Lake Eufaula, Alabama
January 17, 2013

Water Level today 188.47 msl
Water Temperature today 60 degrees
Water clarity – extremely muddy

The river level resembles a window shade lately, thankfully if is remaining higher,even with the fluctuation.In the past 24 hours we had 2 inches of rain North of town and the level went from 188.36 to 188.47, so it is not all leaving. We have had lots of needed rain and the Corps if trying to hold it up more. The crazy weather swings have had the water temperature all over the charts as well, last week the water was in the low 50’s, today it is in the low 60’s, with more changes in store with more cold fronts. These changes keep the fish confused and it is difficult to set patterns. The bass remain mostly deep and due to the muddy water, noisy rattling jigs and deep cranks or large heavy spinner baits are attracting attention. Bumping heavy jigs over wood or rocks will draw a strike.

There is always a positive from every negative situation, that said, even though the river has been dangerously low for so long, it happened during the growing season, I am a retired farmer, all the exposed banks and islands were covered with beneficial vegetation that is now under water. If you paid attention to these areas and they remain under into the spring,they will hold all the bait fish for the game fish to feed on. If the rains continue and we are able to keep the water up, spring fishing is going to be the best in years. We have had some good bass, over eight pounds, reported being caught off the deep ledges over the past month. The game commission reported a huge shad and bass hatch last year, so make plans for your trip to Lake Eufaula, bring your cooler and take some of the smaller fish home for a great, healthy meal.

When the water clears up, the crappie will begin to hit better. They have been on the top of the creek ledges, they just do not do as well when you can see deer tracks i=on the water, but we need all the rain we can get. Trolling minnow tipped jigs will be the trick.

Dress very warm, layers are good, as the sun rises up and the wind drops, you will need to shed some layers. Water is just as important in the cold as the heat and always remember your sunscreen. Come and enjoy the fishing on Lake Eufaula, God has created a beautiful place here to relax and spend time with family and friends.

Please visit www.leekingbenefit.org and register for the June 8,2013 Lee King Tournament. Flight ! is full.

God Bless & Good Fishn’
Capt. Sam