BIG BOB’S FISHING REPORT by Bob Stickles

Prior to the big rain last week a few white bass were caught on both lakes. The Stump Hole area on Norfork produced a few, as did Gooley Creek on Bull Shoals. Live minnows, sliders and swimming minnows all work well. The rooster tail spinner is also a popular bait for whites. Expect the white bass fishing to improve over the next few weeks and remain strong for the next couple of months.
Bass fishing has been hit-or-miss as water temperature last weekend was around 46 degrees. Jerkbaits worked as well as anything last week, and some jig fish were also caught. The Bama rig should continue to work well through March. The popular minnow bait made in Ava works well on this rig and will be 20 percent off through March.
Crappie fishing remains fair with live minnows, chrome-head jigs and small spoons working. Look for crappie around timbered bluffs and brush piles.
A lot of fresh water is entering our lakes, and this should improve fishing. It will get the walleye moving and on Norfork may get the stripers moving up the river. Need a new spinning rod or reel? Come see us as we have a great selection.

Ozark County Times

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