How to Fish Lewis and Clark Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

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Lewis and Clark Lake

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

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lewis and Clark Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Largemouth bass are transitioning from winter locations to pre-spawn staging areas, following warming trends and actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish are moving along migration routes towards spawning areas, holding on transition areas and actively feeding during warmer parts of the day	Reed and grass points, especially those with current flow Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow flats adjacent to deeper wintering areas	Spinnerbaits worked with current along vegetation edges Lipless Crankbaits parallel to emerging vegetation Swim Jigs around sparse reed patches	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish schools in warming shallows	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Smallmouth bass are transitioning from winter deep-water areas to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are relating heavily to current breaks and moving water areas which provide oxygen-rich environments and concentrated bait Weather fronts significantly impact activity levels, with fish more aggressive during stable warming trends	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 foot depth adjacent to spawning flats Current breaks near river channel intersections Transition areas where rock meets softer bottom in 5-12 foot depth	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom through current seams Ned Rigs dragged on rocky transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved steadily through the water column	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish concentrated in current areas Young of year perch in rocky areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Pre-spawn walleye are staging near spawning areas and actively feeding during low-light periods, especially given the moderately stained water (2.3m secchi) Fish are utilizing current areas and hard-bottom transition zones near deeper water as staging areas, with increased activity during wind-influenced periods	Main lake points with access to deeper water, particularly those with hard bottom or riprap Current-swept areas near river channel edges Secondary points in bays leading to potential spawning areas	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') Blade Baits Live Bait Rigs	Shad (primary forage base noted in lake profile) Small yellow perch moving shallow for spawn	Vibrant Assorted Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-58	Pre-spawn Northern Pike are moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow spawning grounds, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are primarily relating to emerging vegetation and warmer water pockets, especially in protected bays and near reed beds Aggressive feeding behavior during warming trends, with pike targeting larger prey items for maximum energy gain	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation and reed beds Channels and current breaks leading to spawning areas Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays	Spinnerbaits worked slowly along vegetation edges Hard Jerkbaits with extended pauses near transition areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for mimicking pre-spawn forage Live Bait Rigs positioned near spawning area access points	Large Shad concentrating in warming shallows Congregating Minnow schools near spawning areas Early season Yellow Perch in transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	42-55	Pre-spawn sturgeon are transitioning from winter depths to spawning areas, following deeper river channels and staging near tributary mouths Feeding activity increases as water warms, with fish actively searching bottom areas for invertebrates and smaller fish	Deep river channels with adjacent flats (15-25 feet) Tributary mouths and connecting channels Rocky areas and gravel beds near current breaks	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom in deeper channels Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near channel edges Trolling Deep (20'+) along defined channel edges	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates (crayfish, insect larvae) Small baitfish (particularly shad) Night crawlers and aquatic worms	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	55-65	Pre-spawn catfish are beginning to move from winter deep-water haunts to warming shallower areas, particularly focusing on current seams and channel edges Feeding activity increases as water temperatures rise, with fish most active during dawn and dusk periods Fish staging near spawning areas but still maintaining access to deeper water	River channel edges where deep water meets flats Current breaks near points with access to deeper water Submerged vegetation edges near deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live bluegill positioned near current breaks Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Bottom fishing with weighted rigs in areas with current	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas Bluegill becoming more active in warming shallows Various bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish becoming more active	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	55-65	Bluegills are transitioning from deeper wintering areas to warmer, shallow flats in preparation for spawning Fish are actively feeding on insects and small invertebrates near emerging vegetation Most active during mid-morning and afternoon when water temperatures peak	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 3-8 feet of water Transition areas between deep wintering holes and spawning flats Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays with vegetation	Bobbers with light jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep near vegetation Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through transition areas Inline Spinners retrieved steadily in clearer shallow areas	Emerging aquatic insects and larvae Small crustaceans near vegetation Young-of-year baitfish in warmer shallows	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-65	Largemouth bass moving into shallow spawning areas (2-6 feet) near vegetation and protected shorelines Males building and guarding nests while females stage in slightly deeper water nearby Increased aggression and territorial behavior around nesting sites	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom near vegetation Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow areas adjacent to deeper water near lily pad fields	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting visible beds and spawning areas Wacky Rigs worked slowly around spawning areas Soft Jerkbaits for pre-spawn staging fish	Bluegill and sunfish around spawning areas Shad in slightly deeper staging areas Crawfish emerging in warming shallows	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	52-65	Pre-spawn to spawning smallmouth bass moving from winter areas to shallow spawning flats, particularly near current breaks and rock structure Males actively guarding nests in 2-5 foot depths, becoming increasingly aggressive toward intruders Females staging in slightly deeper water adjacent to spawning areas, moving up periodically	Rocky flats and points in 2-5 foot depths, especially those near current breaks Hard-bottom areas adjacent to deeper water for staging fish Protected coves and bays with rock or gravel bottom	Tubes worked slowly around spawning areas Ned Rigs for finesse presentation to spooky fish Soft Jerkbaits for aggressive reaction strikes	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish in warming shallows Young of year panfish	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Pre-spawn walleye staging near spawning areas, with peak activity during dawn and dusk due to moderate water staining (2.3m secchi) Fish moving from wintering areas to shallow rocky areas and current-influenced locations for spawning Males arrive first and stay longer on spawning areas, while females move in and out quickly	Rocky points and riprap areas near deeper water access River channel edges and current seams Hard bottom transitions in 8-15 foot depth range	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom near spawning areas Live Bait Rigs with minnows near current areas Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to shoreline structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Resident shad schools Small perch in shallow areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-58	Northern Pike concentrated in shallow spawning areas, particularly reed beds and grassy bays where water warms first Post-spawn fish remain shallow but transition to feeding stations near current breaks and vegetation edges	Reed beds and emergent vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Protected shallow bays with soft bottom Current-swept points with emerging vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through spawning areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve Live Bait Rigs near spawning areas	Spawning shad in shallow areas Shallow water minnows Young of year panfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	42-58	Sturgeon are congregating in deeper river channels and moving into shallower spawning areas with hard bottom and current Fish are less focused on feeding and more on reproductive activities, though they will opportunistically feed during pre and post-spawn periods	River channel confluences with rock or gravel bottom in 8-15 feet of water Areas where deeper channels meet shallow flats with current breaks Rocky points and reefs near channel edges with good current flow	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) focusing on channel edges and transitional areas	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small crustaceans Small fish and shad in pre-spawn staging areas	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Catfish actively moving into shallower spawning areas like reed beds and coves, especially during dawn and dusk periods Males preparing and guarding nest sites in protected areas with firm bottom composition Increased feeding activity in pre-spawn phase, followed by reduced feeding during actual spawning	Protected coves and bays with reed beds in 3-8 feet of water Current seams near river channel entrances Shallow flats adjacent to deeper channels	Live Bait Rigs with fresh cut bait or live bluegill Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near spawning areas Bottom fishing with weighted rigs in current seams	Bluegill and small panfish Shad schools Bottom-dwelling invertebrates	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively moving into shallow spawning areas (2-6 feet) and establishing nesting colonies, particularly aggressive during nest guarding Feeding patterns become more predictable as fish remain in spawning areas, with peak activity during morning and evening hours	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and vegetation edges, especially areas with scattered lily pad growth Secondary points leading into spawning bays with mixed vegetation Shallow coves with scattered reeds and matted grass in 2-6 foot depths	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep, worked slowly around spawning areas Micro Crankbaits worked parallel to vegetation edges Inline Spinners retrieved slowly through spawning colonies	Small insects and larvae around vegetation Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge Small crustaceans in vegetation beds	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-75	Post-spawn bass are actively feeding to recover energy, particularly around submerged vegetation edges in 3-8 foot depths Fish are showing aggressive reaction strikes on moving baits, especially on wind-blown shorelines before weather changes	Shallow submerged vegetation edges, especially on wind-blown shorelines Secondary points with emerging vegetation near spawning bays Protected coves with vegetation in 3-8 foot depths	Spinnerbaits with hybrid blades worked through and around submerged vegetation Swim Jigs paralleling weed edges and through scattered vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for a more subtle approach in clearer water	Minnows in and around vegetation Young of the year shad beginning to emerge	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning between spawning flats and early summer patterns Fish are utilizing current breaks and oxygen-rich areas, particularly during warming trends	Rock piles and rip rap adjacent to spawning flats in 2-5 feet Current seams near river channel intersections Secondary points with hard bottom structure leading to deeper water	Ned Rigs worked slowly along rock transitions Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') around