How to Fish Grindstone Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Grindstone Lake

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 12, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Grindstone Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	42-52	Trout are transitioning from deep winter haunts to shallower pre-spawn areas, actively feeding and following smelt schools Fish are suspending and moving through the water column, particularly active during low-light periods Showing increased aggression and feeding activity as water temperatures rise above 42°F	Transition areas where deep basins meet shallower feeding flats (40-50 feet) Deep-water travel corridors along the elongated lake structure Ledges and structural elements near primary spawning areas	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Spoons Live Bait Rigs	Smelt schools moving through mid-water column Various minnow species in transitional areas Small aquatic invertebrates in warming shallows	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	40-45	Smallmouth bass are staging on pre-spawn locations near deep water access, actively feeding on minnows around structure in 15-foot depths Fish are showing school behavior on break lines off main lake points, particularly in the north end of the lake	Submerged wood and fish cribs at 15-foot depths Tapered break lines off main lake points, especially on the north end Deep water transition areas adjacent to spawning flats	Drop Shot with 3-inch soft plastic minnow imitations, especially effective when dragged along break lines Hover/Mid-Strolling presentations over structure to trigger reaction strikes	Minnows (primary forage confirmed in fishing reports) Cold-water baitfish like smelt in deeper water	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	38-48	Lake trout are moving from winter deep-water patterns into transitional depths (30-50 feet), making frequent vertical movements to hunt pelagic baitfish Fish are becoming more active with warming water temperatures, showing aggressive feeding behavior particularly during low-light periods	Deep structural transitions where 50-foot contours meet shallower flats Steep shoreline points that provide quick access to both deep and shallow water Suspended areas over deep basins where smelt schools are holding	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with lead core line to target suspended fish Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along structural edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through suspended bait schools	Smelt schools moving into pre-spawn locations Juvenile cisco suspended in the water column Small lake whitefish in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	48-58	Pre-spawn largemouth bass are actively staging on secondary points and shallower breaks, moving from winter depths toward spawning areas Fish are becoming more active with warming water, feeding opportunistically to build energy reserves for spawning	Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays, especially those with emerging weed growth Creek and river inflow areas where warmer water enters the lake Transition areas between deep winter holding areas and shallow spawning flats	Lipless Crankbaits worked along emerging weed edges and transition areas Bladed Jigs slow-rolled through slightly deeper water near staging areas Soft Jerkbaits worked with long pauses in 5-15 foot depths	Bluegill moving shallow with warming water Small baitfish schools in transition areas Early season crawfish becoming active in rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Goldeye	42-52	Goldeye are beginning to move from deeper wintering areas to shallower feeding zones, particularly areas with increased turbidity from spring runoff Fish are becoming more active but still maintaining deeper staging areas between feeding periods Showing preference for areas where wind action creates slightly stained water conditions	Wind-swept shorelines with moderate depth transitions (15-25 feet) Deep water access points near tributary inflows Submerged wood structure in 20-30 foot range	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Smelt moving into shallower water Small invertebrates in turbid areas Young of year baitfish	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	42-52	Trout are actively moving from deep winter holding areas (50 FOW) to shallower spawning areas, following temperature transitions Fish are exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior to recover from winter and prepare for spawning, particularly during dawn and dusk periods	Transitional ledges between deep basins and shallow spawning areas, particularly in 20-35 foot range Rocky points and shoreline areas with good gravel substrate in 10-20 foot depths Deep-water travel corridors along the elongated basin where fish stage before moving shallow	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with controlled depth presentations Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are marked on electronics Spoons worked through suspended fish marked on electronics	Smelt schools transitioning from deep water to spawning areas Suspended minnow schools in the mid-water column	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	42-62	Smallmouth bass are transitioning from pre-spawn staging to spawning, with males establishing and guarding nests in protected areas between 2-8 feet deep Fish are highly territorial and aggressive during this period, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning while defending nesting sites	Protected shallow bays and coves with gravel or small rock bottom near deeper water Areas around submerged wood and cribs in 12-15 foot depth range for pre-spawn staging Break