How to Fish Pymatuning Reservoir: Best Patterns & Techniques

Pymatuning Reservoir

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 5, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Pymatuning Reservoir

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Transitioning from winter deep water areas to shallow spawning zones, staging on adjacent structure Actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, particularly during warming trends Most active during midday periods when water temperatures rise	Rocky points and boulder fields in 5-12 foot depth range Steep breaks adjacent to spawning flats Protected coves with hard bottom composition	Blade Baits worked with slow, vertical presentations along breaks Tubes dragged slowly across rocky structure Ned Rigs worked with subtle hops on transition areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish schools in pre-spawn patterns Early season insects near warming shallows	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Pre-spawn walleyes staging near spawning areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish moving from winter depths to shallower transitional areas, following warming trends Most active during low-light periods, but turbid conditions (1.9m clarity) allow feeding throughout day	Rock and gravel areas near spawning sites, particularly on windward shorelines Transition areas between deep winter haunts and shallow spawning grounds Points and inside turns with access to both shallow and deep water	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with minnows near rocky structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around staging areas	Yellow Perch staging in similar areas as walleyes Small baitfish schools in transition areas Juvenile crappies in slightly warmer bays	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-69	Pre-spawn largemouth bass are actively transitioning from winter areas to warming shallow zones, seeking optimal spawning locations Fish are becoming increasingly active and aggressive, feeding heavily to prepare for the spawn Bass are relating closely to emerging vegetation, particularly lily pads, as evidenced by recent fishing reports	Emerging lily pad fields in 3-5 feet of water Protected coves with early vegetation growth Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Bladed Jigs worked through and around vegetation Spinnerbaits along edges of vegetation Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) in thicker cover	Shad schools moving shallow Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Crappie are staging in pre-spawn areas, actively feeding and moving from deeper winter haunts to shallower spawning zones Fish are becoming more active and aggressive as water temperatures rise, congregating near emerging vegetation and structure that will later become spawning areas	Staging areas near lily pad fields in 8-12 feet of water Secondary points and creek channels leading to spawning coves Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 5-15 feet of water	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Small shad and minnows Young perch Aquatic insects near vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	52-65	Pre-spawn catfish actively moving from deeper wintering areas to warmer, shallower flats and staging areas Increasing feeding activity as water warms, with fish particularly active during late afternoon and evening hours Fish transitioning between depths frequently, following baitfish movements and responding to daily temperature changes	Rock piles and points adjacent to deeper water, especially those leading to spawning flats Protected coves with emerging vegetation Channel edges near shallow flats where depth transitions occur	Live Bait Rigs with slow presentations near bottom structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') along depth transitions Carolina Rigs worked slowly across rocky points	Shad schools moving into warming shallows Small panfish gathering near emerging vegetation Minnows concentrating around rock structures	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	45-58	Pre-spawn muskie are actively feeding to build energy reserves, primarily targeting shad and other prey fish along weed edges and points Fish are transitioning from winter areas to spawning locations, following primary forage movements in the 5-10 foot depth range Most active during dawn and dusk periods, with increased activity on warming trends	Weed edges and emerging vegetation in 5-10 foot depth range Points and inside turns adjacent to spawning bays Shallow flats with scattered vegetation near deeper water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Trolling Shallow (0-9') Spinnerbaits	Shad schools moving into warming shallows Various panfish species around vegetation Young of year baitfish beginning to emerge	Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills moving from winter deep water patterns to shallower, warmer areas, particularly focusing on emerging vegetation in protected coves Staging in pre-spawn locations near future bedding areas, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Feeding patterns increasing in frequency but still somewhat selective, with focus on small insects and invertebrates	Protected coves with emerging vegetation in 4-8 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning bays Areas where matted grass from previous season meets deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with light line and small hooks Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with micro jigs Bobbers with suspended micro jigs or live bait	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small minnows	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Smallmouth bass transitioning to spawning areas, focusing on boulder and rock areas in shallow water (2-8 feet). Males actively guarding nests while females move between spawning areas and nearby feeding zones Most active during early morning and evening periods, especially given the stained water conditions (1.9m secchi). Feeding activity increases before and after spawning	Rock and boulder areas in 2-8 foot depth range, especially on points and in protected bays Transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water, particularly along the complex shoreline Protected coves with hard bottom composition, especially those with morning sun exposure	Tubes worked slowly around rocky areas and potential nest sites Ned Rigs dragged and hopped along hard bottom areas Spinnerbaits in windy conditions or during cloudy days	Crawfish emerging from winter locations Small baitfish schools in pre-spawn patterns Aquatic insects becoming more active with warming water	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye actively moving to spawning areas near rocky points and ledges, with most active feeding during low light periods Post-spawn fish beginning transition to feeding locations, following baitfish schools in mid-depth zones	Rocky ledges and points in 10-19 foot depth range Transition areas between spawning grounds and deeper water Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to spawning areas	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Crappie Perch Small baitfish schools	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-65	Bass actively spawning and defending beds in shallow protected areas, particularly in lily pad fields Males guarding nests while females move between shallow spawning areas and slightly deeper staging areas	Scattered lily pad fields in 3-5 feet of water Protected shallow coves with firm bottom Secondary points adjacent to spawning flats	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around visible beds and lily pad edges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) between pads and other cover Soft Jerkbaits for cruising fish between beds	Crayfish emerging in warming shallows Small bluegill and juvenile panfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Aggressive spawning behavior with males establishing and guarding nests in shallow protected areas, typically 2-7 feet deep Pre-spawn and spawning crappie staging near shoreline structure, particularly around lily pads and submerged vegetation Increased daytime activity and feeding as water temperatures stabilize in the spawning range	Protected shallow coves with lily pads and submerged vegetation in 2-7 foot depth range Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow brush piles and fallen timber near spawning areas	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with light jigs around visible cover Bobbers with live bait or small jigs near spawning areas Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to structure	Small minnows gathering in spawning areas Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge Small perch in vegetated areas	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	58-70	Pre-spawn catfish actively moving to shallow spawning areas, particularly around rocky points and protected coves where water warms first Increased feeding activity as fish prepare for spawning, with most active periods during dawn and dusk	Rocky points and riprap areas in 3-8 feet of water where the bottom warms quickly Protected coves with emerging vegetation near deeper water access Shallow flats adjacent to channel edges where fish stage before moving to spawn	Live Bait Rigs with slip sinkers for natural presentation in shallow spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near structure and staging areas Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around emerging vegetation and shallow cover	Shad congregating in warming shallow waters Small sunfish and crappie in emerging vegetation Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	45-55	Pre-spawn muskie actively feeding near weed edges, with increased activity during low-light and rainy conditions as reported Fish staging near spawning areas but still actively pursuing larger prey like shad in preparation for spawn	Submerged vegetation edges in 5-10 foot depth range, particularly where they meet deeper water Complex shoreline areas with points and bays that provide staging areas near spawning habitat Shallow flats with emerging vegetation adjacent to deeper water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along weed edges, as proven successful in recent reports Trolling Shallow (0-9') parallel to weed edges and shoreline contours Spinnerbaits worked through and around vegetation	Shad (primary forage as noted in recent catch report) Various panfish species utilizing the vegetation	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Male bluegills moving into shallow spawning areas to create nests in protected bays and coves, particularly around matted grass and lily pad zones Females staging in slightly deeper water (8-12 feet) near spawning areas, moving shallow periodically to spawn Active feeding periods during morning and evening hours, with increased aggression around nest sites	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and vegetation in 2-4 feet of water Edges of lily pad fields in 5-7 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Bobbers with small live bait or jigs worked slowly around spawning areas Finesse Hair Jigs worked vertically around bed areas Micro Crankbaits worked parallel to spawning areas for actively feeding fish	Small insects and larvae around vegetation Small minnows in and around weed edges Aquatic invertebrates in shallow zones	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Smallmouth are actively feeding in shallow water (6-8 feet) post-spawn, utilizing boulder and rock areas as primary feeding zones Fish are showing increased aggression and feeding activity around the east side structure, likely due to warming water and increased baitfish activity	Boulder and large rock areas in 6-8 foot depth range, particularly on the east side of islands Sand and gravel transitions near rocky structure in shallow water Points and shallow structure within the light penetration zone (under 6 feet) given the stained water conditions	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along rock transitions Bladed Jigs with steady retrieves for added vibration in stained water Tubes worked along boulder edges and rock piles	Minnows congregating around shallow structure Crawfish emerging from winter patterns in rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-62	Post-spawn walleye are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer feeding patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are moving between shallow and mid-depth zones following baitfish, particularly active during low-light periods due to turbid conditions	Rocky points and adjacent flats near spawning areas Submerged weed edges in 8-15 foot depth range Transition areas between hard bottom and soft bottom in 12-20 foot range	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs	Perch moving into early summer patterns Crappie schools in transition areas General baitfish schools following warming trends	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-69	Post-spawn largemouth have transitioned from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding in 8-10 foot depths around submerged vegetation Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior, willing to chase reaction baits like chatterbaits while also responding to slower soft plastic presentations	Submerged vegetation in 8-10 foot depth zones, particularly where it creates edges or transitions Secondary points with vegetation near deeper water access Protected coves with established weed growth	Bladed Jigs ripped through and over submerged vegetation Soft Jerkbaits worked weightless through sparse vegetation Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to weed edges	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-spawn areas Crappie present in similar depth ranges as bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	62-72	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer locations, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are suspending near edges of vegetation and structure, particularly around the 5-7 foot depth range during feeding periods	Edges of lily pad fields in 5-7 foot depths where they transition to deeper water Submerged vegetation edges near points and coves Secondary points with access to deeper water	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along vegetation edges Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) near lily pad edges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') when fish are holding tight to cover	Young-of-year shad beginning to school Small minnows around vegetation Juvenile perch in and around vegetation edges	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	58-72	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding to recover energy, moving from spawning areas to feeding zones near structure and current Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to slightly deeper water, but still utilizing the 5-15 foot range during feeding periods	Rock piles and points adjacent to spawning flats in 5-15 feet of water Areas near submerged vegetation and lily pads where baitfish concentrate Current breaks and channel edges near complex shoreline features	Live Bait Rigs with slow dragging presentation Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Trolling Shallow (0-9') along depth transitions	Shad schools beginning to concentrate in warming waters Crappie in similar depth ranges Minnows gathering around newly emerging vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	58-68	Post-spawn muskies are actively recovering and beginning to feed aggressively, particularly around weed edges and points where forage is abundant Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer habitat, using structural elements like points and weed edges as travel corridors	Weed edges in 5-10 foot depth range, especially near points or breaks Complex shoreline areas with multiple coves and points Shallow bays with emerging vegetation adjacent to deeper water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Spinnerbaits Inline Spinners	Shad schools beginning to form in post-spawn period Various panfish species around vegetation Young-of-year baitfish emerging in shallows	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegill are actively feeding to recover energy, moving from shallow spawning areas to nearby feeding zones Fish are orienting to submerged vegetation edges and matted grass in 5-7 foot depths Due to the turbid water (1.9m Secchi), fish are staying in upper water column where light penetration is strongest	Weed edges and scattered grass patches in 5-7 feet of water Protected coves with emerging vegetation Secondary points with submerged vegetation near spawning flats	Live Bait Rigs with small lively offerings Bobbers with suspended baits near weed edges Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around vegetation	Small insects and larvae emerging in warming waters Small minnows gathering around vegetation Zooplankton concentrating in areas of emerging weed growth	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	66-78	Smallmouth are actively feeding during early morning hours (until around 9:30 AM) in shallow to mid-depth zones, particularly responding to vibration in the stained water conditions Fish have transitioned from spring rock piles to summer patterns, utilizing weed edges and points as primary feeding zones in 5-6 foot depths	Shallow weed beds adjacent to points in 5-6 foot depths Rock piles with nearby steep drop-offs Submerged vegetation edges, especially those near structure	Bladed Jigs worked with a slow retrieve and occasional vertical hop Swim Jigs targeting weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along structure edges	Minnows - primary forage based on recent reports Insects - secondary forage noted in reports Crawfish - indicated by successful bait colors and typical summer forage	Vibrant Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Walleye	68-78	Actively following baitfish schools in mid-depth water column, with feeding activity throughout the day due to turbid conditions Utilizing submerged vegetation edges and ledges as ambush points, particularly during low light periods	Weed edges and submerged vegetation in 10-19 foot depth range Suspended over deeper water near structural breaks and ledges Points and bays with baitfish schools present	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs	Schools of mixed baitfish Yellow Perch Crappie	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	68-82	Largemouth bass establishing summer patterns with early morning/late evening feeding in shallow zones (2-8 feet) near vegetation, transitioning to deeper structures during midday heat Active feeding periods concentrated around dawn and dusk, with fish relating heavily to shade and cover during bright conditions	Weed edges and lily pad fields in 4-8 foot depth range Deep dock edges adjacent to vegetation Points and irregular shoreline features with shade	Frogs/Toads worked over vegetation during morning/evening periods Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around heavy cover and dock structures Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) along deeper weed edges during midday	Shad schools moving along weed edges Crappie concentrations in and around vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Crappie	72-78	Crappie are suspending in deeper water during the day, especially near submerged vegetation edges in 10-19 foot zones Early morning and evening feeding periods see fish moving shallower to feed around lily pad edges in 5-7 feet Fish are schooling around structure and following baitfish movements throughout the water column	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake points in 10-15 feet Lily pad fields with access to deeper water Suspended schools near creek channel bends in 12-19 feet	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad schools suspending in deeper water Small minnows around vegetation edges Young-of-year perch in weed beds	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Catfish	72-82	Actively feeding in shallow water (5-7 feet) during late morning hours, particularly around vegetation Suspending and actively chasing bait rather than staying bottom-oriented, showing increased activity in warm water Utilizing lily pad edges as ambush points for feeding on baitfish	Lily pad edges in 5-7 feet of water Rock piles near depth changes Shallow coves with vegetation	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along vegetation edges Live Bait Rigs near structure Carolina Rigs worked through rocky areas	Minnows concentrated around vegetation Shad in open water areas Crappie in and around structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Muskie	72-82	Muskies are establishing summer patterns around deeper weed edges and points, making periodic moves to feed on shad schools in open water During early morning and evening, fish become more active in shallower zones near weed edges and points, while holding deeper during bright midday periods	Deep weed edges in 8-12 foot range, especially where they intersect with points or drops Main lake points with access to both shallow and deep water Offshore structure adjacent to shad schools	Trolling Shallow (0-9') along weed edges and points during low light periods Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked through suspended fish near structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for targeting fish actively feeding on shad schools	Shad schools suspending near structure and in open water Various panfish species relating to weed edges	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	68-82	Actively feeding in and around shallow vegetation, particularly lily pads in 5-7 feet of water, with peak activity during early morning and evening hours Seeking shade and cover during bright midday periods, moving slightly deeper but staying within the vegetation zone Showing aggressive feeding behavior on insects and small minnows near weed edges and in pockets within matted grass	Lily pad fields in 5-7 feet of water, especially areas with clear pockets between pads Matted grass edges where they meet slightly deeper water Protected coves with submerged vegetation, particularly those offering shade	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 2-4 feet below surface near vegetation Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') in pockets between vegetation Micro Crankbaits worked slowly along weed edges	Aquatic insects around vegetation Small minnows in weed edges Larvae and small crustaceans in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Pymatuning Reservoir

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	65-75	Actively feeding on crawfish and baitfish around shallow to mid-depth structure, with increased activity due to cooling fall temperatures Moving between shallow feeding zones and adjacent deeper water, following baitfish schools	Shallow rock humps and boulder piles in 5-8 foot range Points and breaks adjacent to deeper water Weed edges transitioning to hard bottom	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked along structure edges Bladed Jigs with aggressive retrieves Spinnerbaits parallel to structure	Crawfish on rocky structure Baitfish schools in transition areas Young of year perch in weed edges	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Walleye	52-62	Walleye are actively feeding on perch in mid-depth zones, particularly around submerged vegetation edges where baitfish concentrate Fish are showing suspended feeding patterns, likely following baitfish schools in the water column	Edges of submerged vegetation in 10-19 foot depth range Main lake points with access to deep water Deeper weed edges adjacent to feeding flats	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with crawler harnesses or crankbaits Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through suspended baitfish schools	Perch - primary forage based on recent reports Crappie - secondary forage mentioned in lake profile	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following baitfish schools and moving between deeper structure and shallow feeding zones More aggressive during overcast conditions, transitioning deeper as sun gets higher, with peak activity during dawn and dusk	Secondary points adjacent to deep water access, especially those with remaining vegetation Deep weedline edges in 8-12 feet where vegetation meets channel breaks Protected coves with schools of shad, particularly on wind-blown banks	Lipless Crankbaits worked through sparse vegetation and along weed edges Spinnerbaits on windy banks and around remaining vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly near baitfish schools	Shad schools congregating in coves and along channel edges Crappie in remaining vegetation and around deeper structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Crappie	52-65	Crappie are actively schooling and feeding heavily in preparation for winter, following baitfish movements in the water column Fish are transitioning from shallow vegetation to deeper structures, with most active feeding during dawn and dusk periods	Deep brush piles and submerged timber in 10-19 foot range Edges of dying lily pad fields where they meet deeper water Creek channel bends and deeper coves with remaining vegetation	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Spider Rigging Hover/Mid-Strolling	Shad schools moving into deeper water Small perch around remaining vegetation Young-of-year minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Catfish	52-68	Catfish are transitioning to deeper water as temperatures cool, but still making feeding movements to shallow flats during low-light periods Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves before winter, often schooling around high-percentage feeding areas	Deep holes adjacent to rock piles and points, especially in 15-25 foot depth range Channel edges near remaining vegetation in 8-12 feet Shallow feeding flats near deep water access during dawn/dusk periods	Live Bait Rigs with larger offerings worked slowly along bottom structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near schools of baitfish Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges during active feeding periods	Shad schools congregating in deeper water Crappie in remaining vegetation edges Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish near rock structures	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Muskie	48-65	Muskie are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, following large schools of shad and targeting ambush points near deep-to-shallow transitions Fish become more aggressive during daylight hours, especially during weather changes and falling barometric pressure Movement patterns shift between deep main lake areas and shallow feeding zones, with increased activity around points and weed edges	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake points, especially in 8-15 foot depth range Shallow bays with remaining green vegetation, particularly where they meet deeper water Main lake points with submerged vegetation that intersect with shad migration routes	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and points to cover water efficiently Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked along vegetation edges with aggressive retrieves Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) burned through shallow feeding areas	Shad schools migrating along deep weed edges Various panfish species relating to remaining vegetation Bass utilizing similar structural elements as muskie	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Panfish are actively feeding in and around matted grass areas, taking advantage of remaining vegetation before winter Fish are showing preference for vertical presentations in mid-depth ranges, suggesting suspended feeding patterns	Matted grass beds in 10-19 foot depth range Protected coves with remaining vegetation Transition areas between shallow grass and deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Crappie Spider Rigging	Small insects and larvae in vegetation Young-of-year baitfish Aquatic invertebrates	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	38-45	Smallmouth bass are holding in deep winter locations near sharp breaks and rock structure, typically moving into slightly shallower water during sunny, warmer periods Feeding windows are shorter and more concentrated during midday warm-up periods, with fish being less aggressive but still willing to strike when presented with an easy meal	Deep rock piles and boulder fields adjacent to sharp breaks in 15-25 foot range Secondary points with access to both deep water and shallow feeding zones Steep bluff walls with scattered rock that provide vertical structure	Blade Baits worked with slow, vertical presentations near bottom structure Drop Shot with small profile baits fished slowly along bottom Tubes dragged slowly across rocky structure	Small baitfish schools concentrated in deeper water Crawfish in rocky areas, less active but still present	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	34-39	Walleye are actively feeding on suspended baitfish and crappie in mid-water column, with most activity during low light periods Fish are relating to structural elements that concentrate baitfish, showing preference for suspended presentations	Deep basin areas adjacent to structural breaks where baitfish schools suspend Main lake points and steep breaks with access to deeper water Submerged vegetation edges where they transition to deeper water	Bobbers with live bait suspended at key depths where baitfish are holding Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with aggressive jigging cadence to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Spoons worked through suspended baitfish schools	Crappie schools in mid-depth ranges General baitfish schools suspending in deeper water	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	38-45	Sluggish movement with concentrated schools in deeper water, targeting high-percentage areas with minimal energy expenditure Feeding windows are shorter and more pronounced, typically during warmer parts of the day Bass will suspend near primary forage (shad) schools but stay close to vertical structure for quick transitions	Deep main lake points adjacent to major creek channels (8-15 feet) Steep bluff walls with vertical structure Deep dock areas in primary creek arms	Blade Baits worked vertically with slow lifts and drops Jigging Spoons with erratic but controlled movements Drop Shot with minimal movement, keeping bait in strike zone	Suspended shad schools in deeper water Crappie in brush piles and dock structures Small bluegill near deeper vegetation edges	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Suspending in deeper water, typically 10-19 feet, in loose schools near deep structure and channel edges Feeding periods are most active during low-light conditions, with shorter, more concentrated feeding windows	Deep basin areas adjacent to structure, particularly in 15-19 foot depth range Channel edges and deeper points near submerged vegetation Deep coves and bays that offer protection from strong winter winds	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with slow, subtle presentations Damiki Rig worked vertically through suspended schools Ice Fishing Jigs with methodical lifting and falling motions	Suspended shad schools in deeper water Small minnows near channel edges	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Catfish	42-50	Catfish are congregating in deeper holes and channels, moving slowly and conserving energy Feeding activity is reduced but still occurs during warmer parts of the day, especially near structure with abundant forage	Deep holes and channels adjacent to rock piles, typically 15-25 feet Secondary break lines near points where depth changes are significant Areas where tributary streams enter the main lake body, creating slightly warmer water	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigs and cut bait Live Bait Rigs with larger offerings fished slowly Blade Baits worked vertically in deeper water	Stunned or dying shad that are temperature-stressed Bottom-dwelling creatures like crayfish Small fish species congregating in deeper water	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Muskie	38-45	During open water winter conditions, muskie become more lethargic but still need to feed, typically concentrating near deep structure adjacent to forage schools Feeding windows are shorter and typically occur during peak sun periods when water temperatures are slightly elevated	Deep weed edges where remaining vegetation meets deeper water (8-15 feet) Main lake points and bars adjacent to deep water that concentrate shad schools Protected coves and bays that hold warmer water and baitfish	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with large presentations to cover water and contact suspended fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through suspended bait schools	Shad schools concentrated in warmer, deeper water Various panfish species holding near remaining vegetation Bass utilizing similar deep structure areas	Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	48-58	Actively feeding near the bottom along weed edges and in pockets of remaining vegetation Highly concentrated in areas with remaining submerged vegetation, moving in loose schools	Matted grass pockets in 5-7 feet of water Deep weed edges adjacent to channels Protected coves with remaining vegetation	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Drop Shot Finesse Hair Jigs	Small insects and larvae Small minnows Aquatic invertebrates	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Pymatuning Reservoir

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and boulder fields in 5-12 foot depth range	Steep breaks adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rock and gravel areas near spawning sites, particularly on windward shorelines	Transition areas between deep winter haunts and shallow spawning grounds
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Emerging lily pad fields in 3-5 feet of water	Protected coves with early vegetation growth
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Staging areas near lily pad fields in 8-12 feet of water	Secondary points and creek channels leading to spawning coves
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Rock piles and points adjacent to deeper water, especially those leading to spawning flats	Protected coves with emerging vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Weed edges and emerging vegetation in 5-10 foot depth range	Points and inside turns adjacent to spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves with emerging vegetation in 4-8 feet of water	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock and boulder areas in 2-8 foot depth range, especially on points and in protected bays	Transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water, particularly along the complex shoreline
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky ledges and points in 10-19 foot depth range	Transition areas between spawning grounds and deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Scattered lily pad fields in 3-5 feet of water	Protected shallow coves with firm bottom
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected shallow coves with lily pads and submerged vegetation in 2-7 foot depth range	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Rocky points and riprap areas in 3-8 feet of water where the bottom warms quickly	Protected coves with emerging vegetation near deeper water access
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Submerged vegetation edges in 5-10 foot depth range, particularly where they meet deeper water	Complex shoreline areas with points and bays that provide staging areas near spawning habitat
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays with firm bottom and vegetation in 2-4 feet of water	Edges of lily pad fields in 5-7 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder and large rock areas in 6-8 foot depth range, particularly on the east side of islands	Sand and gravel transitions near rocky structure in shallow water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and adjacent flats near spawning areas	Submerged weed edges in 8-15 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Submerged vegetation in 8-10 foot depth zones, particularly where it creates edges or transitions	Secondary points with vegetation near deeper water access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Edges of lily pad fields in 5-7 foot depths where they transition to deeper water	Submerged vegetation edges near points and coves
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Rock piles and points adjacent to spawning flats in 5-15 feet of water	Areas near submerged vegetation and lily pads where baitfish concentrate
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Weed edges in 5-10 foot depth range, especially near points or breaks	Complex shoreline areas with multiple coves and points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Weed edges and scattered grass patches in 5-7 feet of water	Protected coves with emerging vegetation
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shallow weed beds adjacent to points in 5-6 foot depths	Rock piles with nearby steep drop-offs
Summer	Walleye	Weed edges and submerged vegetation in 10-19 foot depth range	Suspended over deeper water near structural breaks and ledges
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Weed edges and lily pad fields in 4-8 foot depth range	Deep dock edges adjacent to vegetation
Summer	Crappie	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake points in 10-15 feet	Lily pad fields with access to deeper water
Summer	Catfish	Lily pad edges in 5-7 feet of water	Rock piles near depth changes
Summer	Muskie	Deep weed edges in 8-12 foot range, especially where they intersect with points or drops	Main lake points with access to both shallow and deep water
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Lily pad fields in 5-7 feet of water, especially areas with clear pockets between pads	Matted grass edges where they meet slightly deeper water
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shallow rock humps and boulder piles in 5-8 foot range	Points and breaks adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Walleye	Edges of submerged vegetation in 10-19 foot depth range	Main lake points with access to deep water
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points adjacent to deep water access, especially those with remaining vegetation	Deep weedline edges in 8-12 feet where vegetation meets channel breaks
Fall	Crappie	Deep brush piles and submerged timber in 10-19 foot range	Edges of dying lily pad fields where they meet deeper water
Fall	Catfish	Deep holes adjacent to rock piles and points, especially in 15-25 foot depth range	Channel edges near remaining vegetation in 8-12 feet
Fall	Muskie	Deep weed edges adjacent to main lake points, especially in 8-15 foot depth range	Shallow bays with remaining green vegetation, particularly where they meet deeper water
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Matted grass beds in 10-19 foot depth range	Protected coves with remaining vegetation
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep rock piles and boulder fields adjacent to sharp breaks in 15-25 foot range	Secondary points with access to both deep water and shallow feeding zones
Winter	Walleye	Deep basin areas adjacent to structural breaks where baitfish schools suspend	Main lake points and steep breaks with access to deeper water
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Deep main lake points adjacent to major creek channels (8-15 feet)	Steep bluff walls with vertical structure
Winter	Crappie	Deep basin areas adjacent to structure, particularly in 15-19 foot depth range	Channel edges and deeper points near submerged vegetation
Winter	Catfish	Deep holes and channels adjacent to rock piles, typically 15-25 feet	Secondary break lines near points where depth changes are significant
Winter	Muskie	Deep weed edges where remaining vegetation meets deeper water (8-15 feet)	Main lake points and bars adjacent to deep water that concentrate shad schools
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Matted grass pockets in 5-7 feet of water	Deep weed edges adjacent to channels

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish schools in pre-spawn patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Yellow Perch staging in similar areas as walleyes	Small baitfish schools in transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools moving shallow	Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Small shad and minnows	Young perch
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools moving into warming shallows	Small panfish gathering near emerging vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Shad schools moving into warming shallows	Various panfish species around vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter locations	Small baitfish schools in pre-spawn patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Crappie	Perch
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crayfish emerging in warming shallows	Small bluegill and juvenile panfish
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Small minnows gathering in spawning areas	Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shad congregating in warming shallow waters	Small sunfish and crappie in emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shad (primary forage as noted in recent catch report)	Various panfish species utilizing the vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae around vegetation	Small minnows in and around weed edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows congregating around shallow structure	Crawfish emerging from winter patterns in rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Perch moving into early summer patterns	Crappie schools in transition areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools beginning to group up in post-spawn areas	Crappie present in similar depth ranges as bass
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Young-of-year shad beginning to school	Small minnows around vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools beginning to concentrate in warming waters	Crappie in similar depth ranges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Shad schools beginning to form in post-spawn period	Various panfish species around vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae emerging in warming waters	Small minnows gathering around vegetation
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows - primary forage based on recent reports	Insects - secondary forage noted in reports
Summer	Walleye	Schools of mixed baitfish	Yellow Perch
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools moving along weed edges	Crappie concentrations in and around vegetation
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending in deeper water	Small minnows around vegetation edges
Summer	Catfish	Minnows concentrated around vegetation	Shad in open water areas
Summer	Muskie	Shad schools suspending near structure and in open water	Various panfish species relating to weed edges
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects around vegetation	Small minnows in weed edges
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish on rocky structure	Baitfish schools in transition areas
Fall	Walleye	Perch - primary forage based on recent reports	Crappie - secondary forage mentioned in lake profile
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools congregating in coves and along channel edges	Crappie in remaining vegetation and around deeper structure
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools moving into deeper water	Small perch around remaining vegetation
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in deeper water	Crappie in remaining vegetation edges
Fall	Muskie	Shad schools migrating along deep weed edges	Various panfish species relating to remaining vegetation
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae in vegetation	Young-of-year baitfish
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Small baitfish schools concentrated in deeper water	Crawfish in rocky areas, less active but still present
Winter	Walleye	Crappie schools in mid-depth ranges	General baitfish schools suspending in deeper water
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Suspended shad schools in deeper water	Crappie in brush piles and dock structures
Winter	Crappie	Suspended shad schools in deeper water	Small minnows near channel edges
Winter	Catfish	Stunned or dying shad that are temperature-stressed	Bottom-dwelling creatures like crayfish
Winter	Muskie	Shad schools concentrated in warmer, deeper water	Various panfish species holding near remaining vegetation
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Small minnows

Bait Colors by Season for Pymatuning Reservoir

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