20-pound test line are needed to work through dense stands of timber and to horse fish from cover.In recent years, jerking a Rogue or Husky Jerk is productive on creek channel or roadbed edges. Locals tend to prefer bright chrome or clown finishes. Rat-L-Traps are popular in spring and summer with silver, blue, red and chrome colors selected by many anglers.If fishing is slow in shallow wood, move to deep cover. The main lake basin was clear-cut before impoundment, but many areas of the lake contain stumps, willows, brush and old foundations. Use a depthfinder to locate cover along creek channels and then mark these areas with buoys before fishing. To work deep cover, use a 5/8-to 3/4-ounce jig tipped with a jumbo pork frog. When fishing is tough - as is often the case during cold front conditions - a Carolina-rigged 4-inch worm, pre-rig worm or lizard has proven effective.The abundance of standing timber and shoreline weed cover can often make fish location difficult during summer and fall.

LARGEMOUTH BASS - In late March and early April, active largemouth bass are found in the upper reaches of Patoka River, Little Patoka River, Lick Fork and Painter Creek. Submerged trees and stumps provide the primary cover. Willow-leaf spinnerbaits in white or chartreuse with copper blades are suggested for locating active fish.