current breaks Tubes dragged through rocky areas	Crawfish emerging in rocky areas Small baitfish in current seams	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-62	Actively feeding walleye moving to post-spawn recovery areas, particularly utilizing current seams and points for ambush feeding Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, primarily active during low light periods due to moderate staining	Points and rip rap areas adjacent to deeper water Current seams and river channel edges Emerging weed edges in 8-15 foot depth range	Lipless Crankbaits worked along transition areas Live Bait Rigs with leeches or minnows Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to shoreline structure	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-winter patterns Small perch in transitional areas Minnows congregating near emerging vegetation	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	55-65	Northern Pike are actively patrolling reed beds and vegetation edges in post-spawn recovery mode, making frequent feeding passes to regain energy Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior in shallow water, particularly around current breaks and grass edges	Reed beds in 3-8 feet of water, especially those adjacent to deeper water Current breaks near grassy points Vegetation edges bordering main lake access	Live Bait Rigs with cutbait on circle hooks Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') Spinnerbaits worked along vegetation edges	Shad Various Minnow Species Young-of-year Fish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	48-65	Post-spawn sturgeon are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily focusing on bottom-dwelling prey in transitional areas between deep channels and flats Fish are making daily movements between deeper holding areas in river channels and shallower feeding zones, especially during dawn and dusk periods	Deep river channels adjacent to feeding flats (15-25 feet) Current breaks near complex shoreline structures where channels meet flats Areas with rock piles and vegetation that hold concentrations of prey species	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) in river channels with natural bait Trolling Deep (20'+) along channel edges with bottom bouncing presentations	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates (insects, crayfish, mollusks) Shad and other baitfish concentrated near bottom structure	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	58-72	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily during dawn and dusk periods, with increased activity near current breaks and channel edges Fish are transitioning from deeper wintering areas to shallower feeding zones, especially where current concentrates forage	River channel edges and current seams where deeper water meets shallower flats Submerged vegetation edges near reed beds where baitfish concentrate Points and irregular shoreline features that intersect with current breaks	Live Bait Rigs with cut bluegill or shad positioned near current breaks Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges during daylight hours Bottom bouncing Texas Rigs (Worming) with scented baits near structure	Shad schools congregating near current breaks and vegetation Bluegill establishing in shallow areas near reed beds Various bottom-dwelling forage in channel areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	62-72	Post-spawn bluegills are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting insects and small invertebrates in and around vegetation Fish are establishing summer patterns, moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper resting zones near vegetation edges	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and lily pads in 2-4 feet of water Edges of reed beds where they meet slightly deeper water Protected coves with stable water temperatures	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 1-3 feet below surface Inline Spinners worked slowly through vegetation edges Micro Crankbaits retrieved steadily parallel to weed edges	Aquatic insects and larvae Small invertebrates Young-of-year shad fry	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	68-75	Actively feeding in and around heavy vegetation, particularly during dawn and dusk, with surface activity noted around bug hatches Holding in depths of 1-4 feet around matted grass, reeds, and cattails during prime feeding periods Moving between shallow cover and slightly deeper adjacent areas as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day	Matted grass and tall cattails in shallow water Reed beds, especially those adjacent to slightly deeper water Vegetation edges where shallow and deeper water meet	Frogs/Toads worked across matted vegetation Swim Jigs around reed edges and vegetation gaps Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges	Surface insects and emerging bug hatches Shad moving along weed edges Various baitfish utilizing vegetation for cover	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	55-75	Actively feeding in current areas and around rip rap, showing aggressive behavior with water temps ranging from mid-50s to mid-70s Transitioning between pre-spawn and summer patterns, utilizing both shallow and deeper structure depending on water temperature	Rip rap banks along main river channel in 2-5ft depth Current seams near fast water in river channels Points with drop-offs	Ned Rigs drifted with current Deep Diving Crankbaits along rip rap Drop Shot on point drop-offs	Crawfish around rocky structure Minnows in current areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Walleye	65-82	During summer, walleye become more nocturnal in this moderately stained system (2.3m secchi), with peak activity during dawn, dusk, and nighttime. They also tend to follow baitfish schools, particularly shad, and utilize current areas for feeding opportunities. Fish will generally hold deeper during bright midday periods, moving shallower to feed during lower light conditions. Wind-driven currents significantly influence feeding activity.	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, particularly in areas with current influence River channel edges and current seams, especially where they intersect with structure Wind-swept points and rip-rap areas during periods of active water movement	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and channel breaks with consistent depth curves Live Bait Rigs near structure and along edges during slower periods Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for active fish relating to baitfish schools	Shad schools, particularly in areas with current or wind-driven movement Yellow Perch relating to weed edges and structure Various minnow species utilizing current seams and vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	65-75	Northern Pike are actively patrolling grass edges and current breaks near reed beds, primarily feeding during early morning and evening hours Fish are holding in ambush positions along vegetation edges, particularly where current intersects with cover	Grassy points with active current flow, especially those adjacent to deeper water Reed beds with defined edges near current areas Secondary points with mixed vegetation in 4-8 feet of water	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to grass edges Spinnerbaits worked along reed edges and through scattered vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near current breaks	Shad concentrating around vegetation edges Young-of-year baitfish in grass beds	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Sturgeon	65-82	Sturgeon actively feeding in deeper river channels and transition areas, moving between feeding zones during early morning and evening hours During mid-day, fish holding in deeper holes with current breaks, especially near complex structure	Deep river channels intersecting with shallow flats, especially areas with current breaks Areas where reeds and rock piles meet deeper water, creating structure for prey items Complex bottom structure areas in 15-25 foot depth range with current influence	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near channel edges and current breaks	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and aquatic insects Shad and other small baitfish near bottom structure	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Catfish	72-85	Active feeding in early morning and late evening near current seams and channel edges Holding in deeper river channels during peak daylight hours Moving between deep sanctuaries and shallow feeding zones along channel edges	Deep river channels and chutes, especially where they intersect with points Current seams near submerged vegetation Deep holes adjacent to shallow feeding flats	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live bluegill in deeper areas Texas Rigs (Worming) with large soft plastics near vegetation Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) in river channels during midday	Shad schools concentrated in current areas Bluegill near vegetated areas and shallow flats Various bottom-dwelling prey in deep channels	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	During summer, bluegills will be actively feeding in and around vegetation, particularly during early morning and evening hours Fish will move between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper sanctuary areas as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day	Weed edges and pockets within lily pad fields in 4-8 feet of water Protected coves with matted grass and reed beds Deeper weed edges in 8-12 feet for midday sanctuary	Bobbers with small jigs suspended at varying depths around vegetation Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') along weed edges Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through gaps in vegetation	Aquatic insects and larvae around vegetation Young-of-year shad in open water pockets Small crustaceans in and around weed beds	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Light Neutral Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lewis and Clark Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	62-71	Bass are actively feeding on young-of-year shad and minnows around dying vegetation, particularly lily pads that still have some life Fish are transitioning between shallow feeding areas and deeper staging areas as water temperatures cool from low 70s to low 60s	Dying lily pad fields that still maintain some green growth and clear water Matted grass in sloughs and backwater areas Deep water access points near vegetated areas for staging	Spinnerbaits worked around dying vegetation edges Frogs/Toads over matted grass in shallow water Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) to imitate abundant young shad	Young-of-year Shad schooling around vegetation Minnows concentrated near remaining green vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Shad Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	67-71	Actively chasing shad in rocky areas, showing aggressive feeding behavior on moving baits Utilizing current seams near reeds and rock piles as ambush points for feeding opportunities	Rock piles near river channel edges with active current Reed lines in areas with current flow Rocky points and shorelines where shad schools are present	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to structure Swim Jigs retrieved at moderate speeds through shad schools Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) worked around reed edges	Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depth ranges Crawfish active around rocky structure and reed edges	Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Walleye	52-65	Walleye actively chasing shad schools in deeper water, with increased feeding activity during low-light periods due to moderate staining Fish relating strongly to current areas and river channel edges, using these as primary feeding zones Movement patterns shifting between 15-25 foot depths, following baitfish schools and responding to weather changes	Main river channel edges where current concentrates baitfish Deep points adjacent to flats where shad schools congregate Wind-swept shorelines with rip-rap or hard bottom structure	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with steady presentations along channel edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are actively feeding on bait schools Blade Baits worked aggressively through bait schools	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Young-of-year baitfish gathering near channel edges Remaining shallow water baitfish moving to deeper structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Northern Pike	48-62	Northern Pike are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following baitfish schools and utilizing ambush points near deeper structure Fish are making daily movements between deeper holding areas and shallower feeding zones, particularly during low-light periods	Deep weed edges adjacent to points and current breaks (8-15 feet) Remaining green reed beds near deeper water access Current-swept points with scattered vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and through scattered vegetation Trolling Shallow (0-9') with diving crankbaits parallel to weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled through transitional areas	Shad schools congregating in deeper bays Remaining shallow water minnows Young-of-year panfish	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Sturgeon	52-65	Sturgeon are actively feeding in deeper river channels adjacent to flats, preparing for winter by increasing caloric intake Fish are staying in areas with current breaks and utilizing transitional depths between deep channels and shallow flats	Deep river channels adjacent to feeding flats Current breaks near complex bottom structure Transitional areas between deep and shallow water with good current flow	Live Bait Rigs with circle hooks fished along bottom Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Deep (20'+)	Bottom-dwelling insects and invertebrates Small baitfish in deeper channels Crawfish near rocky structure	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Catfish	55-68	Actively feeding near current seams and points to build energy reserves for winter, with increased activity during falling temperatures Moving between deep channel areas and feeding zones near structure, particularly active during lowlight periods	Points near current seams and river channel intersections Deep river channels and chutes with adjacent structure Areas where submerged vegetation meets deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with cut bluegill positioned near current breaks Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) in channel edges during daylight hours Carolina Rigs worked slowly through transitional areas between deep and shallow water	Bluegill and other sunfish Shad schools concentrated near structure Bottom-dwelling forage in deeper channels	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	55-65	Transitioning to deeper water as vegetation dies off, with increased schooling behavior Actively feeding to build reserves for winter, focusing on remaining insect hatches and small baitfish	Deep weed edges where dying vegetation meets deeper water (8-15 feet) Protected backwater areas with remaining green vegetation River channel edges adjacent to flats (12-20 feet)	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Finesse Hair Jigs	Late-season aquatic insects Young-of-year shad Small crustaceans	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	38-48	Largemouth bass become more lethargic and concentrate in deeper, stable water areas with reduced movement during open water winter conditions Bass seek out areas with minimal current and tend to school more tightly, often suspending near structure or holding tight to bottom	Deep main lake points adjacent to creek channels (15-25 feet) Protected coves with deep water access (12-20 feet) Deep dock structures near channel swings	Drop Shot with slow, subtle movements to target suspended fish Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom structure Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) retrieved slowly along points and channel edges	Schooling shad in deeper water Small bottom-oriented baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	38-45	Smallmouth bass are concentrated in deeper wintering areas near current breaks and river channel edges, typically suspending in loose schools Fish become more active during stable weather patterns and will move up to feed on rocky structure adjacent to deeper wintering holes	Deep river channel bends with adjacent rock piles (15-25 feet) Current breaks near deep water that provide winter sanctuary Rocky points and riprap areas that drop into river channels	Blade Baits worked vertically with slow lifts and long pauses Drop Shot with subtle movements near bottom structure Tubes dragged slowly along bottom transitions Spybaits fished with a slow, horizontal presentation	Small baitfish concentrated in deeper water Dormant crawfish in rocky areas Suspended shad schools near channel edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Winter	Walleye	34-42	Fish are concentrating near dam structures and rip rap areas, holding in deeper water and making periodic feeding movements along rock transitions Given the stained water conditions (2.3m secchi), walleye are likely to be most active during low-light periods but will feed throughout the day in these visibility conditions	Dam area rip rap and adjacent deep water transitions Deep river channel edges near current breaks Deep structural elements near primary points	Blade Baits worked with a slow retrieve along bottom transitions Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near dam structure Live Bait Rigs along deep edges of rip rap	Shad concentrations near deep structure Small panfish using rock transitions	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	45-58	Northern Pike actively feed near deeper structure when water temperatures are above 45°F, targeting schooling shad and minnows Pike position near current breaks, points, and vegetation edges for ambush opportunities in moderate to deep water	Deep weed edges and scattered reed beds in 15-20 foot depths Current-swept points with access to deep water Deeper bays with remaining vegetation and baitfish schools	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with steady retrieve along weed edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near active baitfish schools Blade Baits worked through deeper structure	Schooling shad in deeper water Various minnow species relating to structure Remaining panfish near vegetation edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Sturgeon	34-45	Sturgeon concentrate in deeper river channels and holes during winter, typically moving less but still feeding opportunistically Fish tend to hold in areas with current breaks near deep holes, especially where channels intersect with structural elements	Deep river channels with depths over 20 feet, especially near confluences or bends Current breaks where deep channels meet structural elements like rock piles Transitional areas between river channels and adjacent flats where food collects	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along channel edges and deep holes Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigs in current seams Trolling Deep (20'+) along channel edges with bottom-bouncing rigs	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small mollusks Small fish and minnows collecting in deeper holes Dead or dying shad that sink to channel bottoms	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Catfish	38-45	Catfish become more lethargic and concentrate in deeper, stable temperature areas like river channels and deep holes Feeding windows are shorter but more predictable, typically during warmer parts of the day Fish tend to school more tightly in winter, often gathering in large numbers in prime holding areas	Deep river channels and chutes with depths over 20 feet Current breaks and eddies near channel bends Deep holes adjacent to winter forage concentrations	Live Bait Rigs with minimal movement Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Trolling Deep (20'+)	Concentrated schools of shad Winter-stressed bluegill Small bottom-dwelling fish	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	45-55	Panfish are schooling tightly in deeper water, typically suspending near structure or in river channel areas Feeding activity is concentrated during prime daylight hours, with fish moving slightly shallower during peak sunlight periods Fish are responding to subtle presentations, with a preference for smaller profile baits	Deep river channels adjacent to backwater areas, particularly in 15-20 foot depths Deeper holes near dying vegetation edges Protected coves with remaining vegetation structure	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Drop Shot Damiki Rig	Small insects and larvae Young-of-year shad Micro invertebrates	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lewis and Clark Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Reed and grass points, especially those with current flow	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and rip rap in 8-15 foot depth adjacent to spawning flats	Current breaks near river channel intersections
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Main lake points with access to deeper water, particularly those with hard bottom or riprap	Current-swept areas near river channel edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation and reed beds	Channels and current breaks leading to spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Deep river channels with adjacent flats (15-25 feet)	Tributary mouths and connecting channels
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	River channel edges where deep water meets flats	Current breaks near points with access to deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 3-8 feet of water	Transition areas between deep wintering holes and spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom near vegetation	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky flats and points in 2-5 foot depths, especially those near current breaks	Hard-bottom areas adjacent to deeper water for staging fish
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and riprap areas near deeper water access	River channel edges and current seams
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Reed beds and emergent vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Protected shallow bays with soft bottom
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	River channel confluences with rock or gravel bottom in 8-15 feet of water	Areas where deeper channels meet shallow flats with current breaks
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Protected coves and bays with reed beds in 3-8 feet of water	Current seams near river channel entrances
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and vegetation edges, especially areas with scattered lily pad growth	Secondary points leading into spawning bays with mixed vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow submerged vegetation edges, especially on wind-blown shorelines	Secondary points with emerging vegetation near spawning bays
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and rip rap adjacent to spawning flats in 2-5 feet	Current seams near river channel intersections
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Points and rip rap areas adjacent to deeper water	Current seams and river channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Reed beds in 3-8 feet of water, especially those adjacent to deeper water	Current breaks near grassy points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Deep river channels adjacent to feeding flats (15-25 feet)	Current breaks near complex shoreline structures where channels meet flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	River channel edges and current seams where deeper water meets shallower flats	Submerged vegetation edges near reed beds where baitfish concentrate
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and lily pads in 2-4 feet of water	Edges of reed beds where they meet slightly deeper water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Matted grass and tall cattails in shallow water	Reed beds, especially those adjacent to slightly deeper water
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Rip rap banks along main river channel in 2-5ft depth	Current seams near fast water in river channels
Summer	Walleye	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, particularly in areas with current influence	River channel edges and current seams, especially where they intersect with structure
Summer	Northern Pike	Grassy points with active current flow, especially those adjacent to deeper water	Reed beds with defined edges near current areas
Summer	Sturgeon	Deep river channels intersecting with shallow flats, especially areas with current breaks	Areas where reeds and rock piles meet deeper water, creating structure for prey items
Summer	Catfish	Deep river channels and chutes, especially where they intersect with points	Current seams near submerged vegetation
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges and pockets within lily pad fields in 4-8 feet of water	Protected coves with matted grass and reed beds
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Dying lily pad fields that still maintain some green growth and clear water	Matted grass in sloughs and backwater areas
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles near river channel edges with active current	Reed lines in areas with current flow
Fall	Walleye	Main river channel edges where current concentrates baitfish	Deep points adjacent to flats where shad schools congregate
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to points and current breaks (8-15 feet)	Remaining green reed beds near deeper water access
Fall	Sturgeon	Deep river channels adjacent to feeding flats	Current breaks near complex bottom structure
Fall	Catfish	Points near current seams and river channel intersections	Deep river channels and chutes with adjacent structure
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep weed edges where dying vegetation meets deeper water (8-15 feet)	Protected backwater areas with remaining green vegetation
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Deep main lake points adjacent to creek channels (15-25 feet)	Protected coves with deep water access (12-20 feet)
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep river channel bends with adjacent rock piles (15-25 feet)	Current breaks near deep water that provide winter sanctuary
Winter	Walleye	Dam area rip rap and adjacent deep water transitions	Deep river channel edges near current breaks
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges and scattered reed beds in 15-20 foot depths	Current-swept points with access to deep water
Winter	Sturgeon	Deep river channels with depths over 20 feet, especially near confluences or bends	Current breaks where deep channels meet structural elements like rock piles
Winter	Catfish	Deep river channels and chutes with depths over 20 feet	Current breaks and eddies near channel bends
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep river channels adjacent to backwater areas, particularly in 15-20 foot depths	Deeper holes near dying vegetation edges

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish schools in warming shallows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish concentrated in current areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad (primary forage base noted in lake profile)	Small yellow perch moving shallow for spawn
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Large Shad concentrating in warming shallows	Congregating Minnow schools near spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates (crayfish, insect larvae)	Small baitfish (particularly shad)
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas	Bluegill becoming more active in warming shallows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Emerging aquatic insects and larvae	Small crustaceans near vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill and sunfish around spawning areas	Shad in slightly deeper staging areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Resident shad schools
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Spawning shad in shallow areas	Shallow water minnows
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small crustaceans	Small fish and shad in pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill and small panfish	Shad schools
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around vegetation	Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Minnows in and around vegetation	Young of the year shad beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging in rocky areas	Small baitfish in current seams
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-winter patterns	Small perch in transitional areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shad	Various Minnow Species
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates (insects, crayfish, mollusks)	Shad and other baitfish concentrated near bottom structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools congregating near current breaks and vegetation	Bluegill establishing in shallow areas near reed beds
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small invertebrates
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Surface insects and emerging bug hatches	Shad moving along weed edges
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish around rocky structure	Minnows in current areas
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools, particularly in areas with current or wind-driven movement	Yellow Perch relating to weed edges and structure
Summer	Northern Pike	Shad concentrating around vegetation edges	Young-of-year baitfish in grass beds
Summer	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and aquatic insects	Shad and other small baitfish near bottom structure
Summer	Catfish	Shad schools concentrated in current areas	Bluegill near vegetated areas and shallow flats
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae around vegetation	Young-of-year shad in open water pockets
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Young-of-year Shad schooling around vegetation	Minnows concentrated near remaining green vegetation
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depth ranges	Crawfish active around rocky structure and reed edges
Fall	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Young-of-year baitfish gathering near channel edges
Fall	Northern Pike	Shad schools congregating in deeper bays	Remaining shallow water minnows
Fall	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling insects and invertebrates	Small baitfish in deeper channels
Fall	Catfish	Bluegill and other sunfish	Shad schools concentrated near structure
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Late-season aquatic insects	Young-of-year shad
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Schooling shad in deeper water	Small bottom-oriented baitfish
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Small baitfish concentrated in deeper water	Dormant crawfish in rocky areas
Winter	Walleye	Shad concentrations near deep structure	Small panfish using rock transitions
Winter	Northern Pike	Schooling shad in deeper water	Various minnow species relating to structure
Winter	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small mollusks	Small fish and minnows collecting in deeper holes
Winter	Catfish	Concentrated schools of shad	Winter-stressed bluegill
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Young-of-year shad

Bait Colors by Season for Lewis and Clark Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Vibrant Assorted Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Sturgeon	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Shad Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Sturgeon	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Winter	Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Sturgeon	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors