Esky River Bass: Oct. 2, 2012

[raywriter]

I spent the morning in a treestand, bow in hand, watching, calling, and scenting for deer without result. This afternoon I went out on the river wading for bass. In ninety minutes I caught and released six. Five were between 13 and 16 inches, and one dink. In all cases, I was standing in six to ten inches of water and casting into 12 to 18 inches of water. Very shallow. I used Tiny Torpedos, and rattling Chug Bugs in yellow and chartreuse colors. I have been out about once a week all summer, and the bass are still holding in summer spots. I think the deepest spot I fished all year was three feet. About two weeks ago a friend landed and released a thirty-eight inch pike. Other bonus catches have been a few walleyes and some rainbow and brown trout.

A note about these shallows. Often, I cannot even use a #9 Floating Rapala because they will snag since they still dive about a foot. Lures that stay on the surface during the entire retrieve are often necessary.

The bottom line: There are still some great opportunities out there! Good luck.

[raywriter]

As a follow-up to my report from earlier today, my wife and I went out again from about 6 pm to 7:30 pm and caught another nine bass including two 17 inch fish. Great fighters, a few jumpers, and lots of great memories. That makes fifteen landed and released today with at least another ten fish that hit but were not hooked. Surface lures still best.

[DooFighter]

Great report Ray, thanks a bunch! Good luck on the hunting. It's early.