Reservoir Fishing Guide

Reservoir fishing can be a rewarding and peaceful way to enjoy the outdoors while landing some impressive catches. Whether you’re targeting bass, trout, walleye, or catfish, reservoirs offer diverse environments for anglers of all levels. However, these man-made bodies of water come with unique challenges that require a different approach than fishing in natural lakes or rivers. Here’s a guide to get you started and a few expert tips to increase your chances of success.

Understanding Reservoirs

Reservoirs are typically created by damming rivers to store water for drinking, irrigation, or electricity generation. This results in a water body that fluctuates in depth and often has varied underwater structures such as submerged trees, rock formations, and steep drop-offs. These features create ideal habitats for fish, but they also make fishing a bit more complex.

Unlike rivers, where fish are constantly on the move, or lakes with more stable conditions, reservoirs can change dramatically in water level, temperature, and fish behavior depending on the time of year and water management.

Choosing the Right Gear

Rod and Reel: Start with a medium-action rod, which is versatile enough to handle different fish species commonly found in reservoirs. Pair this with a spinning reel for easy casting and smooth retrieval. If you plan on targeting larger fish like bass or walleye, a baitcasting reel may offer better control for heavier lures.

Line: Monofilament line between 8-12 lb. test is a good all-around choice for most reservoir fishing scenarios. If you’re targeting larger game fish or fishing in heavy cover, consider upgrading to braided line for extra strength and sensitivity.

Lures and Baits: The best lures will depend on the fish species you’re after. For bass, consider using soft plastics, crankbaits, or spinnerbaits. Trout anglers should try spinners, spoons, or live bait like worms or minnows. Walleye tend to go for jigs tipped with live bait or crankbaits. Always have a variety of lures on hand to adapt to changing conditions.

Locating Fish in a Reservoir

One of the keys to successful reservoir fishing is understanding where fish are likely to be at different times of the year.

Spring: As the water warms up, fish will often move into shallow areas to spawn. Focus on coves, flats, or areas with submerged vegetation where fish can find cover and food.

Summer: As temperatures rise, fish tend to retreat to deeper, cooler water. Look for them near drop-offs, submerged trees, or rocky points where they can escape the heat and ambush prey.

Fall: Cooler temperatures will bring fish back toward the shallows as they prepare to feed heavily before winter. Target the same shallow coves and vegetation-rich areas that were productive in spring.

Winter: Fish tend to slow down in winter and move to deeper parts of the reservoir. Use slower presentations like jigs or live bait to entice sluggish fish.

Tips for Success

1. Use a Depth Finder or Fish Finder: Reservoirs are known for their dramatic depth changes, making a fish finder invaluable for locating drop-offs, submerged structures, and fish activity. Many modern fish finders also show water temperature, which can help you zero in on the best fishing spots.
2. Follow the Wind: Wind direction can significantly impact fishing in reservoirs. Wind pushes surface water and food toward one side of the reservoir, which can concentrate baitfish and, in turn, predatory fish. Cast your line where the wind meets the shore for better chances.
3. Check Water Levels: Reservoirs often have fluctuating water levels due to water management practices. Lower water levels can expose fish-holding structures like rock piles and submerged trees that might otherwise be hidden. Conversely, higher water levels may push fish into new areas that are typically above the shoreline.
4. Use the Right Presentation: Pay attention to your lure’s presentation. Fish in reservoirs can be picky, especially if they’re used to seeing a lot of fishing pressure. If you’re not getting bites, try changing your retrieve speed or lure size to offer something different.
5. Keep an Eye on the Weather: Barometric pressure changes due to weather fronts can have a big impact on fish activity. Generally, fish tend to feed more before a front moves in and slow down once it passes. Plan your trip to take advantage of these feeding windows.