How to Fish Ontelaunee Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Ontelaunee Lake

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

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Ontelaunee Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	40-55	Bass are transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging areas, with males moving shallower (2-8ft) while larger females hold slightly deeper on nearby structure Fish are becoming more active with warming temperatures, showing increased feeding activity especially around vegetation edges and shallow cover	Grass lines and weed bed edges adjacent to slightly deeper water Lily pad fields, especially emerging pad stems Standing timber in mid-depth areas Ledges near spawning flats	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) worked slowly through vegetation and pad stems Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) slow-rolled near bottom along grass edges Spinnerbaits with flash/vibration worked through sparse cover Hard Jerkbaits worked with longer pauses between twitches	Minnows - primary forage based on multiple recent reports Crawfish - becoming more active with warming temperatures	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Smallmouth bass transitioning from winter deep areas to pre-spawn staging areas, following channel edges and rock transitions Fish becoming more active with warming trends, making feeding movements into shallower water during peak daily temperatures Gradually increasing aggression as water warms, with fish starting to target crawfish and baitfish more actively	Rocky points and channel bends adjacent to spawning flats Transitions where boulder areas meet creek channels Secondary points with mixed rock and gravel in 8-15 foot depth range	Ned Rigs worked slowly along bottom transitions Blade Baits worked with controlled lifts near channel edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved steadily through staging areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish schools along channel edges Bottom-dwelling aquatic insects	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	48-62	Chain Pickerel moving to warmer, shallow areas near grass edges and points for pre-spawn staging Increased feeding activity during dawn and early morning periods as water temperatures rise Aggressive ambush behavior around emerging vegetation and shoreline structure	Grass edges and emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Protected coves with warming water Points and ledges adjacent to spawning areas	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically along grass edges Spinnerbaits parallel to emerging vegetation Inline Spinners near points and channel edges	Shad congregating in warming shallows Yellow Perch in transitional areas Minnows along grass edges	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	48-62	Crappie are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to staging areas near spawning locations, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are beginning to form pre-spawn schools, suspending near vertical cover and along depth transitions Feeding activity increases as fish prepare for spawning, with most aggressive periods during stable weather	Standing timber areas adjacent to spawning flats, particularly in 8-15 foot depths Creek channel bends near emerging lily pad fields Protected coves and points with submerged vegetation starting to grow	Crappie Spider Rigging for precise depth control around standing timber Hover/Mid-Strolling along creek channels and transition areas Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are tightly schooled near structure	Shad schools beginning to move shallower Small bluegill becoming more active in warming water Zooplankton increasing with spring algae bloom	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	58-68	Snakeheads are transitioning to shallow, vegetated areas as water temperatures reach 60°F, actively feeding in preparation for spawning Fish are concentrating in protected coves with vegetation, showing increased surface activity and aggressive feeding behavior	Lily pad fields in protected coves and backwater areas Vegetation edges near deeper water access Shallow, vegetated flats in warming bays	Frogs/Toads worked slowly across lily pads with periodic pauses Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along vegetation edges Buzzbaits early morning and late evening across open pockets in vegetation	Bluegill congregating in shallow vegetation Amphibians becoming active in shallow areas	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	52-65	Transitioning from winter patterns to shallow pre-spawn staging areas, following warming trends and seeking optimal spawning locations Actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased aggression during stable weather patterns Moving along transition areas between deep winter haunts and shallow spawning areas, especially near creek channels and points	Rocky points and ledges adjacent to potential spawning flats Creek channel bends with rock or vegetation Staging areas near submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depth range	Spinnerbaits worked along transition areas and through vegetation Shakey Heads on rocky points and ledges Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along channel edges	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small bluegill in and around vegetation Shad schools in creek channels	Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-62	Gradually moving from winter deep water locations to shallower pre-spawn staging areas near emerging vegetation Beginning to feed more actively as water temperatures rise, focusing on insects and small invertebrates	Creek channels adjacent to spawning flats where panfish stage before moving shallow Areas of emerging vegetation near shoreline structures Protected coves with early-warming water	Live Bait Rigs with small soft plastics or live bait suspended just off bottom Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly through staging areas Bobbers with adjusted depths to find active fish in the water column	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming waters Tiny crustaceans in vegetation Small minnows gathering in warming shallows	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	55-65	Bass are transitioning to spawning areas, actively moving into shallow zones with lily pads and rocky areas for bedding Fish showing increased feeding activity as they prepare for spawn, particularly around structure transitions Morning and evening periods are prime feeding windows, with fish more active in shallower water	Rocky bottom areas adjacent to spawning flats Emerging lily pad fields in shallow water Ledges and drop-offs near spawning areas	Texas Rigs (Worming) with light weights around rocky areas Frogs/Toads worked through lily pad fields Wacky Rigs along ledges and transitional areas Inline Spinners in clearer water areas	Crawfish moving actively on rocky bottoms Bluegill in shallow areas around vegetation Minnows along structure transitions	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Moving shallow (2-8 feet) to spawn on hard bottom areas near points and in protected pockets with boulder or gravel substrate Males actively guarding nests while females stage on nearby deeper structure between spawning waves Highly aggressive territorial behavior from males protecting nests, with feeding becoming secondary to defensive strikes	Protected rocky pockets and coves with gravel or boulder substrate Secondary points with mixed rock and gravel near deeper water Channel swing banks with rock transitions	Tubes worked slowly around visible beds and rocky areas Ned Rigs dragged through potential spawning areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for searching pre-spawn staging areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small bluegill and perch in spawning areas Young of year baitfish starting to appear	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	52-65	Chain Pickerel actively spawning in shallow, vegetated areas with water temperatures rising. Fish become aggressive and territorial, defending spawning areas near grass edges and lily pad fields. Post-spawn fish remain shallow but transition to active feeding patterns, particularly during early morning hours near vegetation edges and points	Shallow grass edges and lily pad fields in 2-4 feet of water, especially near points and coves Protected shoreline areas with matted vegetation adjacent to slightly deeper water Complex shoreline areas where vegetation meets river channel edges	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically along grass edges and through sparse vegetation Spinnerbaits retrieved steadily parallel to weed edges, particularly effective in early morning Inline Spinners worked through gaps in vegetation and along points	Shad congregating in spawning areas and shallow flats Minnows actively feeding in vegetation edges Young perch moving into shallow areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie are transitioning to shallow spawning areas, staging near complex shoreline features and moving into protective coves Fish are becoming more aggressive as water warms, actively feeding before and after spawning activities	Shallow bays and coves with lily pad stems and submerged vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Standing timber areas adjacent to spawning flats Protected areas between docks where spawning activity occurs	Crappie Dock Shooting - for targeting fish holding tight to structure Bobbers - suspended presentations around shallow cover Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) - for precise presentations to visible beds	Small shad and shad fry gathering in spawning areas Young-of-year bluegill and other small panfish	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	58-72	Actively moving into shallow, vegetated areas as water temperatures rise above 60°F for spawning Males aggressively guarding nests in lily pad fields and matted grass, showing increased territorial behavior Feeding heavily pre-spawn on bluegill and other panfish near vegetation edges	Lily pad fields in protected coves Matted grass areas adjacent to slightly deeper water Vegetation edges where shallow areas meet channels	Frogs/Toads worked slowly across vegetation mats Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along weed edges Buzzbaits early morning through vegetation lanes	Bluegill concentrating in shallow vegetation Frogs and amphibians becoming active in warming waters Small panfish species gathering in spawning areas	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-68	Spotted bass are in pre-spawn to spawn mode, moving from deeper winter areas to shallow spawning flats, particularly around hard bottom areas and rocky points Males are actively guarding nests in 2-8 feet of water, while females stage slightly deeper on nearby structure Aggressive feeding periods occur during pre-spawn, with fish actively pursuing baitfish and crawfish near spawning areas	Rocky points and transition areas leading to spawning flats Hard bottom areas near creek channels with scattered vegetation Secondary points with mixed rock and vegetation in 2-8 feet of water	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover and spawning areas Spinnerbaits worked parallel to shoreline structure Shakey Heads on rocky points and transitions	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small bluegill near spawning areas Shad schools in creek channels and staging areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively spawning in shallow protected areas, particularly around lily pads and matted grass, with males guarding nests Feeding opportunistically on insects and small invertebrates in and around spawning areas Most active during morning and evening hours, with reduced activity during bright midday periods	Protected shallow bays with lily pads and submerged vegetation in 2-4 feet of water Quiet coves with matted grass and stable bottom composition Secondary points leading into spawning bays with vegetation	Bobbers with small live bait or soft plastics suspended just above bottom Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly through spawning areas Micro Crankbaits retrieved slowly parallel to spawning areas	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small minnows	Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-72	Post-spawn bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are moving between shallow and mid-depth areas, using grass lines and ledges as primary travel routes Most active during morning and evening periods, seeking shade during bright midday hours	Grass lines adjacent to spawning flats, especially where they intersect with creek channels Secondary points with rock piles and boulders near deeper water Outer edges of lily pad fields where they meet deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to grass lines and through scattered lily pads Texas Rigs (Worming) along rock piles and ledges Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') around secondary points	Bluegill gathering in spawning areas Crawfish active in rocky areas Small shad schools beginning to form	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-72	Post-spawn smallmouth bass are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns along rocky structures Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior during prime periods, particularly during morning and evening hours when targeting crawfish and baitfish	Rock-to-sand transition areas near spawning flats in 8-15 feet of water Main lake points with boulder structure adjacent to deeper water River channel edges where rock structure meets deeper water	Ned Rigs worked slowly along rock transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved steadily parallel to structure Tubes dragged and hopped along rocky bottom	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish schools Young of the year panfish	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	58-72	Chain Pickerel are actively feeding in post-spawn, transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, particularly active during early morning hours along grass edges Fish are targeting shad and minnows in shallow to mid-depth zones, using vegetation as ambush points	Grass edges and weed beds in 3-8 feet of water, especially near points and coves Secondary points with emerging vegetation near spawning areas Shallow river channel bends with adjacent vegetation	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically along grass edges Spinnerbaits retrieved steadily parallel to weed edges Inline Spinners cast to ambush points near vegetation	Shad schools moving into shallow areas Juvenile Yellow Perch Various Minnow species	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	62-72	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, becoming more active and starting to suspend near vertical cover Fish are actively feeding throughout the day, but showing preference for shaded areas during bright conditions	Standing timber areas adjacent to spawning flats, particularly where suspended feeding zones exist Emerging lily pad fields with access to deeper water Creek channel edges where submerged vegetation is starting to grow	Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9')	Shad (primary forage based on lake reports) Small bluegill fry beginning to emerge	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	60-75	Post-spawn snakeheads are aggressively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting shallow vegetation zones and protected coves Fish are actively patrolling edges of lily pads and matted grass, using these areas as ambush points for bluegill and other forage	Shallow protected coves with lily pad fields Edges of matted grass adjacent to slightly deeper water Vegetated points where multiple types of cover intersect	Frogs/Toads worked across lily pads and vegetation mats Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along vegetation edges Buzzbaits for aggressive surface strikes in early morning	Bluegill concentrating in shallow vegetation Amphibians becoming active in warming waters Small baitfish gathering around vegetation edges	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	62-72	Post-spawn spotted bass are actively feeding to recover energy, targeting shad and crawfish around transition areas between spawning flats and summer haunts Fish are moving from shallow spawning areas to deeper structure, holding at intermediate depths during the day and moving shallow to feed during morning and evening	Rocky points and ledges adjacent to spawning flats Creek channel intersections with submerged vegetation Secondary points with mixed rock and grass habitat	Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along rock-grass transitions Shakey Heads fished around rocky points and ledges Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') parallel to shoreline structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Shad schools in transition areas Bluegill beginning to spawn in protected areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegill transitioning to deeper feeding areas while still utilizing shallow cover, actively feeding to recover energy Establishing summer patterns with movement between shallow feeding zones and slightly deeper rest areas near vegetation edges	Edges of lily pad fields where they meet deeper water Submerged weed beds in 4-8 feet of water Protected coves with matted grass	Bobbers with small jigs suspended near vegetation edges Crappie Dock Shooting around shaded structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around weed edges	Small insects and larvae around vegetation Small crustaceans in weed beds Emerging aquatic insects	Light Neutral 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	72-75	Bass are actively feeding around shallow to mid-depth structure, particularly during early morning and evening periods, utilizing lily pads, rock piles, and ledges as primary ambush points Fish are showing a pattern of relating to transitional areas between shallow cover and deeper water, especially around points and ledges adjacent to lily pads	Lily pad edges adjacent to deeper water or rock piles Points at the mouth of coves with quick drop-offs to weed beds Deep ledges next to shallow cover	Finesse presentations with Ned Rigs and Shakey Heads around rock piles and points Frogs/Toads worked slowly over lily pad fields Finesse Jigs worked along deep ledges adjacent to shallow cover	Bluegill holding in and around shallow cover Crawfish active around rock piles and hard bottom areas Insects present in surface vegetation	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	65-72	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding on insects near rocky structure, with a preference for cooler water as indicated by their presence on the dam side Fish are likely establishing summer patterns along deeper, rocky structure to stay in optimal temperature ranges while maintaining access to forage	Dam area boulders and rocky structure Rocky points and transitions along channel edges Clean, hard-bottom areas away from heavy vegetation	Ned Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Drop Shot with small profile baits near rocky structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) along depth transitions	Insects Crawfish Small baitfish	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Chain Pickerel	72-85	Chain Pickerel are actively feeding during early morning and evening hours, primarily ambushing prey from dense vegetation and grass edges During midday heat, fish move slightly deeper to adjacent grass edges but remain near their ambush cover	Matted grass and lily pad edges adjacent to deeper water Points and coves with abundant vegetation coverage River channel edges where they intersect with weed growth	Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically along grass edges Spinnerbaits retrieved parallel to weed edges Buzzbaits over and around lily pads during low light conditions Frogs/Toads worked across matted vegetation	Shad congregating near vegetation edges Minnows seeking shelter in grass beds Small sunfish relating to lily pad fields	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Crappie	68-82	Crappie are transitioning to deeper suspended zones near structure, particularly around standing timber and creek channels during daylight hours Early morning and evening feeding periods near lily pads and submerged vegetation, taking advantage of shad and small prey fish	Standing timber areas adjacent to deeper water, especially where suspended schools can hold in shade Edges of lily pad fields, particularly where they meet deeper water or creek channels Submerged vegetation in 8-15 foot depths that provides cover and feeding zones	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along the edges of vegetation and through suspended fish zones Crappie Spider Rigging around standing timber and deeper structure during midday Hover/Mid-Strolling near lily pad edges during morning and evening periods	Shad schools suspending near structure and vegetation edges Small bluegill and juvenile panfish around vegetation	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Northern Snakehead	75-88	Highly aggressive feeding in and around dense vegetation, particularly lily pads and matted grass, with peak activity during early morning and evening hours Utilizing vegetation edges and points as ambush zones to prey on abundant bluegill and other panfish population	Thick lily pad fields in protected coves and backwater areas Edges where matted grass meets open water, especially near points Vegetated shallow flats with mixed grass and pad cover	Frogs/Toads worked aggressively across vegetation mats Buzzbaits along vegetation edges during low light conditions Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through vegetation gaps	Bluegill and other panfish concentrated in vegetation Frogs and other amphibians active in shallow areas Small baitfish utilizing weed edges	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Spotted Bass	68-75	Holding on deep structure adjacent to shallow feeding areas, moving shallow during early morning and late evening to feed Actively pursuing shad and bluegill schools around vegetation edges and rock transitions Seeking thermal refuge in deeper, cooler water during peak daytime hours	Deep rocky points adjacent to river channel edges Submerged vegetation edges near deep water access Rock piles and ledges in 15-25 foot depth range	Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along rocky points and ledges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) worked through vegetation edges Drop Shot near deep structure during midday heat	Shad schools suspending near structure Bluegill relating to vegetation edges Crawfish active on rocky structure	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	68-82	Actively feeding in and around vegetation, particularly during early morning and evening hours, targeting insects and small invertebrates Moving between shallow and mid-depth areas throughout the day, seeking cooler water during peak heat	Lily pad edges and gaps where panfish can ambush prey Submerged weed beds in 4-8 foot depth range Deeper creek channel edges adjacent to vegetation for midday refuge	Bobbers with small jigs worked slowly through vegetation Micro Crankbaits worked parallel to weed edges Inline Spinners retrieved steadily near surface vegetation	Aquatic insects and larvae Small invertebrates in vegetation Smaller bluegill fry	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Ontelaunee Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-58	Bass are transitioning to deeper water and slowing their movement patterns as water temperatures drop into the 50s Feeding activity is concentrated around current areas and structure, with fish relating heavily to bottom-oriented presentations	Rock piles in deeper water, especially near channel edges Lily pad edges where they transition to deeper water Creek channels with current flow	Structure Jigs worked slowly along bottom Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked around rock piles Football Jigs dragged along deeper transitions	Shad moving in schools along channel edges Crawfish active around rock structures	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Shad Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-65	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding on baitfish and crawfish while transitioning to deeper structure as temperatures cool Fish are utilizing boulder fields and channel edges as primary feeding zones, showing increased schooling behavior	Boulder fields near channel breaks and points Deep rock-to-sand transitions along river channel edges Main lake points with scattered rock and boulders	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly along bottom transitions Drop Shot with finesse presentations near rocky structure Ned Rigs worked through boulder fields	Crawfish utilizing boulder fields and rocky areas Small baitfish schools congregating near channel edges	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Chain Pickerel	52-68	Chain Pickerel become increasingly active as water temperatures cool, aggressively feeding to build energy reserves. They stage along grass edges and channel breaks, ambushing prey during dawn and dusk periods. Fish are moving between shallow grass flats and deeper channel edges, following baitfish schools and targeting concentrations of perch and shad.	Grass edges adjacent to river channels where vegetation meets deeper water Points and coves with matted grass and lily pad edges Shallow flats with vegetation near deeper water access	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to grass edges with occasional pauses Soft Jerkbaits rigged weightless and twitched erratically near vegetation Lipless Crankbaits burned through sparse grass areas	Shad moving in schools along grass edges Yellow Perch holding in vegetation Various minnow species grouped up near structure	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Crappie	52-68	Crappie are transitioning from summer patterns, following shad schools and beginning to school up more tightly as temperatures drop Fish are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, with most activity during dawn and dusk periods	Standing timber areas near creek channels where shad are congregating Deep water edges of remaining lily pad fields Points and ledges adjacent to deep water	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along creek channels and timber edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around standing timber Crappie Spider Rigging near points and channel breaks	Shad schools concentrated in creek channels and around timber Small bluegill in remaining vegetation	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Northern Snakehead	55-72	Moving from heavy summer vegetation to transitional areas near deeper channels, following cooling water temperatures Increased feeding activity to build energy reserves before winter, particularly during warmer parts of the day	Edges of dying lily pad fields adjacent to deeper water channels Protected coves with remaining vegetation near channel access Points and inside turns where vegetation meets deeper water	Frogs/Toads worked slowly over remaining vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along weed edges Spinnerbaits parallel to vegetation lines	Bluegill congregating near remaining vegetation Small baitfish schools moving along channel edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	55-68	Spotted bass are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, following baitfish schools and targeting crawfish near rocky structures Fish are transitioning from summer deep water patterns to shallower feeding zones, particularly during morning and evening hours	Main lake points with rock transitions, especially those adjacent to creek channels Submerged vegetation edges near deeper water access Rocky ledges and boulders in 8-15 foot depth range	Spinnerbaits worked along vegetation edges and over points during cloudy conditions or low light periods Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked parallel to rocky banks and across points Football Jigs dragged slowly across rocky structure and ledges	Shad schools moving into creek arms and along main lake points Crawfish active on rocky structure during warmer parts of the day Bluegill relating to remaining vegetation	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, concentrating around remaining vegetation and structure Moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper staging areas as water temperatures fluctuate Schooling behavior becomes more pronounced, with larger groups gathering near key structure	Deep edges of weed beds where vegetation is still healthy Creek channel intersections with remaining lily pad fields Rock piles adjacent to deeper water	Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through vegetation edges Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around structure	Small insects and larvae still present in remaining vegetation Juvenile baitfish congregating near structure Zooplankton in deeper water columns	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	35-50	Bass are holding in deeper, more stable water temperatures but making periodic moves to shallower areas during warming trends, especially during afternoon hours Feeding activity is concentrated during warmer parts of the day, with a notable increase in activity just before dark as noted in recent reports Fish are responding well to slower presentations, especially during daytime hours, showing typical winter metabolism patterns	Deep holes with rock and grass mixture, particularly those adjacent to channel edges River channels and deeper structure where bass stage during cold periods Matted grass areas, especially those near deeper water access	Slow-rolled Spinnerbaits, particularly effective based on multiple recent success reports Texas Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure, especially effective in deeper channels Shakey Heads worked methodically around rocky areas and grass edges	Minnows, particularly abundant based on recent fishing reports Crawfish, especially around rocky areas and channel edges Bluegill in and around remaining vegetation	Light Neutral Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	38-45	Smallmouth bass concentrate in deeper, main lake areas near rocky structure and channel edges, typically suspending in schools near bottom-oriented structure Feeding activity becomes more concentrated during stable weather periods, with fish making short movements to ambush prey while conserving energy	Deep main lake points with boulder structure adjacent to river channels (18-25 feet) Clean rock and gravel transition areas where channels meet main lake structure (15-22 feet) Steep rocky banks with quick access to deep water (12-20 feet)	Blade Baits worked with a slow, vertical presentation near bottom structure Drop Shot with small profile baits fished slowly along bottom transitions Hair Jigs worked with subtle movements near rocky structure	Dormant or slow-moving crawfish in rocky areas Small baitfish schools concentrated in deeper water	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Chain Pickerel	35-48	Chain Pickerel remain actively feeding during winter, especially during early morning hours, targeting shad and minnows in shallow grass areas Fish are exhibiting ambush behavior along grass edges, responding to flash and movement of baits	Matted grass edges in shallow water, especially where vegetation meets deeper water River channel edges with nearby grass coverage Protected coves with remaining vegetation where baitfish school	Soft Jerkbaits with slow, stop-and-go retrieves to imitate struggling baitfish Spinnerbaits worked slowly along grass edges for flash and vibration Small to Medium Soft Body Swimbaits rigged in tandem to imitate baitfish schools	Shad schooling in protected areas Small minnows along grass edges Perch in slightly deeper water near structure	Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Crappie	45-52	Suspending near deep ledges and vertical structure, moving up to feed on shad during low-light periods Schools congregating in tighter groups during winter, especially around standing timber and deep structure	Deep water ledges with vertical drops, especially near channel swings Standing timber in deeper water Deep creek channel intersections with structure	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with slow, controlled retrieves Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near vertical structure Damiki Rig when fish are tightly schooled around timber	Shad - primary winter forage based on reports White perch - secondary forage option	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Northern Snakehead	40-52	During open water winter, snakeheads move away from shallow vegetation to deeper channel areas, becoming less active but still feeding opportunistically Fish concentrate in deeper water, typically holding near the bottom in river channels and deeper structure	Deep river channels adjacent to dying vegetation edges Deeper holes in protected coves near summer vegetation areas Channel intersections and deeper structure near points	Blade Baits worked slowly along channel edges and bottom structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved methodically through deeper water columns Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') in identified holding areas	Bluegill congregating in deeper winter holding areas Small baitfish schools in channel areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	42-52	Spotted bass are moving deeper and suspending near river channels and creek mouths, following baitfish schools Fish are generally less active but will feed opportunistically during warming trends, particularly during mid-afternoon hours They tend to school more tightly in winter, often gathering around hard structure like rock piles and ledges	Deep river channel bends with adjacent rock structure (15-25 feet) Creek mouth transitions where depth changes quickly Deep rock piles and ledges near primary points	Blade Baits worked vertically along channel edges Drop Shot with small profile baits near structure Football Jigs dragged slowly across rocky bottom	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Small bluegill near deep structure Crawfish (less active but still present near rocky areas)	Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	38-45	Panfish are holding in deeper creek channels and structured areas, typically schooling in tight groups during winter open water periods Feeding activity is reduced but concentrated during warmer parts of the day, with fish showing preference for smaller presentations	Deep creek channels with nearby structure, especially in 15-25 foot range Transition areas between deep channels and remaining submerged vegetation Protected coves with deeper water access, particularly on sunny days	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with small tungsten jigs Drop Shot with light line and small soft plastics Hover/Mid-Strolling near channel edges	Small insects and invertebrates Smaller baitfish and juvenile panfish	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Ontelaunee Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Grass lines and weed bed edges adjacent to slightly deeper water	Lily pad fields, especially emerging pad stems
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and channel bends adjacent to spawning flats	Transitions where boulder areas meet creek channels
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Grass edges and emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Protected coves with warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Standing timber areas adjacent to spawning flats, particularly in 8-15 foot depths	Creek channel bends near emerging lily pad fields
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Lily pad fields in protected coves and backwater areas	Vegetation edges near deeper water access
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Rocky points and ledges adjacent to potential spawning flats	Creek channel bends with rock or vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Creek channels adjacent to spawning flats where panfish stage before moving shallow	Areas of emerging vegetation near shoreline structures
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Rocky bottom areas adjacent to spawning flats	Emerging lily pad fields in shallow water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected rocky pockets and coves with gravel or boulder substrate	Secondary points with mixed rock and gravel near deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shallow grass edges and lily pad fields in 2-4 feet of water, especially near points and coves	Protected shoreline areas with matted vegetation adjacent to slightly deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shallow bays and coves with lily pad stems and submerged vegetation in 2-6 feet of water	Standing timber areas adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Lily pad fields in protected coves	Matted grass areas adjacent to slightly deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Rocky points and transition areas leading to spawning flats	Hard bottom areas near creek channels with scattered vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with lily pads and submerged vegetation in 2-4 feet of water	Quiet coves with matted grass and stable bottom composition
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Grass lines adjacent to spawning flats, especially where they intersect with creek channels	Secondary points with rock piles and boulders near deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock-to-sand transition areas near spawning flats in 8-15 feet of water	Main lake points with boulder structure adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Grass edges and weed beds in 3-8 feet of water, especially near points and coves	Secondary points with emerging vegetation near spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Standing timber areas adjacent to spawning flats, particularly where suspended feeding zones exist	Emerging lily pad fields with access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Shallow protected coves with lily pad fields	Edges of matted grass adjacent to slightly deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Rocky points and ledges adjacent to spawning flats	Creek channel intersections with submerged vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Edges of lily pad fields where they meet deeper water	Submerged weed beds in 4-8 feet of water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Lily pad edges adjacent to deeper water or rock piles	Points at the mouth of coves with quick drop-offs to weed beds
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Dam area boulders and rocky structure	Rocky points and transitions along channel edges
Summer	Chain Pickerel	Matted grass and lily pad edges adjacent to deeper water	Points and coves with abundant vegetation coverage
Summer	Crappie	Standing timber areas adjacent to deeper water, especially where suspended schools can hold in shade	Edges of lily pad fields, particularly where they meet deeper water or creek channels
Summer	Northern Snakehead	Thick lily pad fields in protected coves and backwater areas	Edges where matted grass meets open water, especially near points
Summer	Spotted Bass	Deep rocky points adjacent to river channel edges	Submerged vegetation edges near deep water access
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Lily pad edges and gaps where panfish can ambush prey	Submerged weed beds in 4-8 foot depth range
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Rock piles in deeper water, especially near channel edges	Lily pad edges where they transition to deeper water
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields near channel breaks and points	Deep rock-to-sand transitions along river channel edges
Fall	Chain Pickerel	Grass edges adjacent to river channels where vegetation meets deeper water	Points and coves with matted grass and lily pad edges
Fall	Crappie	Standing timber areas near creek channels where shad are congregating	Deep water edges of remaining lily pad fields
Fall	Northern Snakehead	Edges of dying lily pad fields adjacent to deeper water channels	Protected coves with remaining vegetation near channel access
Fall	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with rock transitions, especially those adjacent to creek channels	Submerged vegetation edges near deeper water access
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep edges of weed beds where vegetation is still healthy	Creek channel intersections with remaining lily pad fields
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Deep holes with rock and grass mixture, particularly those adjacent to channel edges	River channels and deeper structure where bass stage during cold periods
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep main lake points with boulder structure adjacent to river channels (18-25 feet)	Clean rock and gravel transition areas where channels meet main lake structure (15-22 feet)
Winter	Chain Pickerel	Matted grass edges in shallow water, especially where vegetation meets deeper water	River channel edges with nearby grass coverage
Winter	Crappie	Deep water ledges with vertical drops, especially near channel swings	Standing timber in deeper water
Winter	Northern Snakehead	Deep river channels adjacent to dying vegetation edges	Deeper holes in protected coves near summer vegetation areas
Winter	Spotted Bass	Deep river channel bends with adjacent rock structure (15-25 feet)	Creek mouth transitions where depth changes quickly
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep creek channels with nearby structure, especially in 15-25 foot range	Transition areas between deep channels and remaining submerged vegetation

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Minnows - primary forage based on multiple recent reports	Crawfish - becoming more active with warming temperatures
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish schools along channel edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shad congregating in warming shallows	Yellow Perch in transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad schools beginning to move shallower	Small bluegill becoming more active in warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Bluegill congregating in shallow vegetation	Amphibians becoming active in shallow areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small bluegill in and around vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae emerging with warming waters	Tiny crustaceans in vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish moving actively on rocky bottoms	Bluegill in shallow areas around vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small bluegill and perch in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shad congregating in spawning areas and shallow flats	Minnows actively feeding in vegetation edges
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Small shad and shad fry gathering in spawning areas	Young-of-year bluegill and other small panfish
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Bluegill concentrating in shallow vegetation	Frogs and amphibians becoming active in warming waters
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small bluegill near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill gathering in spawning areas	Crawfish active in rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish schools
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Shad schools moving into shallow areas	Juvenile Yellow Perch
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad (primary forage based on lake reports)	Small bluegill fry beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Bluegill concentrating in shallow vegetation	Amphibians becoming active in warming waters
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Shad schools in transition areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around vegetation	Small crustaceans in weed beds
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill holding in and around shallow cover	Crawfish active around rock piles and hard bottom areas
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Insects	Crawfish
Summer	Chain Pickerel	Shad congregating near vegetation edges	Minnows seeking shelter in grass beds
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending near structure and vegetation edges	Small bluegill and juvenile panfish around vegetation
Summer	Northern Snakehead	Bluegill and other panfish concentrated in vegetation	Frogs and other amphibians active in shallow areas
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schools suspending near structure	Bluegill relating to vegetation edges
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small invertebrates in vegetation
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad moving in schools along channel edges	Crawfish active around rock structures
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish utilizing boulder fields and rocky areas	Small baitfish schools congregating near channel edges
Fall	Chain Pickerel	Shad moving in schools along grass edges	Yellow Perch holding in vegetation
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools concentrated in creek channels and around timber	Small bluegill in remaining vegetation
Fall	Northern Snakehead	Bluegill congregating near remaining vegetation	Small baitfish schools moving along channel edges
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shad schools moving into creek arms and along main lake points	Crawfish active on rocky structure during warmer parts of the day
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae still present in remaining vegetation	Juvenile baitfish congregating near structure
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Minnows, particularly abundant based on recent fishing reports	Crawfish, especially around rocky areas and channel edges
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Dormant or slow-moving crawfish in rocky areas	Small baitfish schools concentrated in deeper water
Winter	Chain Pickerel	Shad schooling in protected areas	Small minnows along grass edges
Winter	Crappie	Shad - primary winter forage based on reports	White perch - secondary forage option
Winter	Northern Snakehead	Bluegill congregating in deeper winter holding areas	Small baitfish schools in channel areas
Winter	Spotted Bass	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Small bluegill near deep structure
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and invertebrates	Smaller baitfish and juvenile panfish

Bait Colors by Season for Ontelaunee Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Chain Pickerel	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Snakehead	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Light Neutral Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Chain Pickerel	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Northern Snakehead	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Spotted Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Shad Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Chain Pickerel	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Northern Snakehead	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Light Neutral Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Chain Pickerel	Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Northern Snakehead	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors