How to Fish Gull Lake : Best Patterns & Techniques

Gull Lake

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

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Gull Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	46-57	Pre-spawn bass are actively feeding and showing territorial behavior, suspended 1-2 feet off bottom near staging areas Fish are transitioning between deeper wintering areas and shallow spawning flats, with larger females holding slightly deeper than males	Submerged vegetation edges in 15-20 foot depth range Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to spawning flats Isolated weed patches with suspended baitfish	Swim Jigs worked slowly through vegetation Lipless Crankbaits with stop-and-go retrieve Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) near suspended baitfish	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters Minnows suspended above structure Bluegill in and around vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	45-55	Fish are actively feeding but moving in small groups of 2-3, staging near deep water access points in pre-spawn pattern Showing both bottom-oriented and suspended feeding behavior, with fish suspending 12-15 feet down over deeper water	Ledges and drop-offs in 20-25 foot range with access to deeper water Transition areas between deep water and pre-spawn staging areas Secondary points with deep water access	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses in the 12-15 foot range Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly along bottom in 20-25 feet Drop Shot targeting suspended fish identified on electronics	Minnows suspending in the water column Bluegill holding near structure Small baitfish schools suspended over deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-62	Moving from winter deep water areas to shallower pre-spawn staging areas near potential spawning flats Actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased activity during warming trends Congregating in schools near structure transitions between deep wintering areas and shallow spawning zones	Protected coves with emerging vegetation in 8-15 foot depths Secondary points leading into spawning bays in 12-18 foot range Transition areas between deep winter holes and shallow flats with grass	Drop Shot with small plastics worked slowly near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light jigs around emerging vegetation Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms near staging areas	Small insects and larvae becoming active in warming shallows Small minnows congregating near emerging weed growth Bloodworms and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	46-58	Trout are actively moving into shallower feeding zones (8-15 feet) as water temperatures warm, especially during early morning and evening hours Fish are becoming increasingly aggressive in their feeding patterns, targeting baitfish and responding well to moving baits	Weed edges and submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depths, particularly near drop-offs Points and coves that provide wind-protected feeding areas Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to shallow flats where baitfish are congregating	Hard Jerkbaits worked slowly with long pauses near structure Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through productive zones Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along weed edges	Shad and small baitfish schooling in pre-spawn patterns Minnows becoming more active in warming shallows Early season panfish moving into warming zones	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-52	Pike are actively moving into shallow spawning areas, staging near emerging vegetation and warmer bays Aggressive feeding behavior as fish prepare for spawning, with increased response to larger profile baits	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially on the north side where water warms first Points and inside turns adjacent to spawning bays Shallow flats with brush piles and stumps in 3-8 feet of water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through vegetation edges Spinnerbaits retrieved steadily along points and through sparse cover Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses near staging areas	Shad schools congregating in warming shallow bays Bluegills moving into emerging vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	42-52	Yellow perch are actively transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, moving along depth transitions near spawning grounds Fish are forming loose schools and becoming increasingly active with warming water temperatures, feeding more aggressively as they prepare for spawning	Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to shallow flats in 12-20 foot depths Submerged vegetation edges near points and coves Transition areas between deep winter haunts and shallow spawning areas	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Tubes	Small minnows gathering in pre-spawn areas Young-of-year bluegill in vegetation edges Benthic invertebrates in transition areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	55-65	Bass are actively spawning in multiple depth zones (8-15 ft), with some fish visible on beds in shallower water near hard structure and grass edges Pre/post spawn fish are staging on nearby drop-offs and moving between spawning flats and deeper water depending on conditions	Protected spawning flats with hard bottom near stumps and grass edges in 8-15 ft Docks providing overhead cover adjacent to spawning areas Deeper ledges in 12-15 ft serving as staging areas	Drop Shot with shortened leader length for precise bed fishing presentations Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible spawning areas and structure Hard Jerkbaits worked slowly for staging fish	Crappie schools present in similar areas Bluegill beginning to move shallow	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Smallmouth bass are in pre-spawn to spawning mode, moving from deeper winter haunts to shallow spawning areas. Males are establishing and guarding nests in protected areas while females stage nearby. Fish are actively feeding to prepare for spawning, with increased aggression and territorial behavior around nesting sites.	Protected shallow bays and coves with gravel or rocky substrate, especially near points where depth transitions occur Secondary points and flats in 4-8 foot depth range with hard bottom composition Transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water, particularly near ledges dropping to 20-25 feet	Tubes worked slowly along potential spawning areas and transition zones Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses to trigger reaction strikes from staging fish Ned Rigs for finicky fish, especially during cold fronts or high pressure Drop Shot when targeting deeper staging areas adjacent to spawning flats	Shad moving into shallower water with warming temperatures Bluegill becoming more active in spawning areas Small minnows congregating around emerging vegetation and shallow structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively moving into shallow spawning areas, particularly in protected coves and bays where water warms first Males aggressively defending nesting sites in colonies, making them more susceptible to various presentations Staging in slightly deeper water adjacent to spawning areas during pre-spawn periods	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom composition, especially near matted grass Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, particularly those with emerging vegetation Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Bobbers with small jigs worked slowly around spawning areas Drop Shot with light finesse presentations for staging fish Micro Crankbaits worked parallel to spawning flats	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas Small minnows around emerging vegetation Aquatic invertebrates in shallow grass beds	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	46-58	Actively moving into shallower waters (8-15 feet) for spawning, particularly around dawn and dusk Aggressive feeding behavior to build energy reserves pre and post-spawn Utilizing shoreline structures and transitional areas between spawning sites and deeper water	Protected coves with gradual slopes in 8-15 foot depth range Weed edges and submerged vegetation near drop-offs Ledges and points adjacent to spawning areas	Inline Spinners worked steadily through spawning areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with slow retrieval Live Bait Rigs near structure transitions	Shad and small baitfish Juvenile panfish Aquatic insects and larvae	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	40-52	Northern Pike are in pre and post-spawn patterns, moving into shallow, weedy bays and backwaters with water temperatures between 40-50°F. Aggressive feeding before and after spawning. Fish are highly active in the shallows, particularly during early morning and evening hours, patrolling spawning areas and ambushing prey from vegetation.	Shallow, weedy bays and backwaters with emerging vegetation, especially near deeper water access Points and shallow flats adjacent to spawning bays, particularly those with submerged vegetation Brush piles and woody cover in 3-8 feet of water near spawning areas	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow vegetation and along edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved steadily near surface over spawning areas Live Bait Rigs with large minnows positioned just above vegetation	Shallow water baitfish (shad and minnows) congregating in spawning bays Bluegills moving into similar shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	45-52	Yellow perch are congregating in shallow bays and near-shore areas (2-8 feet) for spawning, especially around vegetation and woody debris Fish are more active during dawn and dusk periods, with males arriving first to spawning areas followed by egg-laden females Post-spawn fish gradually transition to slightly deeper water (8-15 feet) while remaining near vegetation edges	Protected shallow bays with submerged vegetation and matted grass Areas where vegetation meets harder bottom near shoreline points Transition zones between shallow spawning areas and deeper water	Bobbers with live bait suspended 1-3 feet off bottom Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly through spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near vegetation edges	Small minnows gathering in spawning areas Young of year bluegill in vegetated areas Various small invertebrates in vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-75	Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding in shallower zones near submerged vegetation Morning and evening surface feeding activity increasing, with fish moving between cover and feeding zones throughout the day	Submerged grass patches in 5-15 foot zones, especially near deeper water access Secondary points with vegetation near spawning bays Dock areas with adjacent vegetation providing shade and ambush points	Hard Topwater (Popping) worked over grass patches during low light periods Soft Jerkbaits fished along weed edges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) worked through vegetation Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges during cloudy conditions	Bluegill beginning to spawn in shallow areas Shad schools moving into post-spawn feeding areas Young of year baitfish becoming more abundant	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-72	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer locations along migration routes Fish are becoming more active and aggressive, willing to chase faster-moving baits as water temperatures rise	Secondary points and ledges adjacent to spawning flats in 10-20 foot depth range Deep water migration routes near drops in 20-25 foot range Submerged vegetation edges where emerging weed growth meets deeper water	Drop Shot with small profile baits worked methodically along ledges and points Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved steadily through transitional areas Hard Jerkbaits worked with aggressive cadence over secondary points	Shad schools beginning to group up in transitional areas Bluegill moving into shallow emerging vegetation Various minnow species scattered throughout water column	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegills recovering and beginning to feed actively, transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns Fish moving between shallow vegetation and nearby deeper structures as they establish summer feeding patterns	Shallow grass flats adjacent to deeper water (8-15 feet) Secondary points with emerging vegetation Transitional areas between spawning flats and summer humps	Bobbers with light jigs worked through vegetation edges Drop Shot with small soft plastics near structure transitions Micro Crankbaits worked parallel to weed edges	Small insects and larvae emerging in vegetation Young-of-year baitfish beginning to school Small crawfish in transition areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	46-58	Trout are actively feeding in the upper water column due to comfortable spring temperatures and good oxygen levels Fish are transitioning from deeper wintering areas to shallower feeding zones, following baitfish movements Most active during early morning and evening hours, utilizing weed edges and structure for ambush points	Weed edges and submerged vegetation in 12-15 foot depths Points and drop-offs transitioning from shallow to deep water Protected coves with good clarity and structure	Inline Spinners worked parallel to weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with steady retrieve Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses	Shad and smaller baitfish schooling in the upper water column Juvenile panfish near weed edges Minnows gathering around structure	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-65	Post-spawn pike actively feeding to recover energy, making frequent shallow to mid-depth movements along weed edges and points Fish are aggressive and opportunistic, targeting abundant baitfish schools in warming waters	Emerging weed edges adjacent to spawning bays Points and humps with quick access to deeper water Brush piles and woody cover in 8-15 foot depth range	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and through scattered vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves near structure Trolling Shallow (0-9') targeting transitional areas between spawning bays and main lake points	Shad schools moving into warming shallows Bluegill beginning to establish in emerging weed growth Minnows congregating around points and structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	52-65	Post-spawn yellow perch are actively feeding and regaining energy, moving from shallow spawning areas to transitional depths near weed edges and points Fish are schooling in loose groups, making frequent movements between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper sanctuary areas	Weed edges and emerging vegetation in 8-15 feet of water Points and humps adjacent to spawning bays Transition areas where bottom composition changes, especially near ledges and drops	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Small minnows gathering near emerging weed growth Young-of-year bluegill fry Small invertebrates in vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	75-82	Bass are actively feeding on surface and mid-depth baitfish schools, with reports showing morning surface activity and mid-day movement to deeper structures Fish are utilizing both shallow and deep water zones, transitioning between depths based on temperature and light conditions, with consistent activity around the 14-15 foot depth range	Submerged vegetation in 14-15 foot depth range Shaded humps in 15 foot depth range Ledges adjacent to bluegill spawning areas	Drop Shot in submerged vegetation and around ledges Hard Topwater (Popping) during morning hours when fish are surface feeding Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') around humps and transitional areas	Shad schools actively being pursued in open water Bluegill, particularly around spawning beds General baitfish schools driving surface feeding activity	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Natural Shad Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-82	Smallmouth bass are transitioning to deeper summer patterns, splitting time between feeding shallow early/late and holding deep midday Actively feeding on shad schools, following baitfish movements throughout the water column	Deep brush piles adjacent to main lake points (15-25 feet) Main lake points with access to deep water Submerged vegetation edges near drop-offs	Hard Jerkbaits worked with aggressive jerks followed by longer pauses Drop Shot with smaller profile baits when fish are suspended near brush Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along depth transitions	Shad schools suspending near structure Bluegill relating to brush and vegetation	Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	72-82	Bluegills are showing aggressive feeding behavior, particularly in shallow vegetation and on structure, with a mix of shallow and deep water patterns Fish are establishing both shallow and deep water patterns, with larger specimens found on deeper humps (20-28ft) while others remain active in shallow vegetation	Matted grass beds in shallow water (0-9 feet) Deep humps in 20-28 foot range Shallow to mid-depth flats with vegetation	Drop Shot - especially effective on deeper humps and flats Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') - particularly productive in matted grass areas Bobbers - effective for shallow vegetation presentations	Insects - primary forage based on multiple successful reports Minnows - secondary forage noted in shallow grass areas	Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Summer	Trout	58-65	Trout are seeking thermal refuge in deeper, cooler waters (20-28 feet) during summer heat, primarily active during early morning and evening hours Fish are holding near oxygen-rich weed edges and ledges, making feeding forays into adjacent areas	Deep ledges and drop-offs adjacent to weed edges in 20-28 foot range Submerged vegetation edges near depth transitions Deep points and coves that provide shade and cooler water	Trolling Deep (20'+) Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Drop Shot Spybaits	Shad and smaller baitfish in deeper water Panfish near weed edges Minnows suspended in the water column	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	75-82	Pike seeking thermal refuge in deeper water (50-60ft) during peak summer heat, making feeding forays into shallower areas during lower light periods Actively feeding on shad schools, utilizing points and deep structure as ambush locations Exhibiting both deep and shallow patterns depending on time of day, with stronger deep water presence during peak temperatures	Deep points adjacent to main lake basins (50-60ft) Submerged vegetation edges near deep water access Brush piles and stumps in 15-25ft transition zones	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges during morning/evening Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with large soft plastics Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along deep points	Shad schools suspended in deeper water Bluegill relating to weed edges Various minnow species around points and structure	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	68-78	Actively feeding in and around vegetation edges and structured areas during early morning and evening hours Moving between shallow weeds and adjacent deeper water during mid-day heat Forming loose schools near points and humps, particularly where vegetation meets depth changes	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, especially near points Submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depth range Ledges and drops with nearby vegetation or structure	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Inline Spinners	Small minnows and young-of-year baitfish Aquatic insects and larvae Juvenile bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Gull 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 large schools of baitfish and bluegills near drop-offs, showing aggressive feeding behavior to build up energy reserves for winter Fish are transitioning between summer and winter patterns, following baitfish movements and utilizing deeper structure during midday	Drop-offs and walls at 25-30 foot depths where baitfish are schooling Secondary points with access to deep water Deep weed edges adjacent to primary lake structures	Drop Shot with finesse baits targeting spotted baitfish schools Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) along drop-off edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) to mimic feeding bluegills	Bluegill concentrations near deep structure Schooled baitfish in 25-30 foot range Shad schools relating to drop-offs	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	55-69	Actively feeding on baitfish and bluegill in mid-depth zones, with fish transitioning between shallow and deep water based on forage movement Showing aggressive behavior with fish spotted near surface in 10ft zones, indicating active feeding periods Following typical fall migration patterns along ledges and structural elements while targeting abundant bait schools	Ledges and drop-offs with nearby deep water access Open water flats in 10-15 foot range with bait schools present Points and structural transitions connecting shallow to deep water	Drop Shot with finesse baits, especially effective on ledges and deeper structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at varying depths to match bait movement Hard Jerkbaits worked with longer pauses to target suspended fish	Minnows schooling in open water and along structure Bluegill relating to available cover and transition areas Shad schools suspending at varying depths	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills transitioning to deeper structures as water cools, actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter Fish becoming more concentrated around key structure, particularly near deep weed edges and humps	Deep weed edges and humps in 20-28 foot range Remaining green weed patches in 15-20 foot range Steep breaks near points with good structure	Drop Shot with small finesse presentations Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Ice Fishing Jigs (worked horizontally)	Small insects and larvae Small minnows Zooplankton near remaining vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Trout	52-68	Trout becoming more active in shallower water as temperatures cool, following baitfish schools and utilizing weed edges for ambush points Increased feeding activity during dawn and dusk, with more sustained activity throughout the day as water temperatures moderate Moving between deep-water refuges and shallow feeding zones, particularly along ledges and drop-offs	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 12-18 foot depths Ledges and drop-offs connecting deep water to shallow feeding areas Points and coves with access to deeper water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and break lines Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Inline Spinners in shallow areas during low light periods	Shad and smaller baitfish schooling in mid-depths Panfish relating to remaining vegetation Minnows congregating near points and drop-offs	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	48-62	Northern Pike are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following large schools of baitfish and targeting abundant forage Fish are transitioning from deeper summer haunts to shallower feeding zones, especially during overcast conditions and early/late in the day	Points and ledges adjacent to deep water, especially those with remaining weed growth Shallow bays with concentrated baitfish schools Brush piles and stumps near depth transitions	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and through baitfish schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for mimicking vulnerable baitfish Trolling Shallow (0-9') with crankbaits along points and vegetation edges	Shad schools congregating in shallow bays and around points Bluegill relating to remaining vegetation Minnows schooling near structural elements	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	48-62	Perch are schooling aggressively and feeding heavily in preparation for winter, with schools following baitfish migrations to deeper structure Fish are transitioning between shallow feeding areas and deeper winter holding areas, making daily movements based on light and temperature	Deep edges of points and humps in 15-28 foot range where baitfish are congregating Transition areas between vegetation and deeper water, especially near ledges and drops Deeper weed edges adjacent to flats where perch can ambush prey	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with aggressive jigging action to trigger reaction strikes Drop Shot with small soft plastics worked slowly near bottom structure Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended schools	Shad schools moving to deeper water Small minnows around weed edges Young-of-year bluegills in remaining vegetation	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	Panfish / Bluegill	38-45	Suspending near deep structure in 20-28 foot range, with occasional movement to shallower water during warmer winter days Feeding patterns become more methodical and less aggressive, with fish focusing on slower-moving prey	Deep humps and reefs in the 20-28 foot range Transition areas between flats and deep water Deep weedline edges where remaining vegetation provides cover	Drop Shot with small soft plastics worked slowly Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') during warmer periods Damiki Rig when fish are tightly schooled on structure	Small minnows Dormant aquatic insects Zooplankton	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Trout	42-52	Trout are actively feeding but conserving energy, typically suspending near structure and making calculated moves to ambush prey Fish are congregating in areas with consistent temperatures, often relating to deeper water adjacent to structure	Deep ledges and drop-offs in 20-28 foot range adjacent to structure Deeper sections of submerged weed edges where they meet depth changes Protected coves with access to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Drop Shot	Shad suspended in deeper water columns Small panfish near structure Minnows relating to weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	45-58	Pike are actively feeding in open water areas but still relating to structure, maintaining higher activity levels due to comfortable water temperatures Fish are following baitfish schools and using ambush points near deep water access	Deep water points adjacent to shallow flats where baitfish schools congregate Submerged vegetation edges near creek channels or depth changes Brush piles and stumps in 15-25 foot depth range	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and points with consistent speed Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through baitfish schools	Shad schools in open water and near structure Bluegill relating to brush piles and vegetation Minnows scattered throughout various depth zones	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	38-45	Perch are actively schooling in open water basins near deep structure, feeding aggressively during prime daylight hours Fish are suspending over deep water near steep breaks and points, making vertical movements throughout the day to follow baitfish	Deep basin areas adjacent to steep breaks (20-28 feet) Main lake points with quick access to deep water Ledges and drops near submerged vegetation edges	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Spoons	Shad schools concentrated in deep water Small bluegills near deep weed edges Minnows schooling near structure	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	34-39	Bluegills form tight schools in deeper basins and near structure, typically suspending just off bottom in 20-28 foot range Feeding activity becomes more concentrated during prime daylight hours, with fish being most active during mid-morning and late afternoon	Deep basins near humps in 20-28 foot range Deep edges of reefs with access to deeper water Transitions where matted grass meets deeper water	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements just off bottom Ice Fishing Spoons jigged aggressively to attract fish, then slowed for bites Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or waxworms for finicky fish	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny minnows and young-of-year baitfish Zooplankton in deeper water columns	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Trout	34-39	Trout become less active but still feed regularly, concentrating in areas with consistent depths and moderate current Most active during dawn and dusk periods, with brief feeding windows throughout the day	Deep ledges and drop-offs in 20-28 foot range where oxygen levels remain stable Areas near submerged vegetation edges that maintain oxygen production Transition zones between shallow flats and deeper water where baitfish congregate	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements near bottom structure Ice Fishing Spoons using flash to attract trout from greater distances Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to pattern fish movement	Small baitfish (shad and minnows) in suspended schools Juvenile panfish near vegetation edges Aquatic insects emerging from bottom structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	33-39	Pike become less active but maintain feeding periods, particularly during early and late ice when oxygen levels are highest Fish tend to congregate near structure adjacent to deeper water, making short movements to feed on suspended baitfish schools	Points and humps adjacent to deep water basins where baitfish suspend Edges of remaining green weed beds in 8-15 foot depths Brush piles and woody cover near sharp breaks	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait positioned at varying depths Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows for finesse presentation	Shad schools suspending near structure Bluegills relating to remaining weed growth Various minnow species concentrated near points and breaks	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	33-38	Yellow perch are schooling tightly in winter, moving between points and deeper basins Feeding periods are shorter but more intense during daylight hours, with perch often suspending near bottom structure	Points with access to deeper water, especially those with vegetation or structure Deep basins adjacent to structural elements Transition areas between deep and shallow water where ledges meet points	Ice Fishing Jigs worked slowly with subtle movements Bobbers for suspended presentations through the ice Ice Fishing Spoons for aggressive reaction strikes	Small minnows Aquatic insects Young-of-year panfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Gull Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation edges in 15-20 foot depth range	Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Ledges and drop-offs in 20-25 foot range with access to deeper water	Transition areas between deep water and pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves with emerging vegetation in 8-15 foot depths	Secondary points leading into spawning bays in 12-18 foot range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Weed edges and submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depths, particularly near drop-offs	Points and coves that provide wind-protected feeding areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation, especially on the north side where water warms first	Points and inside turns adjacent to spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to shallow flats in 12-20 foot depths	Submerged vegetation edges near points and coves
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected spawning flats with hard bottom near stumps and grass edges in 8-15 ft	Docks providing overhead cover adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected shallow bays and coves with gravel or rocky substrate, especially near points where depth transitions occur	Secondary points and flats in 4-8 foot depth range with hard bottom composition
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom composition, especially near matted grass	Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, particularly those with emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Protected coves with gradual slopes in 8-15 foot depth range	Weed edges and submerged vegetation near drop-offs
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow, weedy bays and backwaters with emerging vegetation, especially near deeper water access	Points and shallow flats adjacent to spawning bays, particularly those with submerged vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Protected shallow bays with submerged vegetation and matted grass	Areas where vegetation meets harder bottom near shoreline points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Submerged grass patches in 5-15 foot zones, especially near deeper water access	Secondary points with vegetation near spawning bays
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Secondary points and ledges adjacent to spawning flats in 10-20 foot depth range	Deep water migration routes near drops in 20-25 foot range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow grass flats adjacent to deeper water (8-15 feet)	Secondary points with emerging vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Weed edges and submerged vegetation in 12-15 foot depths	Points and drop-offs transitioning from shallow to deep water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Emerging weed edges adjacent to spawning bays	Points and humps with quick access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Weed edges and emerging vegetation in 8-15 feet of water	Points and humps adjacent to spawning bays
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation in 14-15 foot depth range	Shaded humps in 15 foot depth range
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Deep brush piles adjacent to main lake points (15-25 feet)	Main lake points with access to deep water
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Matted grass beds in shallow water (0-9 feet)	Deep humps in 20-28 foot range
Summer	Trout	Deep ledges and drop-offs adjacent to weed edges in 20-28 foot range	Submerged vegetation edges near depth transitions
Summer	Northern Pike	Deep points adjacent to main lake basins (50-60ft)	Submerged vegetation edges near deep water access
Summer	Yellow Perch	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, especially near points	Submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depth range
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Drop-offs and walls at 25-30 foot depths where baitfish are schooling	Secondary points with access to deep water
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Ledges and drop-offs with nearby deep water access	Open water flats in 10-15 foot range with bait schools present
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep weed edges and humps in 20-28 foot range	Remaining green weed patches in 15-20 foot range
Fall	Trout	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 12-18 foot depths	Ledges and drop-offs connecting deep water to shallow feeding areas
Fall	Northern Pike	Points and ledges adjacent to deep water, especially those with remaining weed growth	Shallow bays with concentrated baitfish schools
Fall	Yellow Perch	Deep edges of points and humps in 15-28 foot range where baitfish are congregating	Transition areas between vegetation and deeper water, especially near ledges and drops
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep humps and reefs in the 20-28 foot range	Transition areas between flats and deep water
Winter	Trout	Deep ledges and drop-offs in 20-28 foot range adjacent to structure	Deeper sections of submerged weed edges where they meet depth changes
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep water points adjacent to shallow flats where baitfish schools congregate	Submerged vegetation edges near creek channels or depth changes
Winter	Yellow Perch	Deep basin areas adjacent to steep breaks (20-28 feet)	Main lake points with quick access to deep water
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep basins near humps in 20-28 foot range	Deep edges of reefs with access to deeper water
Ice	Trout	Deep ledges and drop-offs in 20-28 foot range where oxygen levels remain stable	Areas near submerged vegetation edges that maintain oxygen production
Ice	Northern Pike	Points and humps adjacent to deep water basins where baitfish suspend	Edges of remaining green weed beds in 8-15 foot depths
Ice	Yellow Perch	Points with access to deeper water, especially those with vegetation or structure	Deep basins adjacent to structural elements

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters	Minnows suspended above structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows suspending in the water column	Bluegill holding near structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae becoming active in warming shallows	Small minnows congregating near emerging weed growth
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Shad and small baitfish schooling in pre-spawn patterns	Minnows becoming more active in warming shallows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shad schools congregating in warming shallow bays	Bluegills moving into emerging vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows gathering in pre-spawn areas	Young-of-year bluegill in vegetation edges
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crappie schools present in similar areas	Bluegill beginning to move shallow
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad moving into shallower water with warming temperatures	Bluegill becoming more active in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas	Small minnows around emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Shad and small baitfish	Juvenile panfish
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow water baitfish (shad and minnows) congregating in spawning bays	Bluegills moving into similar shallow areas
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows gathering in spawning areas	Young of year bluegill in vegetated areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill beginning to spawn in shallow areas	Shad schools moving into post-spawn feeding areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools beginning to group up in transitional areas	Bluegill moving into shallow emerging vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae emerging in vegetation	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to school
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Shad and smaller baitfish schooling in the upper water column	Juvenile panfish near weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shad schools moving into warming shallows	Bluegill beginning to establish in emerging weed growth
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows gathering near emerging weed growth	Young-of-year bluegill fry
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools actively being pursued in open water	Bluegill, particularly around spawning beds
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools suspending near structure	Bluegill relating to brush and vegetation
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Insects - primary forage based on multiple successful reports	Minnows - secondary forage noted in shallow grass areas
Summer	Trout	Shad and smaller baitfish in deeper water	Panfish near weed edges
Summer	Northern Pike	Shad schools suspended in deeper water	Bluegill relating to weed edges
Summer	Yellow Perch	Small minnows and young-of-year baitfish	Aquatic insects and larvae
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrations near deep structure	Schooled baitfish in 25-30 foot range
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows schooling in open water and along structure	Bluegill relating to available cover and transition areas
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Small minnows
Fall	Trout	Shad and smaller baitfish schooling in mid-depths	Panfish relating to remaining vegetation
Fall	Northern Pike	Shad schools congregating in shallow bays and around points	Bluegill relating to remaining vegetation
Fall	Yellow Perch	Shad schools moving to deeper water	Small minnows around weed edges
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small minnows	Dormant aquatic insects
Winter	Trout	Shad suspended in deeper water columns	Small panfish near structure
Winter	Northern Pike	Shad schools in open water and near structure	Bluegill relating to brush piles and vegetation
Winter	Yellow Perch	Shad schools concentrated in deep water	Small bluegills near deep weed edges
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny minnows and young-of-year baitfish
Ice	Trout	Small baitfish (shad and minnows) in suspended schools	Juvenile panfish near vegetation edges
Ice	Northern Pike	Shad schools suspending near structure	Bluegills relating to remaining weed growth
Ice	Yellow Perch	Small minnows	Aquatic insects

Bait Colors by Season for Gull Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Natural Shad Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Light Neutral Colors Green Colors
Summer	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Panfish / Bluegill	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors