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Catch 'em at the ramp
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Published: October 15, 2009
Most access areas have ramps with docks that provide ample habitat for fish and a quick route to deep water. Bass and striper tournaments are frequently won by anglers who catch the prize winning fish right at the ramp where the boat was launched.
Pinnacle Access is the busiest, but best launch site on Lake Norman to immediately begin fishing. Save the big engine, just lower the electric motor, and start casting. Largemouth and spotted bass love to hang out around the boulders immediately west and north of the ramp. The rip-rap to the south that runs along the causeway to the Highway 150 Bridge, also attracts lots of legal size tournament bass.
The long 150 Bridge itself, is a magnet for bass, stripers, catfish and crappie. During the late fall and winter months, diving terns and gulls herald the presence of bass and stripers feeding in the main river channel that runs under the bridge On some occasions, the feeding frenzy occurs within casting distance of the bridge. Not to be overlooked, is the skimmer wall on the northwest side of the bridge. It collects bait and game fish when water is moving.
The floating boat docks that surround Midway Marina are another launch area to catch fish. Bass, bream, catfish, crappie and striped bass can be found in the water under the tin roofs that cover the docks. The shade and protection provided by the docks attracts feeder fish and predators alike. Since Midway is the host of numerous tournaments each year, thousands of fish are released at the weigh-in site just behind the Boathouse Grill Restaurant.
McCrary Creek Access, adjacent to Queen's Landing, is another area where anglers can begin to fish immediately. Spotted, largemouth and striped bass run shad through the deep slough that leads to the main river channel. The points on the left bank heading out, and the shoals to the right, should not be overlooked. They attract game fish when boat traffic is light.
Fishing is also good a short boat ride away at the access areas of Stumpy, Little, Ramsey, and Hagers Creeks. Don't overrun the fish. Save fuel and gain valuable fishing time by casting close to the ramp.
Upcoming events:
"How to Use Your New or Old Fish Finder/GPS Unit" to catch stripers, bass and perch. Thursday, Oct. 22, at 6:30 p.m. This free and simplified, 90-minute session will be held at Gander Mountainin Mooresville. Jake Bussolini, the author of various fishing books, will lead this informative session. Additional information is available by calling 704-658-0822.
Tips from Capt. Gus!
Most boat ramps have a deep spot, where the cement meets the lake bottom. The "blow hole" is created by the propeller-wash generated when the boat is being loaded onto the trailer. Bass, cats and other fish frequent these blow holes when launch ramp activity is light.
Hot Spots
Schools of bass and stripers are feeding on the surface in the main river channel between Marker 20 and the Buffalo Shoals Road Bridge, and in Mountain, Reed and Davidson Creeks. White Perch are hitting small, minnows, pieces of worms and various spoons and jigs fished in coves and back creeks.
Water conditions are generally clear. Surface water temperatures are in the mid 70s and the lake level is 97.5 or 2.5 feet below full pond. This week's forecast: A combination of sun and clouds with lots of big ones for those lucky enough to go fishing.
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