How to Fish Caesar Creek Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Caesar Creek Lake

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: Mar 24, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Caesar Creek Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	48-58	Pre-spawn bass are transitioning from winter areas to spawning flats, actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish are staging on structure adjacent to spawning areas, making frequent moves between deep and shallow water depending on daily temperature fluctuations	Stumps and woody cover in pre-spawn staging areas Secondary points leading into spawning coves Shallow timber adjacent to deeper water	Bladed Jigs worked around cover Lipless Crankbaits parallel to transition areas Spinnerbaits near shallow wood cover	Crappie in and around cover Shad schools in staging areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	58-68	Bluegill are transitioning to pre-spawn patterns, moving from deeper wintering areas to warmer shallow waters near potential spawning sites Feeding activity increases as water temperatures rise, with fish actively searching for food around structure and cover	Docks in 3-8 feet of water, especially those near spawning flats Brush piles and stumps in protected coves Shallow bays with emerging vegetation	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms suspended under a float Bobbers with light jigs tipped with live bait Micro Crankbaits worked slowly around structure	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small minnows	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	55-65	Pre-spawn crappie are transitioning from deep winter haunts, staging near brush piles and timber in 25-40 feet of water before moving shallow Fish are actively feeding but suspended off structure rather than relating to bottom, requiring precise vertical presentations	Deep brush piles and submerged timber in 25-40 feet of water Suspended areas 10-20 feet off structure Secondary points and creek channels leading to spawning areas	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad Small minnows	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	52-62	White bass actively staging near tributary mouths and moving into creeks as water temperatures rise, showing increased feeding activity in preparation for spawn Fish schooling and aggressively chasing shad in shallow to mid-depth areas, particularly during low-light periods	Tributary mouths and incoming creek channels where pre-spawn staging occurs Main lake points and shallow flats adjacent to deeper water Standing timber and brush piles in 5-15 foot depths near spawning areas	Blade Baits worked vertically through schools of fish Lipless Crankbaits retrieved with steady speed through staging areas Spinnerbaits worked parallel to shorelines and through timber	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas Small baitfish moving into tributary areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Pre-spawn walleye moving from wintering areas to spawning locations, actively feeding during low-light periods and throughout day due to turbid conditions Fish staging near tributary areas and shallow flats adjacent to spawning grounds, becoming increasingly aggressive as water temperatures rise	Rocky points and shallow flats adjacent to deep wintering areas Bridge structures creating current breaks and staging areas Brush piles and laydowns in 8-15 foot depths near spawning areas	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with slow, deliberate presentations Blade Baits worked along bottom contours with short hops Live Bait Rigs with minnows near structure	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas Small baitfish utilizing shallow flats and brush cover	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	45-65	Pre-spawn muskies are beginning to move from winter holding areas to warmer, shallower zones, especially near potential spawning areas with woody cover Fish are becoming more active but still relatively lethargic, preferring slower-moving presentations Feeding activity increases during warming trends and peaks during stable weather patterns	Shallow bays with standing timber and brush piles that warm up first Bridge areas and dam structures where transitional depths are available Areas with laydowns near deeper water access	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along transition areas and near spawning locations Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly around structure Hard Jerkbaits with extended pauses near cover	Shad schools beginning to move shallow Various panfish species near woody cover Young of year baitfish from previous season	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	52-62	Drum are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to shallower pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish are following daily movement patterns between deeper holding areas and shallower feeding zones, particularly active during warmer portions of the day	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water where crawfish are becoming active Bridge pilings and deep structure adjacent to spawning flats Brush piles and standing timber near depth transitions	Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) Football Jigs Carolina Rigs Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small mollusks and aquatic insects Bottom-dwelling baitfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Transitioning from winter deep water haunts to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Moving along migration routes between deep wintering areas and shallow spawning locations, holding on transitional structure	Bridge areas with deep water access and adjacent shallow flats Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water Brush piles and laydowns near primary points	Blade Baits worked with slow, vertical presentations along deep-to-shallow transitions Tubes dragged and hopped around rock structure Jerkbaits worked with long pauses around timber and bridge areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Shad schools suspended near structure Small baitfish relating to timber and brush	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	55-68	Pre-spawn catfish transitioning from winter depths to shallower areas, becoming more active with warming water Fish staging near spawning areas but still focused on feeding, particularly during low-light periods	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water, especially near deeper water access Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to spawning flats Deep water ledges transitioning to shallow flats	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or whole shad Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9')	Shad schools concentrating in pre-spawn areas Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish becoming more active	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	52-62	Spotted bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging, actively feeding while moving from deep winter haunts to shallower pre-spawn areas Fish are becoming more aggressive, feeding heavily on shad to build energy reserves for spawning	Secondary points with access to deeper water, especially those with laydowns or brush piles Steep banks with standing timber in 10-20 foot range Transition areas between deep winter holding areas and spawning flats	Lipless Crankbaits worked along depth transitions Bladed Jigs around visible cover in stained water Shakey Heads worked slowly near brush piles and timber	Shad schools moving into pre-spawn staging areas Crawfish becoming more active in warming water	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Largemouth bass are in spawning mode, moving from