Outdoorsmen in the Valley are welcoming fall with smiling faces and anticipation of the hunting and fishing opportunities over the next few months. I don’t hunt, but if you are like me, I look forward to hunting season because there’s a lot of empty parking places at the boat ramp. Some days you can even have the river all to yourself.
The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is in pretty good shape. Water levels are stable but just a little on the clear side. Without rain the river will continue to clear up. And in October, you will be dealing with leaves on the water. The shorter days and cooler air temperatures will bring down water temperatures, and with winter just around the corner, bass will be feeding more often.
With that being said, look for bass to push up into shallower water looking for baitfish and forage. Remember, keep your eyes open to the water. If you see baitfish in the area, bass are close by. Now is the time you want to cover a lot of water. Be sure to throw a 3/8 ounce or ½ ounce spinnerbait, or a rattletrap of choice. You can cover a lot of water with these lures. And don’t forget topwater lures such as buzz baits, poppers, or walking baits. I throw top water lures well into November. You better hang on to your rod, the hit can be explosive!
I use the lures just mentioned but my favorite fall lures are the square billed crankbait and a jig with a chunk trailer. I fish these lures around wood cover. Bass like to be around wood cover in the fall. Throw your square bill just past the wood and reel it right through. This should produce some strikes. And then there’s the jig. Try different sizes, 3/8 – ½ ounce. Work in and through wood cover, over each and every branch. They can’t resist it.
So, let’s take time to get on the water in October. The water is getting cooler so wear your life jacket. Be safe and look out for each other.
Do you have assurance, that when you leave this world or on the day of the Lord’s return, you will spend eternity in heaven? The only way this is possible is to invite Jesus into your heart. Believe in him, and believe he is Gods son and that he died on that cross for you. This is a decision we all must come to terms with, and it’s the only way to enter into the promised land.
John 14:6 – Jesus says “ I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me”. This world is too much for us to bare alone. Reach out your hand to Jesus. He is there.
God Bless!
Mike
