How to Fish Belleville Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Belleville Lake

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 11, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Belleville Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-62	Pre-spawn largemouth bass are actively moving from winter areas to warming shallows, staging near spawning areas and feeding aggressively to build energy reserves Fish are relating heavily to shallow cover like laydowns in 55-58 degree water, showing increased feeding activity in muddy conditions	Laydowns and fallen trees in shallow water, especially those near potential spawning flats Secondary points and protected coves with natural cover Shallow areas with good sun exposure, particularly in the numerous coves indicated by the high shoreline development index	Bladed Jigs with craw trailers worked around shallow cover Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting specific pieces of cover Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to shoreline structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small panfish in shallow cover	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	55-65	Bluegill moving into shallow, warmer areas near docks and emerging vegetation, preparing for upcoming spawn Active feeding during early morning hours when water clarity is best, focusing on insect hatches and small invertebrates Fish staging in protected coves and near structure, becoming more aggressive as water temperatures rise	Protected areas between docks with emerging vegetation Shallow coves with early-growing weeds Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep near structure Crappie Dock Shooting for skittish fish under docks Tubes worked slowly around emerging vegetation	Emerging aquatic insects and larvae Small invertebrates near dock structures Recently hatched fry in shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Pre-spawn smallmouth bass are transitioning from winter areas to staging areas near spawning flats, actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish are showing preference for slow-moving presentations along dropoffs, as evidenced by recent fishing success with slow-retrieved baits	Deep dropoffs adjacent to spawning flats, particularly those near the north side of the lake as mentioned in recent reports Main lake humps, especially those with transition areas to deeper water Secondary points with good access to both deep water and potential spawning areas	Drop Shot with slow, subtle movements along dropoffs Ned Rigs worked methodically on humps and transition areas Tubes dragged slowly across bottom structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish congregating near transition areas	Chartreuse Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-58	Pre-spawn walleye are transitioning from winter deep-water haunts to spawning areas, following warming trends and becoming more active Fish are staging near spawning areas but still maintaining access to deeper water, making daily movements between staging and feeding zones Feeding activity increases as water temperatures rise, with peak activity during low-light periods	Secondary points and creek channels leading to spawning flats Dam structure and adjacent deep water access Shallow rock/gravel areas near deep water transitions	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along transitional areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') during active periods Lipless Crankbaits for covering water and locating active fish	Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas Bottom-dwelling insects becoming more active with warming water Small baitfish relating to warming shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	52-65	Pre-spawn striped bass are actively feeding to build energy reserves, following bait schools in transitional areas between winter and spawning grounds Fish are making gradual movements from deeper winter areas to shallower staging areas, particularly active during early morning and evening hours	Main lake points adjacent to deeper water, especially those leading into spawning coves Secondary points with dock structure that concentrate bait Channel swings near spawning flats where depth changes create current breaks	Umbrella Rigs worked through transitional depths to imitate shad schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges and points Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas Yellow Perch moving shallow for their own spawn Bluegill beginning to become more active in warming water	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	48-58	Pre-spawn muskies are transitioning from winter patterns, actively feeding to build energy reserves. They're primarily targeting larger baitfish near staging areas. Fish are becoming more active with warming temperatures, moving from deeper wintering areas to shallower staging locations, particularly around docks and other structures.	Deep dock edges and adjacent drop-offs serving as transitional staging areas Points and irregular shoreline features near deeper water access Woody cover and laydowns in 8-15 foot depth range	Lipless Crankbaits worked with a steady retrieve near structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along dock edges Bladed Jigs retrieved with occasional pauses near cover	Shad schools congregating around structure Striped bass in transitional areas Larger panfish near dock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	55-65	Bass moving into shallow spawning areas (2-4 feet) near hard bottom and cover, particularly in protected coves and bays Males actively guarding nests while females stage on nearby deeper structure between spawning phases Increased aggression and territorial behavior around nesting sites, with fish more likely to strike defensive reactions	Protected shallow bays and coves with hard bottom Areas adjacent to docks with good sun exposure Secondary points leading into spawning pockets	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting visible beds and shoreline cover Wacky Rigs worked slowly around spawning areas Soft Jerkbaits for pre-spawn staging fish	Bluegill and other panfish in shallow areas Small bass fry (post-spawn) Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively moving into shallow spawning areas, particularly near docks and protected coves, with males creating and guarding nests Most active during early morning periods when water clarity is optimal, becoming more defensive and territorial around nests as day progresses	Protected areas between docks in 2-4 feet of water with firm bottom Shallow coves with emerging vegetation Sand or gravel flats adjacent to deeper water	Bobbers with light presentation for spawning bluegill Live Bait Rigs worked slowly around beds Tubes fished delicately around dock areas	Small insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Emerging aquatic insects	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Staging near spawning flats and moving into shallow protected areas as water temperatures rise Males actively guarding nests in 2-6 foot depths on hard bottom areas near points and coves Aggressive territorial behavior, especially around nesting sites	Protected coves with hard bottom and nearby deep water access Main lake points transitioning to spawning flats Shallow dock areas with rock or gravel bottom	Tubes worked slowly along transition areas and spawning flats Ned Rigs for finesse presentations around nesting areas Shakey Heads for working deeper staging areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish in shallow water Young of year shad starting to appear	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-58	Walleye transitioning to spawning areas, moving from winter holding areas to shallow rocky areas and points with mixed gravel/rock substrate Most active during dawn and dusk periods, with increased daytime activity due to moderate turbidity (2.3m Secchi)	Rocky points and shallow gravel areas for spawning activity Transitional areas near deeper winter holding spots Dam structure and associated rocky areas	Live Bait Rigs with slow presentations near bottom Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with methodical lifts and drops Blade Baits worked slowly along transitional areas	Shad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areas Bottom-dwelling insects and crawfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Striped bass are moving into shallower spawning areas, particularly around tributary inflows and gravel/rocky areas Pre-spawn fish staging in adjacent deeper water, making frequent movements between staging and spawning areas Males arrive first and stay longer in spawning areas, while females move in and out quickly	Rocky points and gravel banks near deeper water access Shallow coves with good water flow Dock areas adjacent to spawning flats serving as staging areas	Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Hard Body Swimbaits Umbrella Rigs	Shad schools moving into spawning areas Small sunfish in shallow areas Various minnow species around structure	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	45-58	Muskies are transitioning from winter areas to spawning locations, staging near dock edges and other shallow structures Fish are becoming more active with warming water, showing opportunistic feeding behavior around baitfish concentrations	Deep dock edges and marina structures, particularly near the barge area Points and irregular shoreline features with quick access to deeper water Protected bays with woody cover that warm quickly	Lipless Crankbaits worked at varying speeds along dock edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked parallel to structure Spinnerbaits slow-rolled near shallow cover	Shad congregating around dock structures Panfish moving shallow with warming water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-72	Post-spawn bass are actively recovering and beginning to feed aggressively, transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns Fish are moving between shallow cover and slightly deeper staging areas, often relating to the first break line in 5-7 foot range	Secondary points and flats adjacent to spawning bays Docks and laydowns in 4-8 foot depth range Weed edges developing in 5-7 foot depth range	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along transition areas Spinnerbaits parallel to dock lines and through sparse cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for active fish	Young bluegill and other panfish fry Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters Small shad schools beginning to form	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	62-72	Bluegill are actively feeding on insects near docks and shallow areas following their spawn Fish are most active during early morning when water clarity is best, becoming more selective as boat traffic increases and water clarity decreases	Docks with heavy fry presence, especially during morning hours Shallow weed edges near dock areas Protected coves with developing weed growth	Live Bait Rigs with small insects or worms suspended under bobbers Crappie Dock Shooting with small plastics for dock-oriented fish Tubes worked slowly around dock posts and shade lines	Insects, particularly emerging aquatic insects Small fry and minnows Zooplankton in and around vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy with increased aggression Moving between shallow and mid-depth ranges throughout the day, following baitfish schools and targeting crawfish	Drop-offs and humps adjacent to spawning flats Main lake points with mixed rock and gravel Dock structures with hard bottom areas	Drop Shot with slow, vertical presentations around drop-offs Tubes worked along rock transitions and humps Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for active fish chasing baitfish	Crawfish emerging in shallow to mid-depth ranges Shad and alewives in transitional areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	55-65	Post-spawn walleye are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper feeding zones, actively hunting during low light periods Fish are utilizing wind-driven currents near points and structural elements for feeding opportunities With moderate turbidity, walleye are extending feeding periods beyond traditional dawn/dusk windows	Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays where walleye stage during post-spawn transition Dam structure areas offering current breaks and deeper holding zones Laydown areas near deeper water providing ambush points	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along transition areas from spawning flats to deeper water Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along points and structure during low light periods Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for active fish utilizing wind-driven currents	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-winter patterns Bottom-dwelling insects becoming more active with warming temperatures Small baitfish relating to newly emerging weed growth	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-72	Post-spawn striped bass are actively feeding to recover energy, moving between shallow and mid-depth areas following bait schools Fish are utilizing the complex shoreline and dock structures as ambush points during morning and evening feeding periods In moderate clarity conditions (2.3m Secchi), fish are relying on both sight and lateral line sensing for hunting	Points and coves near deep water access, especially those with dock structures Secondary points with submerged structure in 8-15 feet of water Open water areas where shad schools are present	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along dock lines and points Spinnerbaits in shad patterns around structure during lowlight periods Umbrella Rigs when targeting open water feeding schools	Shad schools beginning their warm-season patterns Various sunfish species around dock structures Young-of-year baitfish emerging in shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	52-65	Post-spawn muskies are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily utilizing dock edges and adjacent deeper water as staging areas Fish are showing increased activity during early morning periods when water clarity is optimal and boat traffic is minimal	Deep dock edges adjacent to spawning bays, especially those with direct access to deeper water Points and irregular shoreline features with woody cover near deeper water Transition areas between shallow spawning bays and main lake structure	Lipless Crankbaits worked along dock edges and through transitional depths Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked parallel to structure at varying depths Spinnerbaits retrieved near surface around shallow cover during low-light periods	Shad concentrating around dock areas Striped bass fry Pre-spawn panfish moving through transition areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	72-85	Active in shaded areas during daylight hours, moving between cover and feeding zones in 3-7ft depth range Feeding patterns concentrated during morning and evening, with fish holding tight to cover during bright midday periods	Docks and laydowns in 3-6ft of water, especially those providing shade Dam areas with irregular structure and dropoffs Tree-lined banks with overhanging cover	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting specific pieces of cover Ned Rigs worked around dock edges and shade lines Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) during active feeding periods	Shad in open water areas near structure Bluegill and other panfish around docks and laydowns	Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	72-82	Bluegill are actively feeding throughout the water column, showing aggressive behavior towards small prey items as evidenced by the frequent catches on tubes Fish are relating strongly to vertical structure like dams and docks, using these areas as feeding stations	Dam areas with vertical structure where recent success has been reported Dock areas providing shade and cover, supported by lake profile data Shallow weed edges in 4-8 foot range where light penetration supports vegetation	Drop Shot with small tubes as validated by recent successful reports Bobbers with suspended baits near vertical structure Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to cover	Small invertebrates around dock and dam structure Aquatic insects in and around vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	68-82	Actively feeding on crawfish around dock structures, particularly during early morning and evening hours Moving between outer dock posts and nearby deep water during midday as boat traffic increases and water clarity changes	Outer dock posts with hard bottom and crawfish populations Points adjacent to dock areas with depth transitions Hard bottom areas between docks with 7-15 foot depth range	Finesse Jigs worked slowly around dock posts Drop Shot with small craw-style baits near dock edges Tubes dragged along hard bottom between docks	Crawfish Shad Alewives	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	65-78	Walleye are transitioning to deeper water during daylight hours due to summer heat, actively feeding during dawn and dusk periods Fish are relating strongly to wind-driven current edges and points, using the moderate turbidity as cover for ambush feeding	Main lake points with access to deep water Dam structure areas with current breaks Deep edges of flats near wind-swept shorelines	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along breaklines and points during low light periods Live Bait Rigs with bottom-bouncing presentations near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are concentrated on specific structure	Shad schools in open water and near structure Bottom-dwelling insects and crawfish near points and rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	68-82	Striped bass actively schooling and chasing shad in open water during early morning and late evening Moving to deeper, cooler water during mid-day hours, typically suspending near structure Actively feeding around dock areas during periods of reduced boat traffic	Deep dock areas with access to open water Main lake points adjacent to deeper water Open water areas where shad schools are present	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with umbrella rigs during early morning Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near suspended fish during midday Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked around dock structures	Shad schools in open water and around structure Smaller baitfish relating to dock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	72-82	Summer muskies will be active in early morning and evening, seeking cooler water and optimal ambush positions near structure During midday heat, fish will suspend near deeper dock edges and woody cover for shade Feeding windows intensify during boat traffic transitions when water clarity changes stir up baitfish	Deep dock edges adjacent to main lake areas Laydown trees and woody cover in 8-15 feet of water Points and irregular shoreline features with quick access to deeper water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Hard Topwater (Walking) Soft Body Swimbaits (Large)	Striped bass in the 8-12 inch range Large shad schools Panfish concentrations near docks	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Belleville Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Bass are actively feeding but becoming more finesse-oriented as waters cool, suspending near structure and showing preference for smaller profile baits Fish are transitioning to their fall patterns, staying close to cover like docks and laydowns while feeding opportunistically	Docks with deep water access, particularly those providing shade Laydowns and woody cover near shoreline transitions Weed edges adjacent to deeper water	Drop Shot with smaller profile baits like cut down soft plastics Shakey Heads worked slowly around structure Ned Rigs for pressured fish in clear water conditions	Smaller baitfish moving in schools Juvenile panfish around structure Crawfish active near woody cover	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegill are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, concentrating around docks and other structure that holds invertebrates Fish are gradually moving to deeper staging areas but still maintain feeding activity in mid-depth zones during warmer parts of the day	Dock areas with 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access Deeper weed edges transitioning to winter holding areas Protected coves with remaining vegetation and structure	Drop Shot with small soft plastics worked slowly around dock posts and edges Tubes worked methodically along structure and bottom transitions Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light jigs during active feeding periods	Small invertebrates and insects around dock structures Tiny crustaceans in remaining vegetation Small minnows and fry in protected areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-68	Actively feeding on baitfish, particularly around points and drop-offs as they follow migrating shad schools Moving between shallow and mid-depth areas throughout the day, following temperature changes and forage movement	Main lake points with access to deep water Drop-offs near shallow flats where baitfish schools congregate Dock areas with hard bottom and deep water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along depth changes to mimic fleeing baitfish Spinnerbaits retrieved at varying speeds around points and dock areas Drop Shot with finesse presentations for pressured fish or during tough conditions	Shad and alewives schooling in open water Crawfish on hard bottom areas Small perch around dock structures	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Walleye	48-62	Walleye are actively feeding to build fat reserves for winter, following baitfish schools and utilizing wind-driven currents for feeding advantages Fish are transitioning to deeper water as temperatures cool, but make frequent moves to shallower feeding zones during low light periods	Main lake points near deep water access, especially those with wind-driven current Deep structural elements near the dam Offshore humps and deep breaks adjacent to flats where baitfish school	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with consistent speed to cover water and target suspended fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are holding tight to structure Blade Baits worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes	Shad schools congregating in deeper water Bottom-dwelling prey such as small perch and shiners Remaining insect populations near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Striped bass are actively migrating and feeding, following bait schools with increased activity around structure Fish are transitioning between summer and winter patterns, utilizing both deep and shallow water depending on bait location	Docks adjacent to deeper water, especially those creating ambush points Main lake points near migration routes Deep water areas near shoreline structures where bait schools congregate	Drop Shot with natural bait presentations Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around structure Umbrella Rigs to mimic bait schools	Shad schools during fall migration Various baitfish species around dock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	52-68	Muskies are exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior to build fat reserves for winter, particularly during low-light periods around dawn and dusk Fish are following baitfish schools around dock structures and points, moving between shallow and mid-depth zones based on daily temperature changes	Deep dock edges adjacent to shallow flats where baitfish concentrate Main lake points with complex structure, especially those near deeper water Shallow bays with remaining vegetation and baitfish schools	Hard Body Swimbaits worked along dock edges and through baitfish schools Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along structural transitions Spinnerbaits near remaining vegetation and around points	Shad schools congregating around docks and points Striped bass in the 8-12 inch range Large panfish relating to dock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	39-45	Bluegill are actively feeding to build fat reserves for winter, showing aggressive behavior toward larger baits than typical Fish are congregating around dock structures that provide both cover and access to winter forage	Deep dock areas with vertical posts providing sanctuary Protected coves with reduced current and stable temperatures Transition areas between shallow flats and deeper wintering holes	Drop Shot with small soft plastics worked slowly Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with micro presentations Tubes worked methodically around dock posts	Small invertebrates around dock structures Tiny crustaceans in protected areas Dormant insects near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Walleye	34-42	Walleye are concentrating on deep winter holding areas near points, utilizing these structures as primary feeding zones Fish are likely schooling in groups near the bottom, making periodic feeding movements to ambush prey	Deep main lake points, especially those with access to deeper water Secondary points with proximity to winter holding areas Deep structural transitions near points where current creates feeding opportunities	Blade Baits worked vertically with controlled lifts and drops Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with methodical presentations Ice Fishing Spoons when fish are less aggressive	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Various minnow species relating to deep structure	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Muskie	38-45	Muskies concentrate near deeper structure, especially dock edges and deeper laydowns, staging for opportunistic feeding during warmer parts of the day Fish become more lethargic but will still feed during stable weather patterns, particularly during mid-afternoon warming trends	Deep dock edges adjacent to primary lake basin Deep wooden structure (laydowns) near points or channel swings Protected bays with remaining baitfish schools	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Blade Baits	Striped Bass Shad schools Large Panfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Bluegill will be concentrated in areas with good food sources and adequate oxygen, typically suspending near dock cribs and other deep structure During midday, fish become more active and may move slightly higher in the water column to feed on small invertebrates	Deep dock areas in 15-25 feet of water, especially those near drops or channels Protected coves with consistent depth and structure Transition areas between shallow flats and deeper water where invertebrates concentrate	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements and short pauses Ice Fishing Spoons with slow flutter presentations Live Bait Rigs tipped with waxworms or euro larvae for finicky fish	Small aquatic invertebrates concentrated around dock structures Dormant insects near bottom structure Tiny crustaceans in and around vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Ice	Walleye	34-39	Walleye concentrate on deep points and structural elements near winter holding areas, following daily feeding windows during low-light periods Fish showing preference for suspending near bottom structure, actively feeding on shad and other baitfish in moderate turbidity conditions	Deep points with access to winter holding areas Dam structure areas with depth variations Deep structural transitions near primary lake basin	Ice Fishing Spoons - work aggressively during prime feeding windows, then slow during neutral periods Blade Baits - vertical presentations near bottom structure Ice Fishing Jigs - tipped with minnows for finesse presentation during tough bites	Shad schools concentrating in deeper water Bottom-dwelling baitfish near structural elements	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Belleville Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns and fallen trees in shallow water, especially those near potential spawning flats	Secondary points and protected coves with natural cover
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected areas between docks with emerging vegetation	Shallow coves with early-growing weeds
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Deep dropoffs adjacent to spawning flats, particularly those near the north side of the lake as mentioned in recent reports	Main lake humps, especially those with transition areas to deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Secondary points and creek channels leading to spawning flats	Dam structure and adjacent deep water access
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points adjacent to deeper water, especially those leading into spawning coves	Secondary points with dock structure that concentrate bait
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Deep dock edges and adjacent drop-offs serving as transitional staging areas	Points and irregular shoreline features near deeper water access
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow bays and coves with hard bottom	Areas adjacent to docks with good sun exposure
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected areas between docks in 2-4 feet of water with firm bottom	Shallow coves with emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected coves with hard bottom and nearby deep water access	Main lake points transitioning to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and shallow gravel areas for spawning activity	Transitional areas near deeper winter holding spots
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Rocky points and gravel banks near deeper water access	Shallow coves with good water flow
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Deep dock edges and marina structures, particularly near the barge area	Points and irregular shoreline features with quick access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points and flats adjacent to spawning bays	Docks and laydowns in 4-8 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks with heavy fry presence, especially during morning hours	Shallow weed edges near dock areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Drop-offs and humps adjacent to spawning flats	Main lake points with mixed rock and gravel
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays where walleye stage during post-spawn transition	Dam structure areas offering current breaks and deeper holding zones
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Points and coves near deep water access, especially those with dock structures	Secondary points with submerged structure in 8-15 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Deep dock edges adjacent to spawning bays, especially those with direct access to deeper water	Points and irregular shoreline features with woody cover near deeper water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Docks and laydowns in 3-6ft of water, especially those providing shade	Dam areas with irregular structure and dropoffs
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Dam areas with vertical structure where recent success has been reported	Dock areas providing shade and cover, supported by lake profile data
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Outer dock posts with hard bottom and crawfish populations	Points adjacent to dock areas with depth transitions
Summer	Walleye	Main lake points with access to deep water	Dam structure areas with current breaks
Summer	Striped Bass	Deep dock areas with access to open water	Main lake points adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Muskie	Deep dock edges adjacent to main lake areas	Laydown trees and woody cover in 8-15 feet of water
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Docks with deep water access, particularly those providing shade	Laydowns and woody cover near shoreline transitions
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Dock areas with 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access	Deeper weed edges transitioning to winter holding areas
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with access to deep water	Drop-offs near shallow flats where baitfish schools congregate
Fall	Walleye	Main lake points near deep water access, especially those with wind-driven current	Deep structural elements near the dam
Fall	Striped Bass	Docks adjacent to deeper water, especially those creating ambush points	Main lake points near migration routes
Fall	Muskie	Deep dock edges adjacent to shallow flats where baitfish concentrate	Main lake points with complex structure, especially those near deeper water
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep dock areas with vertical posts providing sanctuary	Protected coves with reduced current and stable temperatures
Winter	Walleye	Deep main lake points, especially those with access to deeper water	Secondary points with proximity to winter holding areas
Winter	Muskie	Deep dock edges adjacent to primary lake basin	Deep wooden structure (laydowns) near points or channel swings
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep dock areas in 15-25 feet of water, especially those near drops or channels	Protected coves with consistent depth and structure
Ice	Walleye	Deep points with access to winter holding areas	Dam structure areas with depth variations

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small panfish in shallow cover
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Emerging aquatic insects and larvae	Small invertebrates near dock structures
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish congregating near transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas	Bottom-dwelling insects becoming more active with warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas	Yellow Perch moving shallow for their own spawn
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Shad schools congregating around structure	Striped bass in transitional areas
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill and other panfish in shallow areas	Small bass fry (post-spawn)
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish in shallow water
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areas	Bottom-dwelling insects and crawfish
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools moving into spawning areas	Small sunfish in shallow areas
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shad congregating around dock structures	Panfish moving shallow with warming water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Young bluegill and other panfish fry	Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Insects, particularly emerging aquatic insects	Small fry and minnows
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging in shallow to mid-depth ranges	Shad and alewives in transitional areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-winter patterns	Bottom-dwelling insects becoming more active with warming temperatures
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools beginning their warm-season patterns	Various sunfish species around dock structures
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Shad concentrating around dock areas	Striped bass fry
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad in open water areas near structure	Bluegill and other panfish around docks and laydowns
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates around dock and dam structure	Aquatic insects in and around vegetation
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish	Shad
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools in open water and near structure	Bottom-dwelling insects and crawfish near points and rocky areas
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools in open water and around structure	Smaller baitfish relating to dock structures
Summer	Muskie	Striped bass in the 8-12 inch range	Large shad schools
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Smaller baitfish moving in schools	Juvenile panfish around structure
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates and insects around dock structures	Tiny crustaceans in remaining vegetation
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad and alewives schooling in open water	Crawfish on hard bottom areas
Fall	Walleye	Shad schools congregating in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling prey such as small perch and shiners
Fall	Striped Bass	Shad schools during fall migration	Various baitfish species around dock structures
Fall	Muskie	Shad schools congregating around docks and points	Striped bass in the 8-12 inch range
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates around dock structures	Tiny crustaceans in protected areas
Winter	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Various minnow species relating to deep structure
Winter	Muskie	Striped Bass	Shad schools
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic invertebrates concentrated around dock structures	Dormant insects near bottom structure
Ice	Walleye	Shad schools concentrating in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling baitfish near structural elements

Bait Colors by Season for Belleville Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Walleye	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Ice	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals