Weather Shifts..... Conditions to Impact Smallmouth Behavior
Rain moved in once again throughout the region over the weekend but this time dropped well over an inch to three inches throughout the region. The colder temps were in the western portions of the region but now we should see the temps drop come early Monday morning which could make conditions with winds gusting to 30 mph in some areas.
Expect this shift back to lower and in some areas freezing mornings to lower the water temps again that had actually started to rise a bit last week. The water depth will be influenced with a big changeover happening by Monday into Tuesday as the region absorbs the excess water level from creeks and streams as well as run off.
This shift to rising water levels may trigger the moving bait bite even in December and come Tuesday weather may actually clear a bit in many areas to create a prime opportunity to catch the rising water with a Spinnerbait.
Edwards Ferry to potentially to hit 8 feet:
Monocacy River:
Shenandoah (Millville):
New River - Radford City:
The Region will see Winds ranging from 10 to 30 mph on Monday across most of the mountain, valley and Piedmont ranges of the region.
Smallmouth Bass, like other fish species, can exhibit various behaviors in response to rising water levels caused by rainfall. Their reactions are influenced by factors such as the rate of water level increase, water temperature, and the specific characteristics of the river or lake. Here are some common ways Smallies may react to rising water levels:
Movement to Shallow Areas:
Smallmouth may move to shallower areas near the shore or in the backwaters during rising water levels. Shallow areas provide new feeding opportunities and access to prey that may be displaced by the increased water flow.
Ambush Points:
As water levels rise, bass may position themselves near structures like rocks, submerged logs, or vegetation. These areas serve as ambush points where they can wait for prey to be carried by the current.
Increased Activity:
Rising water levels can trigger increased activity among Smallmouth. The influx of water may bring in new prey items, and the bass may become more opportunistic in feeding.
Current Breaks:
Smallmouth Bass may seek out areas with reduced current, such as eddies or pockets behind rocks and structures. These locations allow them to conserve energy while still being in close proximity to the moving water for feeding opportunities.
Spinnerbaits and Crankbaits:
Fast-moving lures like spinnerbaits and crankbaits can be effective during rising water levels. These lures mimic disoriented prey being washed downstream, enticing aggressive strikes.
Topwater Lures:
Surface lures, especially those that create disturbance and mimic struggling prey, can be effective. Smallies may be more willing to strike at the water's surface when conditions are turbulent.
Adjustment to New Cover:
Rising water levels can create new cover opportunities for Smallmouth. Submerged vegetation, flooded brush, and newly submerged structures become potential hiding spots and feeding areas.
It's important for anglers to adapt their fishing strategies based on the specific conditions caused by rising water levels. Observing the water's clarity, temperature, and the presence of structure can guide lure selection and presentation techniques.
Experimenting with different baits and paying attention to the bass's behavior in response to changing conditions will improve the chances of a successful fishing outing.
Pay particular attention to the areas that may warm up faster.
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