pre-spawn staging areas to shallow spawning locations, particularly around docks and rocky areas as confirmed by recent reports Fish showing moderate aggression, willing to strike jigs worked with medium-slow retrieves, indicating defensive spawning behavior	Docks and dock areas, particularly those with rock or gravel bottom Rocky banks and shoreline areas with shallow cover Protected coves with stable spawning temperatures	Finesse Jigs worked with medium-slow retrieve around docks and rocks Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for precise presentations to spawning areas Wacky Rigs for sight fishing and working shallow cover	Crawfish, as evidenced by recent fishing success Shad, as indicated by lake profile showing strong shad population	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively engaging in spawning behavior, with males building and guarding nests in shallow protected areas Concentrated in areas with firm bottom composition and nearby cover for safety Most active during morning and evening hours, particularly in the turbid conditions	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom near docks and brush piles (1-4 feet) Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water with protective cover	Live Bait Rigs with small hooks and light line for natural presentation Bobbers with precise depth control for suspended presentations Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly around cover	Small insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small worms and aquatic invertebrates	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	60-70	Fish are transitioning from deeper pre-spawn areas (25-40 FOW) to shallow spawning zones, staging in 10-20 feet near vertical cover Active feeding patterns during pre-spawn, with fish suspending near structure rather than relating to bottom Becoming increasingly aggressive as water temperatures rise into the 60-70°F range	Shallow coves and protected areas with brush piles and standing timber in 5-15 feet of water Secondary points with woody cover leading into spawning areas Suspended positions around vertical timber in 10-20 foot depths	Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Crappie Dock Shooting	Shad Small Minnows	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	58-68	Actively feeding on shad schools near the dam and spillway areas, showing aggressive chase behavior Spring spawning migration patterns are present, with fish likely moving into tributaries and shallow areas Fish staying relatively shallow due to turbid water conditions (0.7m Secchi depth), using vertical structure to ambush bait	Dam and spillway areas where current concentrates baitfish Tributary mouths and incoming creek channels for spawning runs Standing timber and brush piles in shallow to mid-depth zones	Spoons retrieved steadily through bait schools Spinnerbaits worked along structure and through bait schools Lipless Crankbaits for covering water and triggering reaction strikes	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports Small baitfish congregating near current areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Fish are moving into shallow spawning areas, particularly around rocky or gravel shorelines in 3-10 feet of water Male walleyes stage in pre-spawn areas first, with females moving in as water temperatures approach optimal spawning range Feeding activity is heightened in low-light conditions, but the turbid water (0.7m Secchi) allows for good daytime feeding opportunities	Rocky points and gravel shorelines near deeper water access Shallow bays with firm bottom composition Bridge structures and dam areas where current creates spawning habitat	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Blade Baits hopped vertically near staging areas Jigs (Finesse Hair Jigs) tipped with minnows Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') during active feeding periods	Shad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areas Small minnows in shallow spawning areas Juvenile panfish near brush piles and woody cover	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	48-65	Pre and post-spawn muskies staging in shallow water areas (2-10 feet) near spawning habitat and woody cover Fish becoming more active as water temperatures rise, with peak activity during warming trends Females moving to spawning areas first, followed by males, with post-spawn fish remaining shallow but moving to nearby ambush points	Shallow bays with woody cover and standing timber in 2-8 feet of water Bridge areas and marina structures providing current breaks in spawning areas Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to spawning flats	Spinnerbaits worked slowly around shallow cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves near structure Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses near staging areas	Shallow-oriented shad schools Young of year panfish Smaller fish gathering in spawning areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	58-68	During spring spawn, drum move to shallower rocky areas and riprap between 5-15 feet, often congregating in large groups Increased feeding activity in pre-spawn, with fish targeting crawfish and mollusks around hard-bottom areas Males produce croaking sounds during spawning, making them easier to locate in turbid conditions	Riprap areas near bridges and causeways where water warms quickly Rocky points and shorelines with gradual slopes Brush piles and timber in 8-15 foot depths adjacent to spawning areas	Live Bait Rigs with slow, bottom-dragging presentation Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with heavy jigs for maintaining bottom contact Structure Jigs worked slowly through rocky areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small mollusks and aquatic insects Young of year shad beginning to appear	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Smallmouth bass are moving into spawning areas, staging on adjacent hard-bottom areas and gradually transitioning to shallower waters as temperatures rise Males are establishing and guarding nests in protected areas, while females stage on nearby deeper structure before and after spawning Feeding activity is heightened during pre-spawn, becomes sporadic during spawn, with crawfish and shad being primary forage	Protected rocky or gravel areas near deep water access, particularly around bridge structures Secondary points with mixed rock and wood cover in 5-15 feet of water Shallow brush piles and laydowns adjacent to spawning flats	Tubes worked slowly along rocky areas and transition zones Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for covering water and locating active fish Ned Rigs for pressured fish and clear conditions	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas Small bluegill and perch near spawning areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Catfish moving shallow (5-15 feet) seeking warmer water and spawning locations near hard structure Males becoming territorial and aggressive while guarding nesting sites Feeding activity increasing with warming water, particularly during dawn and dusk periods	Riprap banks and rocky areas in 5-15 foot depth range Shallow brush piles and laydowns near spawning flats Protected coves with hard bottom composition	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live offerings Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around shallow cover	Shad schools in shallow spawning areas Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small sunfish in shallow areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-68	Spotted bass moving into shallow staging areas (5-15 feet) near spawning flats, actively searching for suitable nesting sites around wood cover and matted grass areas Males becoming increasingly aggressive and territorial as they prepare and guard nesting sites, while females move between shallow and slightly deeper transition areas	Protected pockets and coves with abundant laydowns and brush piles in 5-15 foot depth range Secondary points with standing timber leading into spawning pockets Areas where matted grass begins to emerge near woody structure	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover and spawning areas Spinnerbaits worked parallel to shoreline structure Shakey Heads for finesse presentation in clearer pockets	Shad schools moving into shallower areas Crawfish becoming more active in warmer water	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-75	Post-spawn bass are actively recovering and beginning to feed more aggressively, transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns Fish are moving between shallow cover and nearby deeper water, often relating to the first break line off spawning flats	Outside edges of grass mats near deeper water access Standing timber and brush piles in 8-15 feet of water Dock areas adjacent to spawning flats with deep water access	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along grass edges and through timber Spinnerbaits parallel to dock lines and through scattered timber Shakey Heads on deeper breaks near spawning flats	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-spawn patterns Bluegill preparing for spawn in shallow areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegill are actively feeding to recover energy, concentrating around shallow to mid-depth cover in 2-8 feet of water Fish are establishing daily feeding patterns around docks and other structures, with peak activity during morning and evening hours	Marina and state park docks with nearby brush or vegetation Shallow coves with complex structure near deeper water access Protected shoreline areas with multiple docks in 2-8 foot depth range	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly near bottom around dock pilings Bobbers with suspended baits at 2-4 foot depths Crappie Dock Shooting for skittish fish under structures	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans and zooplankton Small worms and bottom-dwelling invertebrates	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	63-70	Post-spawn crappie are actively feeding while suspending 10-20 feet off structure, particularly around standing timber and brush Fish are showing typical suspended feeding patterns, gradually moving to slightly deeper water as temperatures rise	Standing timber and brush piles in 10-20 foot depth range Laydowns near shoreline structures Flooded brush in shallow to mid-depth zones	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Live Bait Rigs	Shad Other Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	58-68	White bass are actively feeding in post-spawn phase, chasing shad schools in shallower water, especially around structural elements that concentrate bait Fish are exhibiting aggressive chase-and-attack behavior, particularly effective with moving baits in the turbid conditions	Boulder fields and rocky areas in shallow water, where recent catches have been reported Areas with current or bait congregation points near the dam Standing timber and brush piles where bait can be corralled	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked with moderate retrieve around structure Spinnerbaits worked near bait schools and structure Lipless Crankbaits in shallow areas with good flash and vibration	Shad schools - primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports Small baitfish concentrations near structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-65	Post-spawn walleye actively feeding to recover energy, primarily during low-light and overcast conditions due to turbid water (0.7m secchi) Fish transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, following shad movements along points and shoreline breaks	Secondary points and shoreline breaks adjacent to spawning areas Bridge structures and dam areas providing current breaks Brush piles and laydowns in 8-15 foot depth range	Blade Baits worked along depth transitions for active fish Live Bait Rigs with leeches or minnows near brush piles Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') during lowlight periods	Shad schools beginning to form in post-spawn period Small panfish in shallow brush areas Crawfish active in rocky areas and around brush	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	58-72	Post-spawn muskies are beginning to recover from the spawn and are gradually becoming more active in feeding. They will be utilizing transitional areas between spawning bays and summer haunts, with a focus on areas where they can ambush prey in the stained water conditions. Fish are moving shallower during low-light periods to hunt, using woody cover and bridge structures as ambush points. The turbid water (2.3' visibility) keeps them in the upper portion of the water column.	Shallow wood cover and brush piles adjacent to spawning bays Bridge structures and current breaks where baitfish concentrate Points and irregular shoreline features with submerged timber	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to wood cover and bridge pilings Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with slow, steady retrieves near structure Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') around points and timber edges	Shad schools beginning to form in post-spawn patterns Various sunfish species in shallow spawning areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	58-68	Drum are actively feeding post-spawn, focusing on bottom-dwelling prey in moderately deep water (15-25 feet) Fish are utilizing their sensitive lateral line system to locate prey in the turbid conditions, particularly around hard structure	Rock piles and rip rap in 15-25 foot depth range Bridge pilings and deep structure with current breaks Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Structure Jigs Live Bait Rigs	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy Mollusks and aquatic insects Small bottom-dwelling fish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	62-72	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, focusing on shallow to mid-depth structure with easy access to deeper water Fish are transitioning between spawning areas and summer haunts, often relating to hard structure and ambush points Due to the turbid water (0.7m Secchi), fish are relying more on lateral line sensation and relating tightly to physical structure	Bridge areas with adjacent deep water access Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water Brush piles and laydowns near points and channel swings	Spinnerbaits worked along timber and bridge structure Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged through rock piles and brush Lipless Crankbaits around shad schools near structure	Shad schools gathering near structure Crawfish active in rocky areas Small bluegill around brush and timber	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	62-75	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding and recovering energy, moving from spawning areas near rip rap and rocky structures to feeding zones Fish are becoming more active with warming water temperatures, transitioning to more aggressive feeding patterns	Deep water areas adjacent to spawning sites with timber or brush piles (15-25 feet) Rocky points and rip rap areas transitioning to deeper water Brush piles and standing timber in 10-20 foot depths	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around timber and brush piles Bottom presentations with Texas Rigs (Worming) near rocky areas	Shad schools beginning to concentrate in warming waters Bottom-dwelling prey such as crawfish near rocky structures Small sunfish around brush piles and timber	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	62-72	Post-spawn spotted bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are utilizing wood cover and points as staging areas, making frequent movements between shallow and moderate depths	Secondary points with access to deeper water and abundant wood cover Laydowns and brush piles in 8-15 foot depth range Areas where emerging grass meets timber or other hard structure	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically around cover Shakey Heads worked slowly along bottom near wood structure Spinnerbaits parallel to timber in low light conditions	Shad schools beginning to group up in creek arms Bluegill moving shallow for their spawn Crawfish active in and around wood cover	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	75-85	Largemouth bass are holding tight to thick cover during summer heat, showing very subtle feeding behavior with extremely light bites Fish are primarily ambush feeding from dense cover like laydowns and matted grass edges, conserving energy in the warm conditions	Thick matted grass edges and pockets Laydowns and logs, especially those in or adjacent to deeper water Dense woody cover providing shade and ambush points	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting the thickest cover Hard Body Swimbaits worked slowly along cover edges Lipless Crankbaits retrieved along grass edges	Shad - primary forage based on recent reports Bluegill - typically abundant around summer cover	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	72-85	Actively feeding around structure in shallower waters due to turbid conditions (2.3ft visibility), utilizing brush piles, stumps, and rock piles as feeding stations Post-spawn pattern with fish gathering around cover for protection while maintaining access to feeding areas	Brush piles in shallow to moderate depth, especially during wind conditions Stump fields providing cover and ambush points Rock piles offering structure and feeding opportunities	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly near structure, allowing bait to settle naturally Bobbers suspended over structure for precise presentation	Small insects and larvae around structure Small crustaceans in and around brush piles and rocks	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Crappie	72-85	Crappie are suspending near deep brush piles and standing timber to escape summer heat, typically holding at depths of 15-25 feet during daylight hours Fish become more active during dawn and dusk periods, moving slightly shallower to feed around the edges of cover Schools are tightly grouped around structure during the day, dispersing somewhat during feeding periods	Deep brush piles and standing timber in 15-25 FOW Suspended areas near creek channel bends with adjacent cover Deeper dock areas with artificial brush or structure	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling	Shad schools suspending near structure Small minnows relating to brush piles Young-of-year baitfish beginning to school	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	White Bass	72-85	Actively schooling and chasing shad in open water and around structure, most active during early morning and evening hours Suspending near vertical structure during midday, moving up to feed on bait schools when opportunity presents	Standing timber and brush piles where bait schools congregate Dam structure and adjacent areas with current Main lake points with access to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around bait schools and structure Spinnerbaits worked parallel to structure and through bait schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for imitating shad	Shad schools in upper water column Small baitfish relating to structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Summer	Walleye	67-75	Walleye are holding in deep water near brush piles during summer warmth, suspending near bottom in cooler water Active feeding during daylight hours due to very turbid conditions (2.3ft visibility), particularly near structure	Deep brush piles and woody structure in 15-25ft of water Dam area and bridge structures with current breaks Ledges and deep drops near main lake points	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along deep structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near brush piles Live Bait Rigs with bottom bouncing presentation	Shad - primary forage base in the lake Insects - noted in recent catches Small fish relating to brush piles	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Muskie	69-83	Actively hunting baitfish schools in turbid water conditions, particularly around structural elements that concentrate prey Showing aggressive feeding behavior in warm water temperatures (69-83°F), especially during low light periods	Bridge areas and dam structures with current breaks and concentrated baitfish Shallow zones with woody cover and brush piles acting as ambush points Areas with active shad schools in 6-8 foot depth range	Trolling Shallow (0-9') with large profile baits Hard Jerkbaits worked in 6-8 foot range around baitfish schools Spinnerbaits worked near structure in turbid water	Shad - primary forage base currently Minnows - particularly around structure and current areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Summer	Drum	75-83	Actively feeding near bottom structure in 20-40 foot depths during daytime, moving shallower during low light periods Utilizing lateral line and barbels to locate prey in turbid conditions, particularly around hard structure	Deep brush piles and standing timber in 20-40 foot range Rock piles and riprap areas, especially near bridges Transitional areas between shallow and deep structure	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Structure Jigs Football Jigs	Crayfish around rocky structure and brush Mollusks on hard bottom areas Small bottom-dwelling fish near structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-83	During summer, smallmouth bass are actively feeding but will shift deeper during bright midday periods, with peak activity during dawn and dusk. In the turbid conditions (0.7m clarity), they'll relate heavily to physical structure rather than sight-feeding Fish are utilizing both shad and crawfish as primary forage, positioning near hard structure and timber for ambush opportunities	Bridge areas with deep water access, especially where current or structure creates ambush points Rock piles and rip rap in 15-25 foot depth range Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to deeper water	Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along bridge pilings and deep structure Football Jigs dragged through rock piles and hard bottom areas Drop Shot near vertical structure and brush piles	Shad schools suspending near structure Crawfish in rocky areas and around bridge riprap	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Summer	Catfish	68-83	Catfish are in peak feeding activity with warm summer temperatures, actively feeding during dawn, dusk, and nighttime periods Fish are utilizing both shallow and deep water areas, moving between depths based on time of day and feeding opportunities	Deep water structures and ledges in 25-40 feet of water, especially near brush piles and timber Rocky areas and rip rap, particularly during evening transitions Main lake points and channel edges adjacent to shallow flats	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or whole shad Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure Bobbers for shallow water night fishing	Shad schools Bottom-dwelling prey (crawfish, smaller fish)	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Spotted Bass	75-85	Spotted bass are holding tight to deeper laydowns in 20' water, actively feeding on shad while using woody cover as ambush points Fish are establishing consistent summer patterns, taking advantage of both reaction strikes and finesse presentations depending on time of day	Laydowns and brush piles in 15-25 foot depth range Deep points with standing timber Matted grass edges adjacent to deeper water	Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) parallel to deep laydowns Drop Shot around vertical wood structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for working matted grass	Shad schools around woody structure Bluegill in and around matted grass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Caesar Creek Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Bass are actively feeding on shad, following baitfish schools and relating to depth changes and structure Fish are displaying aggressive chase behavior, especially during afternoon hours when positioned on ledges and near timber	Steep ledges and drop-offs where bass are staging to ambush baitfish Standing timber areas, especially those adjacent to deeper water Points and channel swings with quick access to multiple depth ranges	Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along ledges and depth transitions Spinnerbaits yo-yoed through standing timber Bladed Jigs worked around baitfish schools	Shad - primary forage based on recent reports and lake profile Other baitfish species gathering in schools	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegill transitioning to deeper structure as water cools, forming loose schools around brush piles and docks Feeding patterns become more concentrated during mid-day hours when water temperatures are highest Fish actively foraging on remaining insects and small crustaceans near structure	Brush piles and stumps in 8-15 foot range Deep dock edges with vertical posts Protected coves with remaining vegetation	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms suspended near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with micro jigs around dock posts Ice Fishing Jigs worked horizontally through brush piles	Small insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small minnows	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	Crappie	55-68	Crappie are actively schooling and feeding on baitfish, following shad schools as they migrate to creek arms and coves Fish are suspending near vertical structure at varying depths, typically 10-20 feet, adjusting depth based on baitfish location and light conditions	Standing timber and brush piles in 12-25 feet of water near creek channels Deep coves with abundant woody cover Main lake points adjacent to deeper water	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) - effective for covering water and finding active schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') - precise presentation around timber and brush Hover/Mid-Strolling - excellent for suspended fish near structure	Shad schools migrating to creeks and coves Small minnows relating to woody cover	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	White Bass	58-72	White bass actively chasing and corralling shad schools in fall feeding patterns, especially evident around standing timber and dam areas Fish are likely to stay in shallower water due to the turbid conditions (0.7m Secchi depth), making them more aggressive on flash/vibration baits	Areas near the dam where baitfish schools concentrate Standing timber and brush piles where white bass corral bait Current-influenced areas near the spillway	Spinnerbaits with flash and vibration for the turbid conditions Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) on jig heads for a more subtle approach Blade Baits for vertical presentations around bait schools	Shad schools - primary forage base according to multiple reports Minnows - mentioned in recent fishing reports	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Walleye	52-68	Actively feeding on shad schools as they migrate to shallower creek arms and coves due to cooling temperatures Moving between deep structure and shallower feeding zones, particularly during low-light periods Utilizing woody cover and brush piles as ambush points in turbid conditions	Creek arm transitions where shad are migrating Brush piles and standing timber in 8-15 foot depth range Bridge structures and dam areas with current breaks	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked along timber edges Blade Baits for vertical presentations near brush piles Lipless Crankbaits for covering water when chasing shad schools	Shad schools migrating to shallower water Small panfish relating to brush piles	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Fall	Muskie	52-68	Actively feeding on shad near structural elements, particularly bridge areas and rip rap, with increased aggression due to falling temperatures Utilizing ambush points near current breaks and man-made structures where baitfish concentrate	Bridge areas with adjacent rip rap and rocky structure Major structural elements creating current breaks where baitfish concentrate Shallow woody cover near deep water access	Spinnerbaits worked along rip rap and bridge structures Hard Jerkbaits worked with longer pauses near baitfish schools Large Soft Body Swimbaits targeting suspended fish near structure	Shad schools concentrated near structure Various baitfish utilizing bridge areas as cover	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Drum	55-68	Freshwater drum are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, focusing on bottom-dwelling prey like crayfish and mollusks in deeper water Fish are transitioning to deeper structure (20-40 feet) as water temperatures cool, using their sensitive lateral line to locate prey in the turbid conditions	Deep rock piles and bridge pilings in 20-40 foot range Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to deeper water Hard bottom areas with mussel beds near channel edges	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Football Jigs Blade Baits	Crayfish Mollusks Small Bottom-dwelling Fish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-68	Actively feeding on shad and crawfish around woody structure, using laydowns as ambush points Moving between deep and shallow water as temperatures fluctuate, with increased activity during stable weather	Laydowns and woody structure, particularly those near deeper water Bridge areas with access to deep water staging areas Rock piles and riprap transitions	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) worked slowly around laydowns Football Jigs dragged near deep structure Drop Shot for suspended fish near bridge areas	Shad schools congregating in creek arms and near structure Crawfish utilizing woody cover and rock structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Catfish	55-72	Aggressively feeding on shad schools as they migrate to deeper water, increasing activity in preparation for winter Moving between deep structure and shallow flats following bait, with peak feeding during low-light periods	Deep water structures and ledges in 25-40 feet of water where shad are schooling Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to deeper water Rocky points and rip rap areas with access to deep water	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad near structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along ledges and deep structure Trolling Deep (20'+) to cover water and locate active fish	Shad schools congregating in deeper water Bottom-dwelling prey such as crawfish and small sunfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Spotted Bass	58-72	Actively feeding in preparation for winter, following shad schools into shallow coves and around woody structure Transitioning between shallow and deep water throughout the day, utilizing standing timber as migration routes	Secondary points with laydowns and brush piles in 10-20 foot range Shallow coves with matted grass and woody debris Standing timber adjacent to deep water access	Lipless Crankbaits worked through grass edges and over brush Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') parallel to timber lines Spinnerbaits around laydowns and brush in low light Drop Shot when fish are holding tight to deeper structure	Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depth zones Bluegill relating to remaining vegetation Crawfish active near woody structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	47-52	Bass are suspending near deep timber and ledges adjacent to deep water, following shad schools and moving with warming/cooling trends Fish becoming more active during warming trends, moving up in the water column when temperatures rise into the low 50s	Standing timber in 20 FOW adjacent to 40 FOW drop-offs Deep ledges and bridge pilings near deep holes Rock piles in deeper water	Hard Jerkbaits worked with twitches (not herbs), especially deeper diving models Blade Baits yo-yo'd off the bottom in deep holes Umbrella Rigs around bridge pilings and timber	Shad schools suspended in the water column Minnows relating to bottom structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	42-52	Concentrating in deeper areas near structure, with active feeding periods during stable weather Suspending near bottom in depths of 12-20 feet, moving between structure and adjacent open water	Deep brush piles and stump fields adjacent to creek channels Deep dock areas with vertical posts providing cover Deep water points with rock or wood structure	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Ice Fishing Jigs	Small aquatic insects Zooplankton Small minnows	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Crappie are holding tight to deep standing timber in 12+ feet of water, exhibiting typical winter concentration patterns Fish are showing less aggressive feeding behavior, requiring slower presentations with minimal movement	Standing timber in 12-25 feet of water Deep brush piles adjacent to creek channels Deeper sections of stump fields	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling	Minnows Small shad	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	White Bass	42-52	White bass school tightly in deeper water near vertical structure, following and feeding on concentrated shad schools More lethargic feeding patterns during cold water periods, but will still actively chase prey when encountered Fish tend to hold closer to bottom structure during winter, moving up in the water column to feed on passing bait schools	Deep areas near dam structure where bait schools concentrate Standing timber edges in deeper water Deep brush piles adjacent to channel edges	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Spoons	Schooling shad concentrated in deeper water Small baitfish suspended near structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	47-52	Walleye are actively feeding in low-light periods, taking advantage of the turbid water conditions (0.7m Secchi) which allows for extended daylight feeding opportunities Fish are relating heavily to deep structure like brush piles and bridge areas, using these as ambush points to feed on shad schools	Deep brush piles and standing timber near structural breaks Bridge structures and dam areas providing current breaks Deep ledges and drop-offs adjacent to shallower flats	Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended fish Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure Live Bait Rigs with minnows near bottom structure	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Small panfish relating to brush piles	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Muskie	38-45	Muskies concentrate in deeper water (20-40 feet) following large schools of shad, primarily near major structural elements like bridge areas and the dam Fish are less active but will feed opportunistically during stable weather patterns, especially during prime feeding windows in early morning or late afternoon	Deep bridge areas and dam structure in 20-40 feet of water where current breaks concentrate baitfish Deep standing timber and brush piles adjacent to channel edges Marina areas with deep water access and structure that holds winter baitfish	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with large soft plastics worked slowly near structure Trolling Deep (20'+) along edges of deep structure and through baitfish schools Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended baitfish schools	Large schools of winter-pattern shad concentrated in deeper water Various suspended baitfish relating to deep structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Winter	Drum	47-55	Drum are schooling in deeper water near bottom structure, particularly around bridge pilings and rock piles in 20-40 foot depths Feeding activity is reduced but steady, with fish relying heavily on lateral line sensing in the turbid conditions to locate prey	Deep bridge pilings and adjacent rock structure in 20-40 foot range Deep brush piles and standing timber near channel edges Rock piles and hard bottom areas in deeper water	Blade Baits worked vertically with slow lifts and drops Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigs Live Bait Rigs with crawlers or cut bait	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and mollusks Inactive or sluggish crawfish Small bottom-hugging baitfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	42-52	Smallmouth bass concentrate near deep water structure and bridge areas, primarily suspending near depth changes in 20+ feet of water Fish become less aggressive but will actively feed during stable weather periods, especially during warmer parts of the day Schools of fish group up more tightly in winter, following shad schools in deeper water	Deep bridge pilings adjacent to channel breaks Standing timber in 20+ feet of water Deep rock piles and ledges near primary points	Blade Baits worked vertically with slow lifts and drops Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with methodical presentations Damiki Rig for suspended fish around structure	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Smaller baitfish relating to deep structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Catfish	47-52	Catfish become less active and congregate in deeper, stable temperature areas (25-40 FOW), typically moving slower and feeding less frequently but still opportunistically Fish tend to school more tightly in winter, often holding near bottom structure and deep ledges where water temperature remains more consistent	Deep water structures and ledges in 25-40 feet of water, especially near channel bends Deep brush piles and standing timber in main lake areas Areas where deep water meets significant structure like rock piles	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Structure Jigs	Winter-stressed shad, particularly in deeper water Bottom-dwelling prey like small fish and crustaceans	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	45-52	Spotted bass are suspending near deep structure with quick access to shallower feeding zones, typically in the 15-25 foot range Fish are grouped up and relating heavily to vertical cover like standing timber and steep laydowns, making shorter movements to feed during warming trends	Standing timber edges near deep water access points in 20-40 foot range Steep banks with laydowns that extend into deeper water Main lake points with vertical structure providing quick depth transitions	Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended fish Drop Shot with small profile baits near vertical cover Spybaits worked slowly through suspended fish	Suspended shad schools in 15-25 foot range Small baitfish relating to timber edges	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Caesar Creek Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Stumps and woody cover in pre-spawn staging areas	Secondary points leading into spawning coves
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks in 3-8 feet of water, especially those near spawning flats	Brush piles and stumps in protected coves
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Deep brush piles and submerged timber in 25-40 feet of water	Suspended areas 10-20 feet off structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Tributary mouths and incoming creek channels where pre-spawn staging occurs	Main lake points and shallow flats adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and shallow flats adjacent to deep wintering areas	Bridge structures creating current breaks and staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with standing timber and brush piles that warm up first	Bridge areas and dam structures where transitional depths are available
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water where crawfish are becoming active	Bridge pilings and deep structure adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bridge areas with deep water access and adjacent shallow flats	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water, especially near deeper water access	Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Secondary points with access to deeper water, especially those with laydowns or brush piles	Steep banks with standing timber in 10-20 foot range
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks and dock areas, particularly those with rock or gravel bottom	Rocky banks and shoreline areas with shallow cover
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom near docks and brush piles (1-4 feet)	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shallow coves and protected areas with brush piles and standing timber in 5-15 feet of water	Secondary points with woody cover leading into spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Dam and spillway areas where current concentrates baitfish	Tributary mouths and incoming creek channels for spawning runs
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and gravel shorelines near deeper water access	Shallow bays with firm bottom composition
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with woody cover and standing timber in 2-8 feet of water	Bridge areas and marina structures providing current breaks in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Riprap areas near bridges and causeways where water warms quickly	Rocky points and shorelines with gradual slopes
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected rocky or gravel areas near deep water access, particularly around bridge structures	Secondary points with mixed rock and wood cover in 5-15 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Riprap banks and rocky areas in 5-15 foot depth range	Shallow brush piles and laydowns near spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Protected pockets and coves with abundant laydowns and brush piles in 5-15 foot depth range	Secondary points with standing timber leading into spawning pockets
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Outside edges of grass mats near deeper water access	Standing timber and brush piles in 8-15 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Marina and state park docks with nearby brush or vegetation	Shallow coves with complex structure near deeper water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Standing timber and brush piles in 10-20 foot depth range	Laydowns near shoreline structures
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Boulder fields and rocky areas in shallow water, where recent catches have been reported	Areas with current or bait congregation points near the dam
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Secondary points and shoreline breaks adjacent to spawning areas	Bridge structures and dam areas providing current breaks
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow wood cover and brush piles adjacent to spawning bays	Bridge structures and current breaks where baitfish concentrate
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Rock piles and rip rap in 15-25 foot depth range	Bridge pilings and deep structure with current breaks
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bridge areas with adjacent deep water access	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Deep water areas adjacent to spawning sites with timber or brush piles (15-25 feet)	Rocky points and rip rap areas transitioning to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Secondary points with access to deeper water and abundant wood cover	Laydowns and brush piles in 8-15 foot depth range
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Thick matted grass edges and pockets	Laydowns and logs, especially those in or adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Brush piles in shallow to moderate depth, especially during wind conditions	Stump fields providing cover and ambush points
Summer	Crappie	Deep brush piles and standing timber in 15-25 FOW	Suspended areas near creek channel bends with adjacent cover
Summer	White Bass	Standing timber and brush piles where bait schools congregate	Dam structure and adjacent areas with current
Summer	Walleye	Deep brush piles and woody structure in 15-25ft of water	Dam area and bridge structures with current breaks
Summer	Muskie	Bridge areas and dam structures with current breaks and concentrated baitfish	Shallow zones with woody cover and brush piles acting as ambush points
Summer	Drum	Deep brush piles and standing timber in 20-40 foot range	Rock piles and riprap areas, especially near bridges
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Bridge areas with deep water access, especially where current or structure creates ambush points	Rock piles and rip rap in 15-25 foot depth range
Summer	Catfish	Deep water structures and ledges in 25-40 feet of water, especially near brush piles and timber	Rocky areas and rip rap, particularly during evening transitions
Summer	Spotted Bass	Laydowns and brush piles in 15-25 foot depth range	Deep points with standing timber
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Steep ledges and drop-offs where bass are staging to ambush baitfish	Standing timber areas, especially those adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Brush piles and stumps in 8-15 foot range	Deep dock edges with vertical posts
Fall	Crappie	Standing timber and brush piles in 12-25 feet of water near creek channels	Deep coves with abundant woody cover
Fall	White Bass	Areas near the dam where baitfish schools concentrate	Standing timber and brush piles where white bass corral bait
Fall	Walleye	Creek arm transitions where shad are migrating	Brush piles and standing timber in 8-15 foot depth range
Fall	Muskie	Bridge areas with adjacent rip rap and rocky structure	Major structural elements creating current breaks where baitfish concentrate
Fall	Drum	Deep rock piles and bridge pilings in 20-40 foot range	Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Laydowns and woody structure, particularly those near deeper water	Bridge areas with access to deep water staging areas
Fall	Catfish	Deep water structures and ledges in 25-40 feet of water where shad are schooling	Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Spotted Bass	Secondary points with laydowns and brush piles in 10-20 foot range	Shallow coves with matted grass and woody debris
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Standing timber in 20 FOW adjacent to 40 FOW drop-offs	Deep ledges and bridge pilings near deep holes
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep brush piles and stump fields adjacent to creek channels	Deep dock areas with vertical posts providing cover
Winter	Crappie	Standing timber in 12-25 feet of water	Deep brush piles adjacent to creek channels
Winter	White Bass	Deep areas near dam structure where bait schools concentrate	Standing timber edges in deeper water
Winter	Walleye	Deep brush piles and standing timber near structural breaks	Bridge structures and dam areas providing current breaks
Winter	Muskie	Deep bridge areas and dam structure in 20-40 feet of water where current breaks concentrate baitfish	Deep standing timber and brush piles adjacent to channel edges
Winter	Drum	Deep bridge pilings and adjacent rock structure in 20-40 foot range	Deep brush piles and standing timber near channel edges
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep bridge pilings adjacent to channel breaks	Standing timber in 20+ feet of water
Winter	Catfish	Deep water structures and ledges in 25-40 feet of water, especially near channel bends	Deep brush piles and standing timber in main lake areas
Winter	Spotted Bass	Standing timber edges near deep water access points in 20-40 foot range	Steep banks with laydowns that extend into deeper water

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crappie in and around cover	Shad schools in staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad	Small minnows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas	Small baitfish moving into tributary areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas	Small baitfish utilizing shallow flats and brush cover
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Shad schools beginning to move shallow	Various panfish species near woody cover
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small mollusks and aquatic insects
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Shad schools suspended near structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools concentrating in pre-spawn areas	Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish becoming more active
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools moving into pre-spawn staging areas	Crawfish becoming more active in warming water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish, as evidenced by recent fishing success	Shad, as indicated by lake profile showing strong shad population
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shad	Small Minnows
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports	Small baitfish congregating near current areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areas	Small minnows in shallow spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow-oriented shad schools	Young of year panfish
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small mollusks and aquatic insects
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools in shallow spawning areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools moving into shallower areas	Crawfish becoming more active in warmer water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-spawn patterns	Bluegill preparing for spawn in shallow areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans and zooplankton
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad	Other Crappie
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools - primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports	Small baitfish concentrations near structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools beginning to form in post-spawn period	Small panfish in shallow brush areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Shad schools beginning to form in post-spawn patterns	Various sunfish species in shallow spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy	Mollusks and aquatic insects
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools gathering near structure	Crawfish active in rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools beginning to concentrate in warming waters	Bottom-dwelling prey such as crawfish near rocky structures
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools beginning to group up in creek arms	Bluegill moving shallow for their spawn
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad - primary forage based on recent reports	Bluegill - typically abundant around summer cover
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around structure	Small crustaceans in and around brush piles and rocks
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending near structure	Small minnows relating to brush piles
Summer	White Bass	Shad schools in upper water column	Small baitfish relating to structure
Summer	Walleye	Shad - primary forage base in the lake	Insects - noted in recent catches
Summer	Muskie	Shad - primary forage base currently	Minnows - particularly around structure and current areas
Summer	Drum	Crayfish around rocky structure and brush	Mollusks on hard bottom areas
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools suspending near structure	Crawfish in rocky areas and around bridge riprap
Summer	Catfish	Shad schools	Bottom-dwelling prey (crawfish, smaller fish)
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schools around woody structure	Bluegill in and around matted grass
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad - primary forage based on recent reports and lake profile	Other baitfish species gathering in schools
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools migrating to creeks and coves	Small minnows relating to woody cover
Fall	White Bass	Shad schools - primary forage base according to multiple reports	Minnows - mentioned in recent fishing reports
Fall	Walleye	Shad schools migrating to shallower water	Small panfish relating to brush piles
Fall	Muskie	Shad schools concentrated near structure	Various baitfish utilizing bridge areas as cover
Fall	Drum	Crayfish	Mollusks
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools congregating in creek arms and near structure	Crawfish utilizing woody cover and rock structure
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling prey such as crawfish and small sunfish
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depth zones	Bluegill relating to remaining vegetation
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools suspended in the water column	Minnows relating to bottom structure
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects	Zooplankton
Winter	Crappie	Minnows	Small shad
Winter	White Bass	Schooling shad concentrated in deeper water	Small baitfish suspended near structure
Winter	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Small panfish relating to brush piles
Winter	Muskie	Large schools of winter-pattern shad concentrated in deeper water	Various suspended baitfish relating to deep structure
Winter	Drum	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and mollusks	Inactive or sluggish crawfish
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Smaller baitfish relating to deep structure
Winter	Catfish	Winter-stressed shad, particularly in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling prey like small fish and crustaceans
Winter	Spotted Bass	Suspended shad schools in 15-25 foot range	Small baitfish relating to timber edges

Bait Colors by Season for Caesar Creek Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Summer	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Summer	Drum	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Summer	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Spotted Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Fall	Muskie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Drum	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Muskie	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Winter	Drum	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals