Florida Bass Fishing Forum
Smallmouth, Largemouth, We're All About Bass!

Suggestions for good Southern Bass fishing lakes in the Spring?

From Northern Illinois, we usually go to Arkansas but are going to change it up this spring. We mostly fish for Largemouth Bass and Stripers. Usually go in April or the first week of May at the latest. Kinda want to keep it within 15 hours or so drive time. I've looked into several lakes such as Lake Fork, Tx. Barkley/Kentucky, Ky. Any suggestions would be great.

Public Comments

1. You need to check out Lake Guntersville in Alabama. It's got a lot of huge largemouth in it. Look at the weights from when the pros fished it. For more information you can call Waterfront bait and tackle at 1-256-582-6060. When I've been down there to fish tournaments they marked spots on my map and gave me tips on what the fish were hitting. It looks like a mini Bass Pro Shop in there. They also have a guide service and rent cabins. Cabins are also available at Guntersville state park. There are several boat ramps on the lake so usually no waiting to get in or out. The lake has lots of spotted bass too and giant crappie. I'm not sure about stripers but you can check the web for that. I've been there twice and it's on my list of lakes to hit again.

2. I am not sure of the drive time, but Lake Guntersville is a nice lake that produces some nice bass. There is also Weiss Lake, also produces some very big bass. Both of these lakes are in Alabama. If you choose also in Alabama is the Coosa river, and it has some great fishing in it. If your going to spend a while fishing, then you should try jug fishing as well. It's tons of fun. In Alabama, there are lots of private lakes that you could fish if you just ask. I have had lots and lots of nice big fish from Alabama's waters. Wherever you choose to go, have fun and good luck.

3. Stay at the Floridian Sports Club in Welaka, Florida. http://www.floridiansportsclub.com

The people that own the Club are super-friendly and will cater to every whim you wish.

The fishing is FANTASTIC (It is not uncommon to catch a 10LB PLUS Bass!!) and the food served at the "lodge" is exemplary.

I've stayed at this fishermans resort and it is #1. If you want a taste of "old Florida" fishing, this is the spot!

(Here's an example of how good the fishing is. The Bass Pro Shops Corp uses the FS club exclusively for special guests & VIP's that "want to catch BIG Bass & be treated like kings".)

The good part?

If you decide you want to go in March-May the weather will be warm enough to enjoy your fishing. In fact, most Bass are bedding by Feb-March. Trophy-sized females in shallow water is exactly what you want!

Go check it out.

4. Caney Lake in Chatham, Louisiana home to the state record for largemouth, is Louisiana’s premiere big-bass lake, and has produced the three-largest bass ever caught in the Bayou State.

To catch a big bass at Caney Lake, fish the lake when no one else is fishing there.

nfd?

5. I go to Lake Guntersville I catch big 20,Lb bass