by Fish the Moment
11/24/2023

In the video titled “Find Bass Fast on New Lakes – Water Clarity Trick,” Jonny from Fish the Moment shares a valuable technique for quickly identifying productive fishing areas in large lakes. He focuses on Grand Lake in Oklahoma during early November, with water temperatures between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, a prime time for fall bass patterns. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his approach and findings:

Key Concept: Water Clarity Mapping

• Tool Used: Jonny utilizes the water clarity map feature in the Deep Dive app.
• Lake Analysis: He analyzes Grand Lake, noting the upper end is stained or dirty, while the lower end is relatively clear.
• Identifying Key Areas: By adjusting the water clarity filter, Jonny identifies a specific area on the lower end of the lake where stained water is present in the back of a creek. This indicates nutrient-rich runoff, attracting baitfish and bass.

Importance of Rapid Water Clarity Transition

• Concentration of Nutrients: The key is finding where water clarity changes dramatically over a short distance (100 to 300 yards). This concentrates nutrients, baitfish, and bass into a small area.
• Unique Zones: Such dramatic changes are rare, making them unique and easier to target.

On-Water Application

• Location: Jonny launches in the identified creek and starts fishing near a bridge, a choke point that could be funneling water into the creek.
• Fishing Success: He quickly catches several bass using various techniques, confirming the effectiveness of his water clarity-based approach.

Fishing Techniques and Observations

• Primary Lure: Jonny uses a deep-diving jerk bait, effective in attracting bass feeding on shad.
• Baitfish Presence: The area is rich in shad, which the bass are actively feeding on.
• LiveScope Usage: While not necessary, Jonny uses LiveScope to illustrate the abundance of bait and bass around the docks.
• Adaptability: He adapts his techniques based on the fish’s behavior, using different lures like Alabama rigs and swimbaits.

Key Takeaways

• Water Clarity as an Indicator: Rapid changes in water clarity can be a strong indicator of productive fishing zones.
• Efficiency: This method allows anglers to quickly narrow down vast areas of a lake to specific, highly productive zones.
• Seasonal Relevance: The technique is particularly effective in the fall when bass follow baitfish into creeks.

Conclusion

Jonny’s strategy of using water clarity changes to locate bass proves highly effective on Grand Lake. By focusing on areas where clear and stained waters intersect, he efficiently finds bass feeding on shad. This approach can be applied to various lakes and conditions, making it a valuable tool for anglers looking to quickly find productive fishing spots.