lines off main lake points where fish transition between staging and spawning areas	Tubes worked slowly around spawning areas and staging points Drop Shot with 3-inch soft plastics for suspended pre-spawn fish Ned Rigs worked methodically through shallow spawning flats Soft Jerkbaits fished with erratic retrieves for aggressive fish	Small minnows in 2-4 inch range Crayfish becoming more active in warming shallows	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	38-45	Transitioning from deep winter haunts (50+ feet) to shallower spawning areas (20-35 feet), following temperature-dependent migration patterns Becoming more active and aggressive as water temperatures rise, but still showing some cautious behavior as noted in Livescope observations	Rocky points and shoreline areas with rubble bottom in 20-35 foot depth range Transitional areas between deep winter holding spots and spawning grounds, particularly along the elongated lake's deep channels Secondary points and rocky shelves adjacent to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Soft Body Swimbaits (Large)	Smelt schools transitioning to shallower water Smaller lake trout (cannibalistic feeding)	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	55-65	Staging in pre-spawn areas near shallow flats, moving between deeper wintering areas and spawning locations Males actively searching for and preparing spawning beds in protected areas with firm bottom Aggressive territorial behavior around spawning areas, particularly responsive to sight-based feeding	Protected coves and bays with firm bottom composition Transitional areas between winter deep water and spawning flats Creek and river inflow areas with warmer water	Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly along transition areas Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around emerging vegetation Spinnerbaits in slightly stained water near spawning flats	Bluegill beginning to move shallow Small baitfish in warming areas Crawfish becoming active in warming shallows	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Goldeye	42-55	Goldeye are moving into shallower, warmer waters (5-15 feet) for spawning activities, particularly seeking areas with increased turbidity from wind or tributary action Fish are actively feeding during dawn and dusk periods, taking advantage of low light conditions and invertebrate activity	Wind-blown shorelines and tributary inflows where turbidity is increased Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially near submerged vegetation in 5-10 foot range Protected bays and coves where water warms more quickly	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms worked slowly along bottom transitions Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small jigs tipped with soft plastics Inline Spinners retrieved at moderate speeds through turbid areas	Small invertebrates and aquatic insects Young-of-year baitfish and small minnows Zooplankton in turbid areas	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	42-55	Post-spawn trout are actively feeding and recovering, moving between deep basins and transitional structure following smelt and minnow schools Fish are utilizing the water column more vertically as spring thermal layers develop, suspending at varying depths based on comfort zones	Deep basin edges where 30-50 foot contours meet structural elements Long points and ledges that create travel corridors into deeper water Suspended areas over deep basins where schools of smelt congregate	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with varied speeds to trigger reaction strikes Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are actively feeding on suspended bait Spoons worked vertically through suspended bait schools	Smelt schools suspending in the water column Various minnow species utilizing transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Post-spawn smallmouth have moved from shallow nesting areas to deeper main-lake structure, actively feeding to recover from spawning activity Fish are transitioning to summer patterns, relating strongly to break lines and points while following baitfish schools	Main lake points with gradual tapers connecting to deep water Break lines near submerged wood and cribs in 15-25 foot range Secondary points with access to deep water basins	Drop Shot with 3-4 inch baits worked slowly along break lines Shakey Heads worked methodically around wood structure and points Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved parallel to break lines	Minnows and small baitfish in 2-4 inch range Crayfish emerging in rocky areas Smelt in deeper water columns	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	42-52	Post-spawn lake trout are transitioning from deep winter haunts to suspended feeding patterns, actively chasing pelagic baitfish (smelt) in the water column Fish showing cautious behavior but willing to chase, moving between deep structural elements and suspended zones while feeding	Deep water channels and ledges in 40-60 foot range where structural elements meet open water Points and steep breaks adjacent to deep basins where smelt schools concentrate Suspended zones over main lake basin where baitfish schools are present	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to target suspended fish following bait schools Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are marked near structure Spoons worked vertically through suspended bait schools	Smelt schools suspending in open water Juvenile cisco/whitefish in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Post-spawn largemouth bass are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, becoming more active and beginning to feed aggressively to recover energy Fish are spreading out along weed edges and near creek/river inflows, using these areas as primary feeding zones	Weed edges in 5-10 feet of water, especially near deeper water access Creek and river inflow areas with moving water Secondary points with mixed vegetation and hard bottom structure	Soft Jerkbaits worked with a erratic retrieve parallel to weed edges Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through transitional areas Spinnerbaits around flowing water entry points	Bluegill beginning to spawn in shallow areas Young of the year baitfish emerging in warming waters Crawfish becoming more active in transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Goldeye	42-55	Fish are actively feeding post-spawn, moving into slightly warmer, more turbid areas near wind-blown shorelines and tributary inflows Beginning to transition from deeper wintering areas to shallower feeding zones, particularly during low-light periods	Wind-blown shorelines and points where turbidity increases Tributary mouths and inflowing water areas Transition areas between shallow flats and deeper water (15-25 feet)	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Spoons	Smelt concentrations in transitional areas Small invertebrates and zooplankton Young-of-year baitfish	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Trout	48-55	Trout moving deeper to find optimal temperature zones as surface waters warm, typically suspending in or just above the thermocline Actively feeding on pelagic baitfish (smelt) in deep basin areas, making frequent vertical movements through the water column	Deep basin areas near the thermocline, typically 30-45 feet deep Steep ledges and drop-offs where cold water intersects with structure Deep-water travel corridors along the lake's elongated axis	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to target suspended fish Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are marked on electronics Spoons worked vertically through suspended bait schools	Smelt schools suspending in deep water Various smaller minnow species	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	65-78	Smallmouth bass are establishing summer patterns, relating to deep structure and following baitfish schools. During early morning and evening, they move shallower to feed actively on points and break lines Fish are suspending near thermocline during midday heat, typically between 15-25 feet deep, using the lake's significant deep water as a comfort zone	Main lake points with gradual tapers where break lines intersect with the thermocline Deep fish cribs and submerged wood in 15-25 foot range Offshore structure near deep basins where baitfish schools congregate	Drop Shot with 3-4 inch soft plastics worked slowly along break lines Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along points and structure breaks Ned Rigs worked through suspended fish near the thermocline	Smelt in deeper, cooler water Small minnows in 2-4 inch range Juvenile perch around structure	Natural Shad Colors Green Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Lake Trout	48-52	Lake trout suspending in thermocline layer (30-45 feet) during summer, making periodic moves to deeper water (50-65 feet) during peak daylight hours Actively feeding during early morning and late evening, following schools of smelt through the water column Showing cautious behavior due to fishing pressure, requiring finesse presentations and natural movements	Deep water channels and ledges at 50-65 feet, especially where the elongated lake shape creates distinct structural elements Thermocline transition zones near points and underwater humps at 30-45 feet Areas where deep basin meets complex shoreline structure, creating ambush points for suspended baitfish	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to target specific depth zones where lake trout are holding Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are marked on sonar, using slow, subtle movements Spoons worked vertically through suspended fish, matching the flutter of dying baitfish	Smelt schools suspending in open water Other pelagic baitfish utilizing the thermocline layer Young-of-year baitfish beginning to school in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	72-82	Actively feeding along weed edges and creek/river inflow areas, primarily during morning and evening periods Holding in 7-10 foot depths near submerged vegetation during midday, moving shallower during low light periods	Weed edges adjacent to creek or river inflows in 5-10 feet of water Submerged vegetation beds with defined edges near deeper water Protected coves with healthy weed growth	Wacky Rigs worked slowly through weed edges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around thick vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) along weed edges	Bluegill concentrating around weed edges Young of year baitfish emerging in vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Goldeye	65-78	Fish are seeking turbid water zones, particularly during bright conditions, often utilizing wind-blown areas and tributary inflows Active feeding during low-light periods (dawn/dusk) in upper water column, moving deeper during bright midday hours Concentrating around areas where current or wind action increases food availability and turbidity	Wind-blown points and shorelines where turbidity increases Deep basin edges near the 50-foot contour Areas where tributaries or current create more turbid conditions	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Trolling Mid Depth (10-19')	Smelt schools in open water Small invertebrates and zooplankton in turbid areas Juvenile baitfish near weedlines	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Grindstone Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Trout	45-58	Trout are actively feeding in preparation for winter, following schools of smelt and other baitfish in the water column Fish are transitioning between deeper and shallower waters as fall turnover occurs, with most active periods during low-light conditions	Deep basin edges where 30-50 foot contours meet structure Steep ledges and drop-offs adjacent to deep-water travel corridors Suspended over main basin areas following baitfish schools	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers following baitfish schools Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are marked on electronics Spoons worked vertically through suspended bait balls	Smelt schools suspending in deep water Various minnow species transitioning to deeper water Young-of-year baitfish congregating in schools	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	48-62	Actively feeding on baitfish schools to build energy reserves for winter, following forage to deeper structure as water cools Transitioning from summer patterns to fall feeding locations, making longer movements between feeding areas	Main lake points with access to deep water and baitfish schools Break lines near fish cribs in 20-35 foot range Steep contour changes where smallmouth can quickly adjust depth	Drop Shot with 3-4 inch baits worked slowly along break lines Blade Baits worked vertically through baitfish schools Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) along points and breaks	Smelt schools in deeper water Minnows suspended near structure Young-of-year baitfish	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Lake Trout	45-55	Lake trout transitioning to shallower feeding patterns (25-45 feet) as water temperatures cool, actively pursuing pelagic baitfish (smelt) in open water and near structure Fish showing increased aggression but remaining cautious, making multiple passes at prey before committing to strikes	Deep water points and channels where depths transition from 40 to 70 feet Suspended areas over main lake basin where smelt schools are present Complex structural elements along the elongated basin where current flow concentrates baitfish	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with downriggers targeting suspended fish Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) working through the water column where fish are marked Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes from pursuing lake trout	Smelt schools suspending in open water Juvenile cisco/whitefish near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-68	Actively feeding and following baitfish schools to build energy reserves for winter, with increased activity during cloudy days and dawn/dusk periods Moving between shallow feeding areas and deeper staging areas, particularly around sharp breaks and channel edges	Deep weed edges adjacent to creek/river inflows where baitfish concentrate Sharp break lines transitioning from 8-15 feet to 20+ feet Wood structure and points near deep water access	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked parallel to deep weed edges and break lines Spinnerbaits worked through scattered vegetation and around wood structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for mimicking larger baitfish schools	Schooling Baitfish (Shad and Young-of-Year Panfish) Bluegill concentrating near remaining vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Shad Colors Green Colors
Fall	Goldeye	45-60	Goldeye moving to deeper basins (30-50 feet) as water cools, following smelt and other forage fish Actively feeding during low-light periods, especially in areas where wind creates slight turbidity Schooling behavior becomes more pronounced, with fish concentrating in larger groups	Deep basin areas near structural transitions, particularly in 40-50 foot range Wind-swept points and ledges where turbidity increases Areas where deeper water meets submerged wood structure	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Deep (20'+) Spoons	Smelt schools in deep water Small baitfish in transitional areas Aquatic invertebrates near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Trout	34-39	Trout actively feeding on suspended smelt schools, moving vertically through water column following forage Fish typically marking between 30-50 feet, making periodic movements shallower to feed	Deep basin areas 45-60 feet with nearby ledges Deep water travel corridors along lake's length Suspended areas over main lake basins where smelt schools concentrate	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Deep (20'+) Ice Fishing Spoons Live Bait Rigs	Smelt schools suspended in deep water Various small minnow species	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	34-39	Lake trout suspending and actively moving through water column, showing cautious behavior patterns that require precise presentation Fish are holding in deep water zones (around 50 feet) but making vertical movements to feed on suspended baitfish	Deep water ledges and channels in 45-55 foot range Suspended zones near structural elements where smelt congregate Deep points and channel intersections where current creates baitfish aggregations	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Deep (20'+) Ice Fishing Spoons	Smelt schools suspended in deep water columns Other pelagic baitfish utilizing deep water habitat	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Goldeye	34-42	Goldeye are likely concentrating in deeper water basins (30-50 feet) where water temperature remains more stable during winter season Fish are schooling in areas with increased turbidity, particularly near deep structural transitions where current or wind action creates favorable conditions	Deep basin areas near structural transitions, particularly in 40-50 foot range Areas where deep ledges intersect with the main basin Locations where wind action or current increases turbidity in deeper water	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Spoons Blade Baits	Smelt schools in deep water Small invertebrates and zooplankton Juvenile baitfish in suspended schools	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Ice	Trout	34-39	Trout suspending and actively moving through water column at 50 FOW, showing typical pelagic behavior with varying activity levels based on fishing pressure Fish marking on electronics but being selective in their feeding, likely due to abundant smelt forage in the area	Deep basin areas around 50 feet of water where trout are holding Ledges and transitional areas between deep basins and shallower water Mid-column suspended areas where trout are actively feeding	Ice Fishing Spoons - particularly 1/2 oz glow spoons tipped with live bait Dead stick presentation with tungsten jigs and wax worms for finicky fish Vertical Jigging Shallow with aggressive presentations using Ripping Raps for active fish	Smelt - primary forage noted as 'thick' in recent reports Minnows - including fathead minnows being used as bait	Pink Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Lake Trout	34-39	Lake trout are holding in deep water (50 FOW) around ledges, showing cautious behavior with fish following but not committing to presentations Fish are actively moving through the water column as evidenced by Livescope observations, likely feeding opportunistically on suspended baitfish	Deep water ledges in 45-55 feet of water Deep structural transitions near primary lake basin Deep water channels created by the lake's elongated shape	Ice Fishing Jigs - specifically bucktail jigs tipped with minnows worked near bottom Ice Fishing Spoons - particularly glow patterns to attract fish in deep water Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) - using aggressive jigging to trigger reaction strikes	Smelt - primary pelagic forage base Small minnows - evidenced by successful minnow-tipped presentations	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Grindstone Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Transition areas where deep basins meet shallower feeding flats (40-50 feet)	Deep-water travel corridors along the elongated lake structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Submerged wood and fish cribs at 15-foot depths	Tapered break lines off main lake points, especially on the north end
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Deep structural transitions where 50-foot contours meet shallower flats	Steep shoreline points that provide quick access to both deep and shallow water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays, especially those with emerging weed growth	Creek and river inflow areas where warmer water enters the lake
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Goldeye	Wind-swept shorelines with moderate depth transitions (15-25 feet)	Deep water access points near tributary inflows
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Transitional ledges between deep basins and shallow spawning areas, particularly in 20-35 foot range	Rocky points and shoreline areas with good gravel substrate in 10-20 foot depths
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected shallow bays and coves with gravel or small rock bottom near deeper water	Areas around submerged wood and cribs in 12-15 foot depth range for pre-spawn staging
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Rocky points and shoreline areas with rubble bottom in 20-35 foot depth range	Transitional areas between deep winter holding spots and spawning grounds, particularly along the elongated lake's deep channels
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected coves and bays with firm bottom composition	Transitional areas between winter deep water and spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Goldeye	Wind-blown shorelines and tributary inflows where turbidity is increased	Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially near submerged vegetation in 5-10 foot range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Deep basin edges where 30-50 foot contours meet structural elements	Long points and ledges that create travel corridors into deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with gradual tapers connecting to deep water	Break lines near submerged wood and cribs in 15-25 foot range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Deep water channels and ledges in 40-60 foot range where structural elements meet open water	Points and steep breaks adjacent to deep basins where smelt schools concentrate
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Weed edges in 5-10 feet of water, especially near deeper water access	Creek and river inflow areas with moving water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Goldeye	Wind-blown shorelines and points where turbidity increases	Tributary mouths and inflowing water areas
Summer	Trout	Deep basin areas near the thermocline, typically 30-45 feet deep	Steep ledges and drop-offs where cold water intersects with structure
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with gradual tapers where break lines intersect with the thermocline	Deep fish cribs and submerged wood in 15-25 foot range
Summer	Lake Trout	Deep water channels and ledges at 50-65 feet, especially where the elongated lake shape creates distinct structural elements	Thermocline transition zones near points and underwater humps at 30-45 feet
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Weed edges adjacent to creek or river inflows in 5-10 feet of water	Submerged vegetation beds with defined edges near deeper water
Summer	Goldeye	Wind-blown points and shorelines where turbidity increases	Deep basin edges near the 50-foot contour
Fall	Trout	Deep basin edges where 30-50 foot contours meet structure	Steep ledges and drop-offs adjacent to deep-water travel corridors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with access to deep water and baitfish schools	Break lines near fish cribs in 20-35 foot range
Fall	Lake Trout	Deep water points and channels where depths transition from 40 to 70 feet	Suspended areas over main lake basin where smelt schools are present
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Deep weed edges adjacent to creek/river inflows where baitfish concentrate	Sharp break lines transitioning from 8-15 feet to 20+ feet
Fall	Goldeye	Deep basin areas near structural transitions, particularly in 40-50 foot range	Wind-swept points and ledges where turbidity increases
Winter	Trout	Deep basin areas 45-60 feet with nearby ledges	Deep water travel corridors along lake's length
Winter	Lake Trout	Deep water ledges and channels in 45-55 foot range	Suspended zones near structural elements where smelt congregate
Winter	Goldeye	Deep basin areas near structural transitions, particularly in 40-50 foot range	Areas where deep ledges intersect with the main basin
Ice	Trout	Deep basin areas around 50 feet of water where trout are holding	Ledges and transitional areas between deep basins and shallower water
Ice	Lake Trout	Deep water ledges in 45-55 feet of water	Deep structural transitions near primary lake basin

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Smelt schools moving through mid-water column	Various minnow species in transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows (primary forage confirmed in fishing reports)	Cold-water baitfish like smelt in deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Smelt schools moving into pre-spawn locations	Juvenile cisco suspended in the water column
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill moving shallow with warming water	Small baitfish schools in transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Goldeye	Smelt moving into shallower water	Small invertebrates in turbid areas
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Smelt schools transitioning from deep water to spawning areas	Suspended minnow schools in the mid-water column
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Small minnows in 2-4 inch range	Crayfish becoming more active in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Smelt schools transitioning to shallower water	Smaller lake trout (cannibalistic feeding)
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill beginning to move shallow	Small baitfish in warming areas
Spring (Spawn)	Goldeye	Small invertebrates and aquatic insects	Young-of-year baitfish and small minnows
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Smelt schools suspending in the water column	Various minnow species utilizing transitional areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows and small baitfish in 2-4 inch range	Crayfish emerging in rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Smelt schools suspending in open water	Juvenile cisco/whitefish in deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill beginning to spawn in shallow areas	Young of the year baitfish emerging in warming waters
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Goldeye	Smelt concentrations in transitional areas	Small invertebrates and zooplankton
Summer	Trout	Smelt schools suspending in deep water	Various smaller minnow species
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Smelt in deeper, cooler water	Small minnows in 2-4 inch range
Summer	Lake Trout	Smelt schools suspending in open water	Other pelagic baitfish utilizing the thermocline layer
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrating around weed edges	Young of year baitfish emerging in vegetation
Summer	Goldeye	Smelt schools in open water	Small invertebrates and zooplankton in turbid areas
Fall	Trout	Smelt schools suspending in deep water	Various minnow species transitioning to deeper water
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Smelt schools in deeper water	Minnows suspended near structure
Fall	Lake Trout	Smelt schools suspending in open water	Juvenile cisco/whitefish near structure
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Schooling Baitfish (Shad and Young-of-Year Panfish)	Bluegill concentrating near remaining vegetation
Fall	Goldeye	Smelt schools in deep water	Small baitfish in transitional areas
Winter	Trout	Smelt schools suspended in deep water	Various small minnow species
Winter	Lake Trout	Smelt schools suspended in deep water columns	Other pelagic baitfish utilizing deep water habitat
Winter	Goldeye	Smelt schools in deep water	Small invertebrates and zooplankton
Ice	Trout	Smelt - primary forage noted as 'thick' in recent reports	Minnows - including fathead minnows being used as bait
Ice	Lake Trout	Smelt - primary pelagic forage base	Small minnows - evidenced by successful minnow-tipped presentations

Bait Colors by Season for Grindstone Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Goldeye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Goldeye	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Goldeye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Green Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Goldeye	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Shad Colors Green Colors
Fall	Goldeye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Pink Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Goldeye	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Ice	Trout	Pink Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors