How to Fish Lake Marion : Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Marion

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 23, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Marion

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	50-58	Bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy for spawning. Fish are relating heavily to structure in 4-7 foot depth range as water temperatures climb through the 50s Movement patterns show fish pulling up from deeper winter areas to shallower staging points, particularly around cypress trees and brush piles near potential spawning flats	Cypress trees adjacent to deeper water, especially those near spawning flats Brush piles in 4-7 foot depth range Docks with brush piles, particularly those near deeper water access Secondary points with submerged vegetation	Bladed Jigs worked around submerged vegetation and timber Structure Jigs flipped to cypress trees and dock pilings Spinnerbaits slow-rolled over shallow brush Wacky Rigs worked slowly around vertical cover	Shad schooling in pre-spawn staging areas Bluegill beginning to move shallow with warming trends Minnows around dock and brush pile areas	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	55-65	Transitioning from winter patterns to spawning areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawn Moving from deeper winter haunts to staging areas near spawning flats, particularly active during warming trends Becoming increasingly aggressive as water temperatures rise, with peak feeding during stable weather	Secondary points adjacent to spawning pockets, especially those with brush in 4-7 foot range Shallow creek channels leading to spawning flats Cypress trees and brush piles near transition areas to spawning flats	Shakey Heads worked slowly around brush and cypress trees Lipless Crankbaits parallel to creek channels Bladed Jigs around shallow cover during warming trends	Shad schooling in pre-spawn patterns Bluegill beginning to move shallow Blueback herring following temperature breaks	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Pre-spawn crappie are transitioning from deep winter holding areas to shallower staging areas, becoming more active with warming water Fish are schooling and feeding more aggressively as they prepare for spawn, particularly during warmer afternoon periods	Secondary points and creek channels leading to spawning coves, typically in 8-15 feet of water Brush piles and standing timber on transition routes between winter and spawning areas Protected coves with abundant structure, particularly on the northern banks that warm first	Crappie Spider Rigging for methodically working transition areas and suspended fish Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) to cover water and locate active schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around brush piles and timber	Small shad and minnows suspending near structure Young-of-year baitfish beginning to become more active in warming water	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	58-68	Catfish becoming more active as water warms, moving from deep winter holes to shallower feeding areas near structure Pre-spawn feeding increases with fish staging near spawning areas like cypress trees and brush piles Most active during dawn and dusk periods, using complex shoreline features for ambush feeding	Shallow creek channels and ditches near cypress trees (6-12 feet) Brush piles adjacent to deeper water (8-15 feet) Protected coves with standing timber Secondary points with gradual slopes leading to spawning areas	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or whole shad Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near structure Texas Rigs (Worming) with large soft plastics	Bluegill gathering in pre-spawn areas Shad schools in creek channels and coves Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Pre-spawn striped bass actively feeding and staging near spawning tributaries, following large schools of shad in transition areas Fish making frequent movements between deeper channels and shallow flats as they prepare for spawning, particularly active during morning and evening hours	Main lake points and creek mouths near spawning tributaries Shallow flats adjacent to deeper channels Standing timber areas where shad schools congregate	Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended fish schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled along depth transitions Hard Jerkbaits worked erratically in shallow areas	Schooling Shad concentrated in pre-spawn areas Small Baitfish gathering in warming shallow waters	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	58-68	Pre-spawn bluegill are beginning to move from deeper wintering areas to warming shallow flats, transitioning through staging areas near drop-offs Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with peak activity during mid-morning and afternoon hours when waters warm	Protected coves with submerged vegetation near drop-offs Shallow flats adjacent to cypress trees and standing timber Brush piles in 6-10 foot depths near spawning areas	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep near cover Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly through brush piles Live Bait Rigs near staging areas	Small insects and larvae emerging with warming water Small crustaceans around vegetation Zooplankton in the upper water column	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	56-65	Bass are in various spawning phases with males on beds and females cruising nearby spawning pockets, as evidenced by reports showing 56-65°F water temperatures Fish are utilizing shallow cover near deep water access, particularly around docks, cypress trees, and lily pads for spawning activities	Docks with close proximity to deep water, especially those in spawning pockets Cypress trees and stumps in varying depths Lily pads in protected spawning areas	Wacky Rigs - multiple reports show success, especially around stumps and docks Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) - effective for precise presentations around cover Frogs/Toads - particularly effective around lily pads and shallow cover	Bluegill - primary forage mentioned in multiple spring reports Shad - part of diverse forage base noted in lake profile	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-68	Spotted bass in spring spawning phase moving into shallow water (2-6 feet) around hard cover, particularly brush piles and cypress trees Males aggressively guarding nests while females stage on nearby deeper structure between spawning movements Feeding actively but sporadically, with focus on protecting spawning areas rather than pursuing forage	Protected shallow pockets with firm bottom near cypress trees (2-6 feet) Brush piles in 4-7 foot range adjacent to spawning flats Secondary points leading into spawning pockets	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover and bedding areas Shakey Heads worked slowly around staging areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for covering water between spots	Bluegill starting to move shallow Shad concentrating in spawning pockets Blueback herring starting their spring movements	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie moving into shallow spawning areas (2-8 feet) near shoreline structure, particularly in protected coves and around brush Males establishing and guarding nests while females stage slightly deeper, creating multiple fishing opportunities	Protected shallow coves with brush or standing timber Shallow dock areas in 2-8 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning coves	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) Bobbers Crappie Dock Shooting	Small minnows in shallow areas Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Catfish moving to shallower spawning areas near cypress trees and brush piles in 5-10 feet of water Males actively guarding nesting sites while females stage in nearby deeper water Increased feeding activity during dawn and dusk periods as water temperatures rise	Shallow flats near cypress tree root systems in 4-8 feet of water Brush piles adjacent to spawning areas in 8-12 feet Protected coves with standing timber	Live Bait Rigs with bottom presentation Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around timber	Bluegill concentrated in spawning areas Shad schools in creek channels Crawfish active in woody cover	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Striped bass are actively moving into tributary arms and upper lake sections for spawning, often staging in pre-spawn areas near creek channels and points Fish are schooling aggressively and feeding heavily before the spawn, particularly during early morning and evening periods Males arrive first at spawning areas, with larger females staging slightly deeper until ready to spawn	Main lake points and channel swings adjacent to tributary arms Shallow flats near deep water in the backs of major creeks Standing timber areas along creek channels leading to spawning flats	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Spinnerbaits Hard Jerkbaits Umbrella Rigs	Pre-spawn shad schools gathering in tributary arms Smaller baitfish moving shallow with warming water	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Aggressive spawning behavior in shallow protected areas, with males guarding nests and females staging nearby Multiple waves of spawning activity due to subtropical climate, with fish moving between shallow feeding and bedding areas	Protected shallow coves with lily pads and cypress trees in 2-4 feet of water Shallow areas near docks and brush piles providing spawning habitat Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Bobbers with small live bait or soft plastics suspended 1-3 feet deep around spawning areas Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to structure Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly around bedding areas	Small insects and larvae around vegetation Small crawfish in shallow areas Newly hatched fry and minnows	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-79	Post-spawn bass are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, becoming more active but scattered across different depth zones Fish are showing finicky behavior during weather changes, requiring slower presentations and responding well to falling baits Bass are utilizing shade and cover during bright conditions, particularly around cypress trees and dock areas	Cypress trees in 3-5 feet of water, especially those providing shade Docks with nearby deep water access Flooded brush and timber in main lake pockets where water clarity changes	Texas Rigs worked slowly around timber and brush Wacky Rigs for finicky fish, especially around docks Shakey Heads with slow hop-and-pause retrieve in timber areas	Shad moving into post-spawn patterns Bluegill in shallow areas around cover	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	65-75	Post-spawn spotted bass are actively recovering and beginning to feed aggressively, primarily in the 4-7 foot depth range around brush and other cover Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, utilizing points and creek channel swings near spawning pockets	Brush piles and cypress trees in 4-7 foot range, especially those near spawning pockets Secondary points with access to deeper water Dock edges with brush or shade, particularly in protected pockets	Shakey Heads worked slowly around brush and cypress trees Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for actively feeding fish Texas Rigs (Worming) for precise presentations in cover	Bluegill gathering in shallow areas Shad schools starting to group up Blueback herring moving along points	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	65-75	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are suspending near vertical cover in loose schools, gradually moving to deeper structure	Brush piles and standing timber in 8-15 feet of water adjacent to spawning flats Dock edges and corners with adequate depth and shade Secondary points with vertical cover near spawning bays	Crappie Spider Rigging - excellent for covering water and keeping baits in the strike zone Crappie Dock Shooting - perfect for targeting fish holding under docks Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) - effective for picking apart brush piles	Small shad and minnows in the 1-2 inch range Young-of-year baitfish beginning to school	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Post-spawn catfish actively feeding and recovering energy, moving to areas with abundant forage near shallow to mid-depth structure Establishing regular feeding patterns around structure, particularly active during low light periods around cypress trees and brush piles	Cypress tree root systems in 8-15 feet of water Brush piles near channel edges Secondary points with standing timber	Live Bait Rigs with bottom bouncing presentation Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Texas Rigs (Worming) near structure	Bluegill concentrated around shallow structure Shad schools moving into shallow areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	62-72	Post-spawn striped bass are actively feeding to recover energy, forming loose schools following shad in the water column Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper main lake areas, using points and channel edges as migration routes Feeding activity is most intense during early morning and late evening, with fish moving shallower during these periods	Main lake points adjacent to spawning pockets, especially those with standing timber Channel edges where depths transition from shallow flats to deeper water Wind-blown shorelines with irregular features where bait gets concentrated	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along depth transitions Umbrella Rigs for actively feeding schools Spinnerbaits around timber and points in low light	Large schools of threadfin and gizzard shad Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge Blueback herring in deeper areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegill are actively feeding to recover energy, moving between shallow cover and nearby deeper areas Fish are establishing summer patterns, congregating around structure in 4-8 foot depths with easy access to deeper water	Cypress trees and standing timber in 4-8 feet of water Outer edges of lily pad fields near deeper water access Brush piles and dock structures in protected coves	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep near vertical cover Inline Spinners worked slowly around structure edges Live Bait Rigs with crickets or worms near cover	Insects and larvae around vegetation Small crustaceans near woody cover	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	70-89	Bass are establishing summer patterns, relating heavily to shade and cover during daylight hours, particularly around cypress trees and lily pads Feeding activity peaks early morning and late evening, with fish moving between deeper water and shallow cover throughout the day	Lily pads adjacent to cypress trees, especially those creating shade pockets Submerged vegetation in 5-10 foot depth range Standing timber and cypress trees with adjacent deeper water	Frogs/Toads worked over lily pads, especially during morning hours and in shaded areas Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) slow-rolled through submerged vegetation Shakey Heads worked around cypress tree bases	Bluegill concentrated around shallow cover and vegetation Shad relating to timber and deeper edges of vegetation	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Spotted Bass	75-89	During summer, spotted bass are actively feeding but move deeper during midday heat, typically holding in 8-15 foot depths near structure Fish are most active during early morning and evening, moving shallower to ambush prey around cover Spotted bass are keying on shad and blueback herring schools in the stained water conditions	Brush piles in 4-7 foot depth range, especially those near deeper water access Shaded dock areas with nearby depth changes Points and creek channel intersections with wood cover	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around brush and docks for precise presentations Shakey Heads for pressure-sensitive fish, especially during bright conditions Spinnerbaits early and late in the day around shallow cover Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along deeper edges of cover	Shad schools suspending near cover Blueback herring in open water areas Bluegill around shallow brush and docks	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Crappie	72-85	Crappie are suspending near vertical cover (brush piles, standing timber, docks) in depths of 8-15 feet during summer, moving deeper during bright midday periods Fish are actively feeding during early morning and evening periods, focusing on shad and minnow schools around structure	Shaded dock areas with 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings Brush piles positioned on flats near deeper water Standing timber edges where baitfish schools are present	Crappie Dock Shooting - highly effective for reaching fish holding tight under docks during summer heat Crappie Spider Rigging - excellent for methodically working suspended fish around brush piles Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') - effective for targeting specific pieces of cover once fish are located	Shad schools suspending near structure Small minnows relating to brush and timber	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Summer	Catfish	75-85	Catfish are actively feeding during night hours and early morning, seeking cooler, oxygen-rich areas during peak summer heat Fish are utilizing brush piles and cypress tree root systems as ambush points, moving between shallow and deeper areas based on temperature	Cypress tree root systems in 8-15 feet of water Brush piles near ledges and drop-offs Deep water structure adjacent to shallow feeding flats	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around cypress trees Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through brush piles	Bluegill concentrating around structure Shad schools in open water and near drop-offs	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	72-86	Striped bass seeking thermal refuge in deeper channels and holes during daylight hours, typically suspending near thermocline Early morning and late evening feeding activity in shallower water, actively pursuing shad schools Fish become more lethargic during peak heat, requiring slower presentations	Deep channels and holes near standing timber, especially where depth exceeds 15 feet Points and creek mouths with access to deep water Brush piles adjacent to deeper water that provide current breaks	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers or lead core line to target suspended fish Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are holding tight to structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) during low light periods when fish are actively feeding	Shad schools suspending in deeper water during day Shad moving to shallow areas during dawn/dusk periods	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	75-89	Actively feeding in and around shallow vegetation and structure during early morning and evening hours Moving to slightly deeper adjacent areas during bright midday periods, especially near docks and brush piles Multiple spawning cycles possible in subtropical climate, with some fish still on beds while others return to feeding patterns	Lily pad fields and submerged vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Shaded areas under docks and cypress trees in 4-8 feet Brush piles adjacent to vegetation in 6-10 feet	Bobbers with small live bait or artificial presentations around vegetation Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding under structures Inline Spinners worked slowly through openings in vegetation	Small insects and larvae in vegetation Small crustacea and zooplankton Newly hatched fry from multiple spawns	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Marion

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	68-80	Bass are actively feeding on shad and blueback herring, following baitfish migrations into creeks and coves Fish are relating heavily to woody cover, particularly deep-water laydowns and cypress trees, using them as ambush points	Laydowns and fallen trees near cypress trees, especially those extending into deeper water Matted grass areas in shallow water Docks and dock posts with nearby cover	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked around laydowns and timber Wacky Rigs worked slowly around cypress trees and docks Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) in matted grass and heavy cover Spinnerbaits around timber and reed edges	Blueback Herring schooling in creek mouths and around timber Shad moving into creeks and coves Crawfish around woody cover and matted grass	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	58-72	Actively chasing shad schools in creek arms and shallow flats, with increased feeding activity during cooling water periods Transitioning between summer deep water areas and fall feeding zones, using brush piles as staging areas Most aggressive during early morning and late evening, utilizing ambush points near bait concentrations	Shallow brush piles in 4-7 foot range near creek channel swings Main lake points with access to deeper water Dock areas adjacent to deeper water in creek arms	Shakey Heads worked slowly around brush piles and dock posts Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for actively feeding fish chasing shad Spinnerbaits parallel to shoreline structure in low light conditions	Shad schools moving into creeks and backs of pockets Bluegill relating to shallow cover Blueback herring on main lake points	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Crappie	58-72	Schools of crappie begin transitioning from shallow summer patterns to deeper winter holding areas, staging at mid-depth structure Feeding activity increases as fish bulk up for winter, with most active periods during dawn and dusk Fish suspend near vertical cover and along depth changes, following baitfish schools	Brush piles and standing timber in 12-18 feet of water near creek channels Deep dock edges adjacent to depth changes Main lake points with vertical structure transitioning to winter areas	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along depth transitions to locate active schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') once schools are located Crappie Spider Rigging for precise depth control in stained water	Schooling shad in mid-depth ranges Small minnows relating to brush piles Young-of-year baitfish congregating near structure	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Catfish	55-72	Catfish are transitioning to deeper, more stable water temperatures while actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter Feeding activity is concentrated around structure-rich areas, particularly during dawn and dusk periods	Deep ledges with proximity to feeding flats Brush piles and standing timber in 10-19 feet of water Cypress tree root systems near deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Carolina Rigs	Bluegill Shad	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	62-75	Striped bass actively schooling and chasing shad schools in the main lake and coves, particularly during early morning and late evening feeding periods Fish transitioning between deeper main lake areas and shallower feeding zones based on water temperature and bait movement Aggressive feeding behavior as fish build energy reserves for winter, often creating surface feeding frenzies when corralling bait	Main lake points and channel intersections where shad schools congregate Standing timber areas adjacent to deep water channels Protected coves where bait balls gather, especially during windy conditions	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked at various depths to match shad movements Umbrella Rigs for mimicking larger bait balls in open water Spinnerbaits worked along timber edges and points during low light conditions Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are holding deeper on structure	Large schools of threadfin and gizzard shad Scattered schools of blueback herring Young-of-year baitfish gathering in schools	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	55-72	Panfish are actively schooling and feeding heavily to build energy reserves for winter, concentrating around remaining vegetation and structure Fish are gradually transitioning to deeper water as temperatures cool, but still making periodic moves to shallow areas during warm afternoons	Deep edges of lily pad fields and submerged vegetation in 8-12 feet Brush piles and standing timber in 10-15 feet of water Protected coves with remaining vegetation, especially near deeper water access	Live Bait Rigs suspended at key depths around structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small jigs around vegetation edges Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) when fish are more scattered	Small invertebrates and insects around remaining vegetation Young-of-year baitfish schooling in deeper water Zooplankton in areas with moderate vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	53-68	Bass are schooling around baitfish in deeper water, with groups staging near deep structure and winter sanctuary areas Fish are actively feeding during warming trends, especially when water temperatures are in the mid-50s	Deep brush piles and standing timber adjacent to deeper water Main lake points and ditches with access to deeper water Areas where shad are congregating, typically 20 feet off the shoreline	Umbrella Rigs around baitfish schools Hard Jerkbaits worked slowly near brush and timber Shakey Heads when fish are less active or pressure is high	Shad schools in open water and near structure Bluegill relating to brush piles and timber	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	48-55	Spotted bass are concentrated in deeper water near main lake structure, often schooling with shad and blueback herring Fish are less active but will feed opportunistically during stable weather patterns and warming trends	Deep brush piles adjacent to creek channels in 15-25 foot range Main lake points with access to deeper water Steep bluff walls near deep water access	Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended fish Drop Shot with small profile baits for pressured fish Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along rocky points during warming trends	Shad schools in deeper water Blueback herring suspended in the water column Small bluegill near remaining brush cover	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	45-52	Crappie are schooled up in deep water, primarily relating to brush and structure in 20' depth ranges Fish are actively chasing bait schools in deeper water, with limited movement into creek arms	Deep brush piles and structure in 20' of water Ledges with vertical structure Main lake points with access to deep water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Crappie Spider Rigging	Minnows Shad	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Catfish	48-55	Catfish become more lethargic and concentrate in deeper, stable temperature areas, typically moving less but still feeding opportunistically during warmer parts of the day Fish tend to school more tightly in winter, often gathering in numbers around prime structure with proximity to deep water	Deep ledges near standing timber, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range Brush piles adjacent to creek channels or deeper coves Deep water areas near cypress tree stands, especially where root systems meet deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with slow, bottom-focused presentation Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure Trolling Deep (20'+) along ledges and channel edges	Winter-stressed or dying shad Bluegill holding in brush piles Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and crawfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Striped Bass	53-57	Actively schooling and feeding on shad schools in open water, with periods of pushing bait against shoreline structure Most active during low light periods, using complex shoreline features as ambush points	Main lake points and irregular shoreline features where shad are being corralled Standing timber and brush piles near deeper channels Open water areas where shad schools are present	Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended bait schools Blade Baits worked vertically through bait schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) cast to shoreline structure	Shad (primary forage confirmed by multiple reports) Other baitfish utilizing shoreline structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	45-55	Panfish are concentrating in deeper brush piles and standing timber, typically schooling tightly in these areas for warmth and protection Feeding activity is reduced but still occurs during stable weather periods, with fish being most active during mid-day warming trends	Deeper brush piles and standing timber in 12-13 foot depth range Protected coves with submerged structure near deeper water access Deep dock areas that provide both cover and stable temperatures	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Drop Shot	Small aquatic insects Dormant zooplankton Small minnows	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Marion

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Cypress trees adjacent to deeper water, especially those near spawning flats	Brush piles in 4-7 foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Secondary points adjacent to spawning pockets, especially those with brush in 4-7 foot range	Shallow creek channels leading to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Secondary points and creek channels leading to spawning coves, typically in 8-15 feet of water	Brush piles and standing timber on transition routes between winter and spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shallow creek channels and ditches near cypress trees (6-12 feet)	Brush piles adjacent to deeper water (8-15 feet)
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points and creek mouths near spawning tributaries	Shallow flats adjacent to deeper channels
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves with submerged vegetation near drop-offs	Shallow flats adjacent to cypress trees and standing timber
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks with close proximity to deep water, especially those in spawning pockets	Cypress trees and stumps in varying depths
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Protected shallow pockets with firm bottom near cypress trees (2-6 feet)	Brush piles in 4-7 foot range adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected shallow coves with brush or standing timber	Shallow dock areas in 2-8 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shallow flats near cypress tree root systems in 4-8 feet of water	Brush piles adjacent to spawning areas in 8-12 feet
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points and channel swings adjacent to tributary arms	Shallow flats near deep water in the backs of major creeks
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow coves with lily pads and cypress trees in 2-4 feet of water	Shallow areas near docks and brush piles providing spawning habitat
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Cypress trees in 3-5 feet of water, especially those providing shade	Docks with nearby deep water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Brush piles and cypress trees in 4-7 foot range, especially those near spawning pockets	Secondary points with access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Brush piles and standing timber in 8-15 feet of water adjacent to spawning flats	Dock edges and corners with adequate depth and shade
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Cypress tree root systems in 8-15 feet of water	Brush piles near channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points adjacent to spawning pockets, especially those with standing timber	Channel edges where depths transition from shallow flats to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Cypress trees and standing timber in 4-8 feet of water	Outer edges of lily pad fields near deeper water access
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Lily pads adjacent to cypress trees, especially those creating shade pockets	Submerged vegetation in 5-10 foot depth range
Summer	Spotted Bass	Brush piles in 4-7 foot depth range, especially those near deeper water access	Shaded dock areas with nearby depth changes
Summer	Crappie	Shaded dock areas with 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings	Brush piles positioned on flats near deeper water
Summer	Catfish	Cypress tree root systems in 8-15 feet of water	Brush piles near ledges and drop-offs
Summer	Striped Bass	Deep channels and holes near standing timber, especially where depth exceeds 15 feet	Points and creek mouths with access to deep water
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Lily pad fields and submerged vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Shaded areas under docks and cypress trees in 4-8 feet
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns and fallen trees near cypress trees, especially those extending into deeper water	Matted grass areas in shallow water
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shallow brush piles in 4-7 foot range near creek channel swings	Main lake points with access to deeper water
Fall	Crappie	Brush piles and standing timber in 12-18 feet of water near creek channels	Deep dock edges adjacent to depth changes
Fall	Catfish	Deep ledges with proximity to feeding flats	Brush piles and standing timber in 10-19 feet of water
Fall	Striped Bass	Main lake points and channel intersections where shad schools congregate	Standing timber areas adjacent to deep water channels
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep edges of lily pad fields and submerged vegetation in 8-12 feet	Brush piles and standing timber in 10-15 feet of water
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Deep brush piles and standing timber adjacent to deeper water	Main lake points and ditches with access to deeper water
Winter	Spotted Bass	Deep brush piles adjacent to creek channels in 15-25 foot range	Main lake points with access to deeper water
Winter	Crappie	Deep brush piles and structure in 20' of water	Ledges with vertical structure
Winter	Catfish	Deep ledges near standing timber, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range	Brush piles adjacent to creek channels or deeper coves
Winter	Striped Bass	Main lake points and irregular shoreline features where shad are being corralled	Standing timber and brush piles near deeper channels
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deeper brush piles and standing timber in 12-13 foot depth range	Protected coves with submerged structure near deeper water access

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling in pre-spawn staging areas	Bluegill beginning to move shallow with warming trends
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schooling in pre-spawn patterns	Bluegill beginning to move shallow
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Small shad and minnows suspending near structure	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to become more active in warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill gathering in pre-spawn areas	Shad schools in creek channels and coves
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Schooling Shad concentrated in pre-spawn areas	Small Baitfish gathering in warming shallow waters
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae emerging with warming water	Small crustaceans around vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill - primary forage mentioned in multiple spring reports	Shad - part of diverse forage base noted in lake profile
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Bluegill starting to move shallow	Shad concentrating in spawning pockets
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Small minnows in shallow areas	Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill concentrated in spawning areas	Shad schools in creek channels
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Pre-spawn shad schools gathering in tributary arms	Smaller baitfish moving shallow with warming water
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around vegetation	Small crawfish in shallow areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad moving into post-spawn patterns	Bluegill in shallow areas around cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Bluegill gathering in shallow areas	Shad schools starting to group up
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Small shad and minnows in the 1-2 inch range	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to school
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill concentrated around shallow structure	Shad schools moving into shallow areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Large schools of threadfin and gizzard shad	Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Insects and larvae around vegetation	Small crustaceans near woody cover
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrated around shallow cover and vegetation	Shad relating to timber and deeper edges of vegetation
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schools suspending near cover	Blueback herring in open water areas
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending near structure	Small minnows relating to brush and timber
Summer	Catfish	Bluegill concentrating around structure	Shad schools in open water and near drop-offs
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools suspending in deeper water during day	Shad moving to shallow areas during dawn/dusk periods
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae in vegetation	Small crustacea and zooplankton
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Blueback Herring schooling in creek mouths and around timber	Shad moving into creeks and coves
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shad schools moving into creeks and backs of pockets	Bluegill relating to shallow cover
Fall	Crappie	Schooling shad in mid-depth ranges	Small minnows relating to brush piles
Fall	Catfish	Bluegill	Shad
Fall	Striped Bass	Large schools of threadfin and gizzard shad	Scattered schools of blueback herring
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates and insects around remaining vegetation	Young-of-year baitfish schooling in deeper water
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools in open water and near structure	Bluegill relating to brush piles and timber
Winter	Spotted Bass	Shad schools in deeper water	Blueback herring suspended in the water column
Winter	Crappie	Minnows	Shad
Winter	Catfish	Winter-stressed or dying shad	Bluegill holding in brush piles
Winter	Striped Bass	Shad (primary forage confirmed by multiple reports)	Other baitfish utilizing shoreline structure
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects	Dormant zooplankton

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Marion

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