Water Level: 199.58 | Water Temperature: 42.8˚
Weather: 15˚ | Clear | Winds: 0 mph
1. Striped Bass: Best action remains below the Gaston Dam where anglers are catching 10-15 pound stripers on live shad, bucktails, and deep-diving plugs. Focus trolling near creek mouths and along deep ledges where shad schools are feeding.
2. Largemouth Bass: Slow presentations with dark-colored jig ‘n pig combos and crankbaits in 3-7 feet of water along feeder creeks and steep points in Poplar Creek are producing bites during warmer midday spells.
3. Crappie: Excellent fishing around submerged brush piles and bridge pilings in 8-12 feet of water using live minnows. Look for deeper brush in quieter coves for the best results.
Clear, calm weather and stable water levels are ideal for this time of year, encouraging fish to hold tight to structure but remain active during midday warmth. Patience and slow presentations will pay off, especially for bass. Striper anglers should continue targeting deep water near the dam, following schools of shad and bird activity. Overall, conditions are favorable for consistent winter fishing on Lake Gaston this week.
