How to Fish Lake Tohopekaliga: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Tohopekaliga

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

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Tohopekaliga

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-68	Bass are transitioning to spawning areas, actively feeding while seeking warmer water temperatures near shoreline structure Fish showing pre-spawn behavior with increased activity near shallow cover, evidenced by reports of damaged tails and bleeding	Shallow docks and seawalls with adjacent deeper water Hydrilla flats in 9 feet of water with tops at 5 feet Rip rap banks and creek channels Scattered reed beds near spawning flats	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) to visible cover Lipless Crankbaits ripped through submerged vegetation	Bluegill gathering in shallow areas Shad schools in creek channels and near vegetation edges	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Gar	65-75	Gar becoming more active as water warms, moving from deeper wintering areas to shallower pre-spawn staging areas near vegetation Primarily feeding during daylight hours, utilizing lateral line sensing in turbid conditions to ambush prey along vegetation edges	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 4-8 feet of water Protected coves with emerging vegetation Points and channel swings adjacent to shallow spawning flats	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along vegetation edges Texas Rigs (Worming) with large soft plastics parallel to weed lines Spinnerbaits slow-rolled through transition areas	Shad schools moving into pre-spawn staging areas Various sunfish species becoming more active in warming waters	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	58-68	Staging in pre-spawn areas near shallow flats and moving into warmer protected coves Actively feeding during warming trends, particularly during mid-morning to early afternoon Congregating around emerging vegetation and structure in 2-4 foot depths	Protected shallow coves with emerging vegetation Docks and standing timber in 2-4 feet of water Transition areas between shallow flats and slightly deeper water	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 12-24 inches deep Crappie Dock Shooting around structure Inline Spinners worked slowly near vegetation	Small insects and larvae around emerging vegetation Small minnows in shallow areas Zooplankton in warmer shallow zones	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Pre-spawn catfish are becoming more active and starting to move from deeper winter areas to warming shallower flats, particularly around structure Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased activity during warmer parts of the day	Deep channel edges near Shingle Creek with current, especially where they meet flats Dock areas and seawalls in 5-10 foot depths with nearby deep water access Riprap areas and wood structure that absorb heat during the day	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around dock posts and wood cover Carolina Rigs worked slowly along channel edges	Shad concentrating in creek channels and around structure Bluegill beginning to move shallow near vegetation edges Various bottom-dwelling creatures becoming more active in warming waters	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	58-65	Chain pickerel are becoming more active as water temperatures rise, moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow vegetation edges and creek mouths for pre-spawn staging Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with aggressive ambush behavior particularly during dawn and dusk periods	Vegetation edges and gaps in 1-4 foot depth range, especially near flowing water areas Creek mouth areas where baitfish concentrate Shallow coves with emerging vegetation, particularly on the north-facing banks that warm first	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically along vegetation edges Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through gaps in vegetation Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to weed edges	Shad congregating near creek mouths and warming shallow areas Small minnows in vegetation edges Young of year panfish beginning to emerge in vegetated areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-65	Limited smallmouth activity expected due to sub-optimal habitat and high water temperatures, but any present will be seeking pre-spawn staging areas near harder bottom or scattered rock if available Fish will be transitioning from winter depths to shallower pre-spawn locations, but may struggle to find suitable spawning habitat in this system	Deeper dock areas with potential hard bottom or rock Deeper creek channel bends with any available rock or gravel Transition areas between vegetation and slightly deeper water	Drop Shot with smaller profile baits worked slowly Ned Rigs dragged along bottom near structure Tubes worked slowly near deeper structure	Small Shad Juvenile Bluegill Small Bottom-dwelling prey	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-75	Bass are actively engaged in spawning behavior, with males guarding beds near docks and vegetation as evidenced by recent reports Fish are showing aggressive territorial responses, particularly around shallow cover and spawning areas Movement patterns indicate fish transitioning between pre-spawn staging areas and spawning flats	Submerged vegetation edges and grass mats in spawning flats Docks providing overhead cover near spawning areas River channels and creek mouths serving as staging areas	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly around beds and cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) along weed edges Bladed Jigs ripped through vegetation Frogs/Toads over matted grass	Bluegill in shallow areas around vegetation Minnows along weed edges Shad in slightly deeper water near creek channels	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Gar	68-78	Gar are entering shallow, vegetated areas for spawning, often found in groups during daylight hours Feeding activity increases as water warms, with fish becoming more aggressive near vegetation edges and in backwater areas	Shallow vegetated bays and hydrilla beds in 2-4 feet of water Vegetation edges and breaks in 4-6 feet of water Protected coves with emergent vegetation	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly near surface above vegetation Hard Topwater (Walking) with steady retrieve along weed edges Frogs/Toads worked across vegetation mats	Shad congregating in spawning areas Small sunfish in vegetation Juvenile baitfish in backwater areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Staging in shallow, protected areas near potential spawning sites (2-4 feet) during pre-spawn, actively defending nests during spawn Most active during morning and evening hours, with males guarding nests throughout the day Congregating in areas with submerged vegetation and near docks where water warms fastest	Protected coves with firm bottom and vegetation in 2-4 feet of water Shallow areas adjacent to docks with submerged vegetation Shallow bays where water warms first with scattered timber	Bobbers with small live bait or soft plastics suspended 1-2 feet deep Crappie Dock Shooting around structure Light Texas Rigs (Worming) with small soft plastics near beds	Small insects and larvae Tiny shad and minnows Small crustaceans	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Moving into shallow spawning areas near docks, seawalls, and riprap, becoming more territorial and aggressive Males guarding nests while females stage in nearby deeper water after spawning Increased feeding activity during dawn and dusk, but also active during day due to turbid conditions	Riprap banks and seawalls in 3-8 feet of water Dock areas with wood structure near deeper water access Current areas in Shingle Creek with adjacent spawning flats	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live bluegill positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around dock posts and wood cover Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting visible structure and spawning areas	Bluegill gathering in spawning areas Shad schools in creek channels and around structure Crawfish active in riprap and rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	58-68	Chain pickerel are actively spawning in shallow, vegetated areas, particularly around the edges of hydrilla beds and creek mouths Fish are more aggressive and territorial during spawn, defending nesting areas and striking at passing prey Post-spawn fish remain shallow but transition to active feeding patterns around vegetation edges	Shallow vegetation edges and pockets in 1-4 foot depth range Creek mouth areas where moving water meets vegetation Protected coves with submerged vegetation	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically along vegetation edges Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through gaps in vegetation Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges	Shad congregating in creek mouths and shallow flats Young-of-year baitfish emerging in vegetated areas Small sunfish in spawning areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	68-78	Limited smallmouth presence, but any present will be seeking spawning areas in protected zones where temperatures are more moderate (75-78°F) Fish that are present will be most active during early morning and late evening to avoid peak temperatures	Protected coves with firm bottom and sparse vegetation where water temperatures are most stable Areas near dock pilings that offer both cover and firmer bottom composition Transition areas between vegetation and slightly deeper water	Tubes worked slowly along dock pilings and firm bottom areas Ned Rigs with subtle presentations in clearer pockets Soft Jerkbaits with erratic retrieves during low light periods	Shad congregating in spawning areas Bluegill beginning their pre-spawn activities	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	72-82	Post-spawn bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding but staying relatively shallow near abundant cover Fish are showing strong preference for shaded areas during daylight hours, particularly around wood and dock structures Bass are exhibiting opportunistic feeding behavior around vegetation edges and grass lines	Docks and wooden structure providing shade, especially in 1-3 foot depths Hydrilla patches and grass bed edges Sparse pad fields near deeper water access	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly around cover Bladed Jigs near vegetation edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) over submerged grass	Bluegill in shallow cover areas Shad along vegetation edges	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Gar	68-78	Gar becoming more active as water warms post-spawn, actively hunting in vegetation edges and breaks Primarily using lateral line sensing in turbid conditions, relying on ambush tactics near structure	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 4-10 feet of water Hydrilla bed margins where shad congregate Protected coves with submerged vegetation	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along vegetation edges Hard Body Swimbaits retrieved with occasional pauses near structure Texas Rigs (Worming) worked through vegetation breaks	Shad schools congregating near vegetation Various smaller fish utilizing weed edges	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	72-82	Post-spawn bluegill moving to feeding areas near shallow weed edges and dock structures in 2-4 feet, actively feeding to recover energy Fish establishing daily patterns between shaded cover and nearby feeding zones, most active during morning and evening hours	Weed edges and grass lines in 2-4 feet of water Shaded areas under and around docks with submerged vegetation Shallow coves with standing timber and vegetation	Bobbers with small finesse jigs worked slowly around vegetation edges Crappie Dock Shooting with micro jigs under structures Live Bait Rigs near weed edges and timber	Small insects and larvae around vegetation Juvenile shad in shallow areas Small crustaceans in weed beds	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	68-78	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding to recover energy, taking advantage of warmer water temperatures and increased baitfish activity Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper feeding zones, particularly around current areas and woody structure	Deep channel edges in Shingle Creek with current, especially near wood structure Submerged timber and dock areas in 8-15 foot depths Riprap areas and seawalls adjacent to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with weight appropriate for current Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Carolina Rigs worked slowly along depth changes	Shad schools moving along channel edges Bluegill spawning in shallower areas Various bottom-dwelling creatures like crawfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	58-72	Post-spawn chain pickerel are actively feeding to recover energy, utilizing vegetation edges and creek mouths as ambush points Fish are primarily holding in 1-4 foot depths around hydrilla and submerged vegetation, moving in and out of cover to ambush prey	Vegetation edges and gaps between hydrilla patches in 1-4 foot depths Shingle Creek and flowing water areas where baitfish concentrate Shallow coves with submerged vegetation near points	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically along vegetation edges Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through gaps in vegetation Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges	Shad congregating in creek mouths and flowing water areas Various minnow species utilizing vegetated areas Young-of-year panfish beginning to emerge in the shallows	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	65-75	Smallmouth bass will likely be extremely stressed in this system due to water temperatures already exceeding their preferred range during post-spawn. Fish that are present will seek the deepest, coolest water available, likely relating to any current or water movement. Feeding activity will be limited to early morning and late evening when temperatures are most tolerable, with fish becoming lethargic during mid-day heat	Any areas with current or water movement that might provide more oxygenated water Deeper dock areas that provide shade and slightly cooler water Any isolated rocky areas or hard bottom that might be present, especially near deeper water	Drop Shot with small profile baits worked slowly in deeper water Tubes dragged slowly along bottom structure Ned Rigs worked with minimal movement to trigger reaction strikes	Small Shad Juvenile Bluegill	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	84-89	Bass are establishing definite feeding windows during early morning and late evening, seeking shade and deeper water during mid-day heat Fish are actively feeding along vegetation edges and drop-offs, moving between shallow and deeper water based on time of day Aggressive strikes reported near structure when shade is present, indicating opportunistic feeding behavior	Submerged vegetation edges in 4-5 feet of water, particularly near deeper water access Creek channel drop-offs with depths ranging from 10-18 feet Shaded areas near docks and standing timber in 1-4 feet of water	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along vegetation edges and drop-offs Frogs/Toads during early morning hours over matted vegetation Structure Jigs worked along hydrilla edges and through brush piles	Bluegill in shallow water around vegetation Shad relating to creek channels and deeper structure	Dark Neutrals Purple Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Gar	75-90	Gar are actively feeding in warm summer conditions, primarily targeting shad around vegetation edges and dock areas Fish are using submerged vegetation as ambush points, particularly during daylight hours when they can be seen striking at baitfish	Edges and gaps between submerged vegetation beds in 4-10 foot depths Areas under and adjacent to docks with nearby vegetation Vegetation breaks and transition zones where ambush opportunities exist	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked with bouncing retrieve to imitate injured baitfish Hard Topwater (Walking) worked near vegetation edges for visible strikes Soft Jerkbaits with erratic retrieves to trigger reaction strikes	Shad schools around vegetation Small sunfish in vegetation beds	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	75-87	Actively feeding in shallow zones (2-4 feet) during early morning and evening hours, seeking insect life and small forage fish near vegetation Moving to slightly deeper water or shaded areas under docks during peak daylight hours for temperature refuge Engaging in spawning activities in protected shallow areas, particularly around vegetation and natural structure	Shaded areas under docks with adjacent vegetation Weed edges and grass lines in 2-4 feet of water Protected coves with submerged vegetation	Bobbers with small live bait or artificial presentations, suspended at 2-3 feet depth Inline Spinners worked slowly through vegetation edges Micro Crankbaits retrieved near dock structures	Aquatic insects and larvae around vegetation Small shad and baitfish Zooplankton in and around vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Catfish	78-87	Catfish are actively feeding during low-light periods, concentrating around deep channel edges and structure during the day due to high summer temperatures Taking advantage of current areas in Shingle Creek to ambush prey, especially during dawn and dusk feeding periods	Deep channel drops in Shingle Creek (10-18 feet) with current Submerged wood structure (stumps, standing timber) adjacent to deeper water Dock areas with depth transitions, especially those near creek channels	Live Bait Rigs positioned near structure and current breaks Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through wood structure	Shad schools concentrated in current areas Bluegill around dock structures and vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Chain Pickerel	75-87	Chain pickerel are actively ambushing prey from vegetation edges, particularly in gaps between hydrilla and submerged grass Fish are holding shallow (1-4 feet) in vegetated areas, using cover to escape summer heat while maintaining feeding opportunities	Gaps and transitions between different vegetation types, especially hydrilla edges Submerged grass beds in 1-4 foot depth range Areas where flowing water meets vegetation, particularly around Shingle Creek	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly along vegetation edges Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically through vegetation gaps	Shad Various Minnow Species Small Sunfish	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	84-87	Smallmouth bass will be seeking deeper, cooler water refuges but will be severely stressed due to water temperatures (84-87°F) well above their optimal range (65-75°F) Feeding activity will be minimal and primarily focused on dawn/dusk periods when temperatures are slightly lower	Any available deep water areas that might provide thermal refuge Shaded areas under docks offering slightly cooler water Areas with stronger current or water movement that might provide more oxygenated water	Drop Shot with minimal movement to target inactive fish Tubes worked slowly along bottom structure Shakey Heads with subtle presentations	Shad in open water areas Bluegill near structure Small baitfish seeking shade	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Tohopekaliga

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	62-75	Bass actively chasing shad schools in current areas and around structure, with increased feeding activity due to fall transition Fish positioning near brush piles and moving water, taking advantage of baitfish concentrations	Brush piles near current areas and creek channel edges Grass line edges adjacent to deeper water Offshore structure near baitfish schools	Bladed Jigs with slow rolling retrieval near structure Spinnerbaits worked along grass edges Lipless Crankbaits through baitfish schools	Shad schools congregating near structure Bluegill in remaining vegetation	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Gar	68-82	Gar are transitioning to slower, more deliberate feeding patterns as water temperatures begin to cool, but remain active in the vegetation edges and breaks Fish are likely to school more heavily around concentrated bait pods of shad, using vegetation as ambush points	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 4-8 feet of water Hydrilla bed points and irregularities where shad congregate Protected coves with submerged vegetation where bait schools gather	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along vegetation edges Texas Rigs (Worming) with rope-style baits near vegetation breaks Hard Topwater (Walking) early and late in the day when shad are surface feeding	Shad schools congregating in vegetation areas Small sunfish utilizing vegetation cover	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Panfish transitioning from shallow summer patterns to deeper staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter Schooling behavior increases, with fish gathering around key structure in 4-8 foot depth range Most active feeding during morning and late afternoon, following baitfish movements	Weed edges where vegetation meets deeper water, especially near points Dock structures with deeper water access Standing timber in 4-8 foot depth range	Crappie Dock Shooting Live Bait Rigs Micro Crankbaits Inline Spinners	Small shad and minnows Aquatic insects Small crawfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Catfish	68-78	Catfish are actively feeding to build fat reserves for winter, taking advantage of baitfish schools in creek channels and around structure Fish are transitioning from summer deep water patterns to more moderate depths, following baitfish movements	Deep channel edges in Shingle Creek where current concentrates baitfish Submerged wood structure (stumps and timber) in 8-15 foot depths Areas where hydrilla beds meet deeper water channels	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or live bluegill positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Carolina Rigs worked slowly through transition areas	Shad schools congregating in creek channels Bluegill relating to vegetation edges Various small fish species using remaining vegetation as cover	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Chain Pickerel	58-72	Chain pickerel become increasingly active in fall as water temperatures cool, staging aggressive feeding patterns to build energy reserves Fish are actively patrolling vegetation edges and creek mouths, ambushing prey with short, explosive strikes Movement patterns shift toward shallower areas during morning and evening, following baitfish schools	Edges of hydrilla beds near flowing water entrances, especially Shingle Creek Vegetation gaps and transitions in 1-4 foot depth range Points and coves with submerged vegetation adjacent to deeper water	Inline Spinners worked parallel to vegetation edges Soft Jerkbaits with erratic retrieve near vegetation gaps Spinnerbaits worked through transition areas between vegetation types	Shad schools congregating near creek mouths and vegetation edges Minnows seeking shelter in vegetation Small sunfish relating to vegetation	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	84-87	Fish likely stressed and scattered due to warm water temperatures (84-87°F) well above smallmouth comfort zone May seek deeper water or shaded areas near docks for temperature refuge	Deeper dock areas providing shade and temperature refuge Scattered stumps in deeper water away from thick vegetation Areas with water movement or current that may provide more oxygenated water	Drop Shot with finesse presentations around docks Tubes worked slowly near deeper structure Ned Rigs with subtle presentations in shaded areas	Shad schools in open water Bluegill around dock structures	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	58-72	Bass are schooling on baitfish in clean, hard-bottom areas away from grass, actively feeding when bait schools are present Fish are spreading out in hydrilla beds but also utilizing dock areas and creek channels as staging points Most active feeding periods occur during warmer parts of day, with fish holding tight to cover in colder periods	Clean, hard-bottom areas offshore where baitfish are schooling Creek channels, particularly Shingle Creek, near structure Docks and trees in 8-10 feet of water Scattered hydrilla beds, especially near depth changes	Alabama Rig with willow leaf blades when fish are actively schooling Jerkbaits worked slowly in open water areas Texas-rigged worms around docks and trees Soft body swimbaits when following active bait schools	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports) Baitfish schools in open water areas	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Gar	52-65	Gar remain active but move slower in winter, preferring deeper water near vegetation edges for ambush opportunities Feeding periods are shorter and less aggressive, with fish most active during warmer parts of the day	Deep weed edges in 8-10 feet of water, especially near channel intersections Deeper holes adjacent to hydrilla beds where shad school for winter refuge Protected coves with stable water temperature, particularly those with remaining vegetation	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through deeper water Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near bait schools Live Bait Rigs with slow presentation	Shad schools congregating in deeper water Small sunfish near remaining vegetation Smaller baitfish seeking winter refuge in deeper areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	52-58	Panfish are congregating in deeper water near vertical structure, particularly around standing timber and deeper dock edges Schools are tightly packed and less active, requiring slower presentations and precise targeting Fish are making occasional movements to shallower water during warmer periods, especially near vegetation edges	Deep dock edges in 8-12 feet of water with nearby standing timber Channel swings near submerged vegetation in 6-10 feet Protected coves with remaining green vegetation in 4-8 feet	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Drop Shot Live Bait Rigs	Small invertebrates and zooplankton near remaining vegetation Smaller shad suspended near structure Dormant insects in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Winter	Catfish	58-65	Catfish are concentrating in deeper channels and creek areas, particularly in Shingle Creek's 10-18 foot drops, seeking more stable water temperatures Fish are less active but still feeding, especially during warmer parts of the day, taking advantage of the relatively warm Florida climate The turbid water conditions (1.5m Secchi) allow catfish to remain somewhat active even during daylight hours	Deep channel areas in Shingle Creek with current, especially around the 10-18 foot drops Deep wooden structure areas near channel edges Deep holes near current breaks and riprap areas	Live Bait Rigs with weight to maintain bottom contact in deeper areas Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around structure and channel edges Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged slowly along bottom near structure	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Bluegill holding tight to structure Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Chain Pickerel	45-58	Chain pickerel remain active in winter, utilizing vegetation edges and moving water areas near creek mouths for ambush feeding Fish concentrate in shallower areas (1-4 feet) during warmer parts of day, especially near remaining green vegetation Feeding becomes more deliberate and methodical, with fish preferring slower-moving prey	Creek mouth areas where flowing water meets lake, especially near vegetation Edges and gaps between hydrilla beds in 1-4 foot depths Protected coves with remaining green vegetation	Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly with long pauses Inline Spinners retrieved at moderate speeds parallel to vegetation edges Live Bait Rigs with shiners near creek mouths	Shad congregating in deeper creek channels Small sunfish in vegetation Minnows seeking warmer water in protected areas	Bold Striped Patterns Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	65-75	Due to warm winter temperatures in this Florida lake, smallmouth bass will remain relatively active but will seek deeper, cooler water near main lake points and dropoffs Feeding will be most active during mid-morning to early afternoon when water temperatures are optimal Fish will be challenging to pattern as this lake lacks ideal smallmouth habitat and temperatures remain above preferred range	Deep main lake points with any available hard bottom or rock Deeper dock areas away from heavy vegetation Channel swings with current breaks	Drop Shot with small profile baits worked slowly Blade Baits worked vertically near depth changes Tubes dragged slowly along bottom structure	Shad schools suspended in deeper water Bluegill relating to dock structure Small baitfish near channel edges	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Tohopekaliga

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow docks and seawalls with adjacent deeper water	Hydrilla flats in 9 feet of water with tops at 5 feet
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Gar	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 4-8 feet of water	Protected coves with emerging vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow coves with emerging vegetation	Docks and standing timber in 2-4 feet of water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Deep channel edges near Shingle Creek with current, especially where they meet flats	Dock areas and seawalls in 5-10 foot depths with nearby deep water access
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Vegetation edges and gaps in 1-4 foot depth range, especially near flowing water areas	Creek mouth areas where baitfish concentrate
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Deeper dock areas with potential hard bottom or rock	Deeper creek channel bends with any available rock or gravel
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation edges and grass mats in spawning flats	Docks providing overhead cover near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Gar	Shallow vegetated bays and hydrilla beds in 2-4 feet of water	Vegetation edges and breaks in 4-6 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves with firm bottom and vegetation in 2-4 feet of water	Shallow areas adjacent to docks with submerged vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Riprap banks and seawalls in 3-8 feet of water	Dock areas with wood structure near deeper water access
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shallow vegetation edges and pockets in 1-4 foot depth range	Creek mouth areas where moving water meets vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected coves with firm bottom and sparse vegetation where water temperatures are most stable	Areas near dock pilings that offer both cover and firmer bottom composition
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks and wooden structure providing shade, especially in 1-3 foot depths	Hydrilla patches and grass bed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Gar	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 4-10 feet of water	Hydrilla bed margins where shad congregate
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges and grass lines in 2-4 feet of water	Shaded areas under and around docks with submerged vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Deep channel edges in Shingle Creek with current, especially near wood structure	Submerged timber and dock areas in 8-15 foot depths
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Vegetation edges and gaps between hydrilla patches in 1-4 foot depths	Shingle Creek and flowing water areas where baitfish concentrate
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Any areas with current or water movement that might provide more oxygenated water	Deeper dock areas that provide shade and slightly cooler water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation edges in 4-5 feet of water, particularly near deeper water access	Creek channel drop-offs with depths ranging from 10-18 feet
Summer	Gar	Edges and gaps between submerged vegetation beds in 4-10 foot depths	Areas under and adjacent to docks with nearby vegetation
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Shaded areas under docks with adjacent vegetation	Weed edges and grass lines in 2-4 feet of water
Summer	Catfish	Deep channel drops in Shingle Creek (10-18 feet) with current	Submerged wood structure (stumps, standing timber) adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Chain Pickerel	Gaps and transitions between different vegetation types, especially hydrilla edges	Submerged grass beds in 1-4 foot depth range
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Any available deep water areas that might provide thermal refuge	Shaded areas under docks offering slightly cooler water
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Brush piles near current areas and creek channel edges	Grass line edges adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Gar	Weed edges and vegetation breaks in 4-8 feet of water	Hydrilla bed points and irregularities where shad congregate
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges where vegetation meets deeper water, especially near points	Dock structures with deeper water access
Fall	Catfish	Deep channel edges in Shingle Creek where current concentrates baitfish	Submerged wood structure (stumps and timber) in 8-15 foot depths
Fall	Chain Pickerel	Edges of hydrilla beds near flowing water entrances, especially Shingle Creek	Vegetation gaps and transitions in 1-4 foot depth range
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Deeper dock areas providing shade and temperature refuge	Scattered stumps in deeper water away from thick vegetation
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Clean, hard-bottom areas offshore where baitfish are schooling	Creek channels, particularly Shingle Creek, near structure
Winter	Gar	Deep weed edges in 8-10 feet of water, especially near channel intersections	Deeper holes adjacent to hydrilla beds where shad school for winter refuge
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep dock edges in 8-12 feet of water with nearby standing timber	Channel swings near submerged vegetation in 6-10 feet
Winter	Catfish	Deep channel areas in Shingle Creek with current, especially around the 10-18 foot drops	Deep wooden structure areas near channel edges
Winter	Chain Pickerel	Creek mouth areas where flowing water meets lake, especially near vegetation	Edges and gaps between hydrilla beds in 1-4 foot depths
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep main lake points with any available hard bottom or rock	Deeper dock areas away from heavy vegetation

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill gathering in shallow areas	Shad schools in creek channels and near vegetation edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Gar	Shad schools moving into pre-spawn staging areas	Various sunfish species becoming more active in warming waters
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around emerging vegetation	Small minnows in shallow areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad concentrating in creek channels and around structure	Bluegill beginning to move shallow near vegetation edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shad congregating near creek mouths and warming shallow areas	Small minnows in vegetation edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Small Shad	Juvenile Bluegill
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill in shallow areas around vegetation	Minnows along weed edges
Spring (Spawn)	Gar	Shad congregating in spawning areas	Small sunfish in vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Tiny shad and minnows
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill gathering in spawning areas	Shad schools in creek channels and around structure
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shad congregating in creek mouths and shallow flats	Young-of-year baitfish emerging in vegetated areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad congregating in spawning areas	Bluegill beginning their pre-spawn activities
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill in shallow cover areas	Shad along vegetation edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Gar	Shad schools congregating near vegetation	Various smaller fish utilizing weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around vegetation	Juvenile shad in shallow areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools moving along channel edges	Bluegill spawning in shallower areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shad congregating in creek mouths and flowing water areas	Various minnow species utilizing vegetated areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Small Shad	Juvenile Bluegill
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill in shallow water around vegetation	Shad relating to creek channels and deeper structure
Summer	Gar	Shad schools around vegetation	Small sunfish in vegetation beds
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae around vegetation	Small shad and baitfish
Summer	Catfish	Shad schools concentrated in current areas	Bluegill around dock structures and vegetation
Summer	Chain Pickerel	Shad	Various Minnow Species
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad in open water areas	Bluegill near structure
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools congregating near structure	Bluegill in remaining vegetation
Fall	Gar	Shad schools congregating in vegetation areas	Small sunfish utilizing vegetation cover
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small shad and minnows	Aquatic insects
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in creek channels	Bluegill relating to vegetation edges
Fall	Chain Pickerel	Shad schools congregating near creek mouths and vegetation edges	Minnows seeking shelter in vegetation
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools in open water	Bluegill around dock structures
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports)	Baitfish schools in open water areas
Winter	Gar	Shad schools congregating in deeper water	Small sunfish near remaining vegetation
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates and zooplankton near remaining vegetation	Smaller shad suspended near structure
Winter	Catfish	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Bluegill holding tight to structure
Winter	Chain Pickerel	Shad congregating in deeper creek channels	Small sunfish in vegetation
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools suspended in deeper water	Bluegill relating to dock structure

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Tohopekaliga

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Gar	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Gar	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Gar	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Purple Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Gar	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Chain Pickerel	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Gar	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Chain Pickerel	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Gar	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Winter	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Chain Pickerel	Bold Striped Patterns Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals