How to Fish Raystown Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Raystown Lake

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: Apr 29, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Raystown Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	40-52	Fish transitioning from winter patterns, actively feeding but remaining relatively deep near 15-25 foot brush piles and laydowns with access to deeper water Showing suspended feeding behavior with increased activity during early morning periods Responding well to slow, methodical presentations with extended pauses, indicating pre-spawn feeding but not yet aggressive	Brush piles in 15-25 feet of water with nearby deeper water access Laydowns and wood cover adjacent to deeper water Rocky points with gradual transitions to spawning flats	Damiki Rig with suspended presentations over brush piles Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses between twitches Drop Shot worked slowly around vertical structure	Shad suspended near brush piles and structure Crawfish beginning to emerge in rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	48-62	Largemouth bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding on crawfish around shallow wood and rock structure Fish are making periodic movements from deeper winter areas to shallower pre-spawn locations, especially during warmer periods	Shallow wood and rock structure, particularly laydowns in protected areas Secondary points leading into spawning coves Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to spawning flats	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around shallow wood cover Spinnerbaits along transition areas Bladed Jigs near submerged vegetation	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Shad schools in transition areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	52-65	Actively transitioning from winter deep-water patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, following shad schools and stocked trout Aggressive feeding behavior as fish prepare for spawning, with most active periods during early morning and evening hours Stripers are starting to move into shallower water, particularly in areas where bait is concentrated	Main lake points adjacent to deep water access Open water/basin areas where bait schools are present Shallow tributary arms where water is warming fastest	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Umbrella Rigs Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) Live Bait Rigs	Shad schools transitioning to shallower water Stocked trout in cooler water zones Various baitfish congregating in warming areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	45-58	Trout are transitioning from winter depths to pre-spawn staging areas, becoming more active with warming temperatures Fish are following baitfish schools (shad/alewife) while utilizing standing timber and island structure as reference points Most active during early morning and evening periods, moving shallower during low light conditions	Standing timber areas in 15-25 foot depth range near deeper water access Current breaks and structure around Marty's Island Points and steep breaks adjacent to spawning areas	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along contour breaks and around structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near standing timber Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through baitfish schools	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas Alewife becoming more active in warming water Small baitfish gathering around structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	38-48	Lake trout becoming more active as water temperatures rise, moving from deep winter haunts to transitional pre-spawn locations between 20-40 feet Feeding activity increases with warming trends, targeting schools of pelagic baitfish (shad and alewife) near structure and drop-offs	Deep points and drop-offs adjacent to potential spawning areas, typically 20-40 feet deep Areas with submerged timber that provide vertical structure and shade Complex shoreline areas with steep breaks near deep water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with downriggers along structure edges Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near suspended bait schools Spoons worked vertically through bait schools	Shad schools suspending near structure Alewife concentrations in transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Panfish are transitioning to shallower waters and staging near spawning areas, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are beginning to feed more aggressively, particularly during warmer afternoons, targeting small insects and baitfish in the shallows	Shallow ledges adjacent to potential spawning flats in 3-8 feet of water Protected coves with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning bays in 5-12 feet of water	Bobbers with small jigs or live bait suspended 2-4 feet below the surface Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with light jigs around shallow cover Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through transitional areas	Small insects and larvae near emerging vegetation Young-of-year shad and alewife in shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	52-62	Fish are in various spawning stages with some actively on beds near banks while others are staging in pre-spawn areas Active feeding periods noted during evening hours, particularly around points and riprap in 52-58°F water Fish responding well to both aggressive reaction strikes and finesse presentations depending on their spawning stage	Riprap banks with nearby deeper water access Rocky points with gradual slopes Rock piles adjacent to spawning flats Protected shallow areas with hard bottom for bedding	Hard Jerkbaits worked with short jerks and pauses near the bank Drop Shot for bed fishing and deeper staging fish Spinnerbaits for active fish off the beds	Shad - primary forage based on multiple recent reports Crawfish - becoming active in warming water around rocky areas	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Bass moving to shallow protected areas with firm bottom for spawning, staging on adjacent deeper points pre-spawn Males building and guarding nests in 2-6 foot depths, while females move between shallow and deeper transition areas	Protected shallow coves with firm bottom and cover Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays Shallow submerged vegetation and laydowns in 2-6 foot range	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) Wacky Rigs	Crawfish emerging in shallow areas Shad moving into spawning areas Small bluegill in shallow cover	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	52-65	Striped bass are actively feeding during spring spawn, following large bait schools in open water/basin areas while also utilizing transitional areas Fish are responsive to larger forage presentations, as evidenced by success with live trout, suggesting aggressive feeding behavior	Open water/basin areas where bait schools are congregating Points and irregular shoreline features near deeper water Transitional areas between shallow and deep water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with live bait or artificial presentations Umbrella Rigs to mimic bait schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through bait schools	Trout (as evidenced by successful live bait fishing) Shad schools (primary forage base mentioned in lake profile)	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	42-55	Trout are transitioning from winter deep-water patterns to spawning locations, actively feeding in preparation for spawn Fish are becoming more aggressive but still influenced by cold fronts, moving between deep and shallow water based on conditions	Near-shore drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas, particularly around standing timber Deep water staging areas 25-35ft near structural features Island areas creating current breaks and baitfish concentrations	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with consistent speed to cover water Live Bait Rigs near structure and drop-offs Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are concentrated	Shad and alewife schools in transitional areas Small baitfish concentrated around structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	42-52	Lake trout moving from winter deep-water haunts to shallow, rocky spawning areas (15-30ft) as water temperatures begin to rise Fish are becoming more active but still maintaining proximity to deeper water access for temperature regulation Feeding patterns increasing in frequency but remaining selective, with focus on larger baitfish	Rocky points and shoals with quick access to deep water Submerged timber areas adjacent to spawning grounds Complex shoreline structures with drop-offs near spawning areas	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along spawning area edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') over identified fish concentrations Spoons worked through suspended fish marking on electronics	Shad schools suspending near spawning areas Alewife concentrations in transition zones Small lake trout (cannibalistic feeding common in spring)	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively moving into shallow protected areas for spawning, particularly in coves and near shoreline structure Males guarding nesting sites in colonies, becoming more aggressive and territorial Feeding opportunistically between spawning activities, especially during morning and evening periods	Protected shallow coves with firm bottom near submerged vegetation Areas between docks with brush piles in 2-6 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning bays	Bobbers with small live bait or jigs worked slowly around visible beds Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to structure Finesse Hair Jigs worked with subtle movements near spawning areas	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas Young-of-year shad and alewife Small crustaceans around vegetation	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Post-spawn smallmouth are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, with fish showing recovery feeding behavior but at a slower pace Fish are utilizing both shallow and deep structure, showing a preference for rock piles and brush piles as recovery areas	Rock piles with nearby deep water access Brush piles in 20-30 foot range Main lake points with mixed rock and brush structure	Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom structure Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses between twitches Drop Shot near brush piles for suspended fish	Minnows suspending near brush piles Crawfish in rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	64-75	Post-spawn bass are actively feeding to recover energy, focusing on shallow to mid-depth zones around woody cover and baitfish schools Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior with water temperatures between 64-75°F, particularly around shad and alewife concentrations	Shallow wood cover and laydowns near spawning pockets Areas with active baitfish schools in 5-15 foot range Secondary points with submerged vegetation adjacent to spawning areas	Bladed Jigs worked around shallow cover Hard Jerkbaits for suspended fish around baitfish schools Spinnerbaits along wood cover edges	Shad schools in shallow to mid-depth ranges Alewife in open water areas Crawfish emerging in shallow rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	62-72	Post-spawn striped bass are actively feeding and recovering, following large schools of shad in open water and along points Fish are making transitional movements from spawning areas to summer haunts, often suspending in the water column	Main lake points and channel breaks adjacent to spawning areas Open water basin areas where shad schools are present Secondary points with access to deeper water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with multiple lines to cover water effectively Umbrella Rigs to mimic shad schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through suspended fish	Shad schools in open water Stocked trout in cooler, deeper sections Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	48-58	Post-spawn trout are actively feeding to recover energy, transitioning between shallow and mid-depth ranges depending on light conditions and water temperature Fish are following baitfish schools (shad/alewife) and utilizing standing timber as ambush points Movement patterns show daily shifts from deeper water during bright conditions to shallower areas during low light periods	Standing timber areas in 15-25 foot depth range Structure around Marty's Island, especially points and current breaks Deep-water access points near shoreline complexity	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along timber edges and island structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for actively feeding fish	Shad schools moving in mid-depth ranges Alewife concentrations near structure Various small baitfish utilizing timber areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	45-52	Lake trout are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, becoming more active as they recover from spawn and seek optimal temperature zones Fish are following baitfish schools (shad and alewife) while maintaining proximity to deep-water sanctuaries	Main lake points and drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas, typically in 20-35 foot depth range Areas with standing timber near deep water access, providing shade and ambush points Complex shoreline structures where deep water meets the shoreline, especially in areas with congregating baitfish	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with downriggers along depth transitions Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Spoons worked through baitfish schools	Shad schools moving into warming shallow waters Alewife beginning their seasonal movements	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Actively feeding in shallower zones after spawning, targeting abundant invertebrates and small baitfish near vegetation and brush piles Moving between shallow cover and slightly deeper transitions during daily feeding periods	Submerged vegetation edges in 5-12 feet of water Brush piles adjacent to spawning flats Protected coves with complex shoreline structure	Bobbers with light jigs near cover Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly through vegetation Inline Spinners for active fish	Small insects and invertebrates near vegetation Young-of-year shad and alewife Small minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	75-85	Actively feeding on both crawfish and baitfish near rock piles and submerged vegetation, showing dual feeding patterns Moving between shallow and deep water throughout the day, with deeper holding patterns during peak heat	Rock piles in 15-25 foot range, especially those near deep water access Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to deeper water Main lake points with mixed rock and brush structure	Finesse Jigs worked slowly along rock piles Carolina Rigs dragged through deeper structure Blade Baits for suspended fish near vegetation	Crawfish around rocky structure Shad suspended near vegetation Minnows relating to rock piles	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	72-85	Actively feeding during early morning and late evening, utilizing dock shade and submerged vegetation as ambush points during midday heat Transitioning between shallow and deeper water based on light conditions, with some fish holding on steep bluff walls in traditional summer patterns	Docks with floating debris and deeper access, especially those near bank ends Steep bluff walls and ledges with vertical structure Submerged vegetation edges, particularly in areas with clear water	Drop Shot worked along steep walls and ledges Spinnerbaits around docks and in low-light conditions Bladed Jigs through submerged vegetation	Shad - primary forage based on multiple recent reports Minnows - secondary forage mentioned in vegetation areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	68-85	Striped bass are forced to seek thermal refuges in deeper water during hot summer days, typically suspending in the 20-30ft range near standing timber or channel edges Early morning and late evening feeding patterns are common as fish move shallower to pursue shad schools in lower light conditions	Deep standing timber in 30-35ft range, especially near channel edges Main lake points adjacent to deep water Open water areas where shad schools are present	Trolling Deep (20'+) Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+ Umbrella Rigs Live Bait Rigs	Shad schools in open water Stocked trout in deeper, cooler water	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Trout	58-68	Trout are seeking thermal refuge in deeper water due to warm surface temperatures, concentrating around the thermocline and moving deeper during bright midday conditions Feeding activity is most aggressive during early morning and late evening, with fish following baitfish schools in the cooler, deeper water	Deep structure near Marty's Island where currents concentrate baitfish Standing timber areas in 30-35 foot depth range Deep points and dropoffs adjacent to main lake basin	Trolling Deep (20'+) along structure edges and through baitfish schools Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are spotted on electronics Spoons worked through suspended bait schools	Shad schools concentrated in deeper, cooler water Alewife following similar deep-water patterns as shad Various small fish seeking refuge in standing timber	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Lake Trout	48-52	Lake trout seeking thermal refuge in deep water (25-45ft) near structure due to warm surface temperatures, primarily feeding during dawn/dusk periods Fish suspending near thermocline edges and concentrating around submerged timber and points where cool water meets structure	Deep points and drop-offs adjacent to standing timber in 30-45ft range Main lake structure near thermocline depth where shad and alewife congregate Deep water basins with good oxygen content, evidenced by striped bass presence	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers along depth contours where thermocline intersects structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are marked on electronics near standing timber Spoons worked vertically through suspended bait schools	Shad schools suspending near thermocline Alewife in deeper water columns	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	68-82	Actively feeding in and around submerged vegetation and brush piles during early morning and evening hours Moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper refuge areas during midday heat	Submerged vegetation edges in 4-12 feet of water Protected coves with brush piles Shaded areas under docks and overhanging vegetation	Bobbers with small jigs worked slowly through cover Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding under structures Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles	Small shad and alewife Aquatic insects in vegetation Small minnows	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Raystown Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-65	Transitioning toward deeper structure while actively feeding on crawfish, with slower and more methodical movements in cooling water Showing preference for rocky points and relating closely to bottom structure, requiring slower presentations	Main lake points with rock structure Deep brush piles in 20-30 foot range adjacent to points Rocky transition areas between shallow and deep water	Ned Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Drop Shot with small profile baits Football Jigs dragged slowly on rocky points	Crawfish, particularly around rocky structure Shad, suspending near deeper structure	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	58-72	Actively feeding on shad in preparation for winter, following baitfish schools into coves and creek arms Transitioning between shallow and deep water, utilizing stumps and brush piles as staging areas	Stumps and brush piles in 15-25 foot depth range Creek channel bends with adjacent structure Shallow flats near deep water access	Drop Shot with finesse worms around brush and stumps Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along transition areas Spinnerbaits near baitfish schools	Shad - primary forage based on recent reports Crawfish - secondary forage option in brush pile areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Actively chasing shad schools in open water and near points as baitfish migrate to creek arms and coves Transitioning between summer deep water patterns to shallower feeding zones, following cooling water temperatures Forming larger schools and exhibiting more aggressive feeding behavior as water temperatures become more favorable	Main lake points and channel swings where baitfish schools congregate during migration Creek arm mouths with significant depth changes Standing timber edges in 15-25 foot depth range near deep water access	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges and points where bait schools are present Umbrella Rigs cast toward surfacing bait schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are holding on structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through suspended bait schools	Shad schools migrating to creek arms Stocked trout in cooler water zones Various baitfish congregating near structure	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Trout	48-58	Trout are actively feeding on shad and alewife, following baitfish schools in the middle water column Fish are transitioning between summer deep water areas and fall feeding zones, primarily utilizing the 30-35ft depth range More aggressive feeding during low light conditions, especially around structure and current breaks	Standing timber areas in 30-35ft depth range Deep structure near Marty's Island current breaks Points and breaks adjacent to deep water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with controlled depth presentations Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure Spoons worked through bait schools	Shad schools in middle water column Alewife in deeper water Small baitfish near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Lake Trout	48-55	Lake trout are moving to more accessible depths (30-35ft) as surface temperatures cool to 51°F, actively feeding on pelagic baitfish Fish are relating to vertical structure like standing timber, using these areas as ambush points for foraging	Standing timber areas in 30-35 foot depth range Deep points and drop-offs near complex shoreline structures Pelagic zones with active baitfish schools	Trolling Deep (20'+) at 1.7mph along timber edges and through baitfish schools Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are spotted on electronics Spoons worked through suspended fish	Shad Alewife	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Panfish are transitioning to deeper water structures, following baitfish schools and preparing for winter Feeding becomes more aggressive during stable weather periods as fish build energy reserves for winter Schools become more concentrated around key structure, making them easier to target once located	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near channel edges Deep weed edges where vegetation is still green and holding baitfish Protected coves with remaining submerged vegetation	Drop Shot with small finesse baits worked slowly through brush piles Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near deep weed edges Crappie Spider Rigging along depth transitions	Shad and alewife schools congregating in deeper water Small minnows around remaining vegetation Aquatic insects near brush piles	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	38-43	Smallmouth bass are holding in deep brush piles and flooded timber in 20-30 foot depth range, suspending slightly off bottom Fish are grouping up and investigating baits with selective feeding behavior, requiring slow, methodical presentations	Brush piles and flooded timber in 20-30 foot depth range Deep ledges with vertical structure near bottom Deep points with brush or wood cover	Damiki Rig held steady 1-2 feet above fish Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked very slowly near bottom Drop Shot with small profile baits worked methodically	Shad schooling in deep water near brush Alewife suspended near deep structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Largemouth Bass	38-42	Largemouth bass suspending 1-2 feet off bottom near deep structure, particularly brush piles, making selective feeding movements Fish showing investigative behavior before striking, typical of winter metabolism rates requiring precise presentations	Brush piles in 20-30 foot depth range Laydowns with deeper water access Deep structural transitions near points and coves	Damiki Rig held 1-2 feet above brush piles Football Jigs dragged slowly across bottom near structure Drop Shot worked vertically over brush piles	Alewife suspending near brush piles Crawfish along bottom near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	38-42	Striped bass are schooling in deep standing timber, holding near concentrations of shad in 30-35 foot depths Fish are likely making periodic feeding movements to follow bait schools, but generally maintaining deeper winter holding patterns	Deep standing timber in 30-35 foot range Deep points near standing timber Main lake basin areas where shad schools are concentrated	Damiki Rig vertically presented in timber Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits worked vertically through bait schools	Shad concentrated in deep water Suspended baitfish in timber	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Trout	38-43	Trout remain actively feeding in winter with temps between 38-43°F, concentrating around deep structure and baitfish schools Fish are likely to hold near standing timber and island structures where baitfish concentrate for warmth and protection	Deep structure near Marty's Island where current breaks concentrate baitfish Standing timber areas in 30-35 foot depth range Deep water access points with nearby vertical structure	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near standing timber and island structure Trolling Deep (20'+) along deep structure edges Ice Fishing Spoons when fish are actively feeding on shad Live Bait Rigs with shad or alewife presentations	Shad schools concentrating in deeper water Alewife around structure and current breaks Smaller baitfish seeking thermal refuge near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	38-45	Lake trout are actively feeding in deep, cold water columns, typically moving between 30-45 feet deep where optimal winter temperatures exist Fish are primarily targeting schooling baitfish (shad and alewife) in open water areas near significant structure or drop-offs	Deep water areas adjacent to standing timber in 30-45 foot depths Main lake points and drop-offs where baitfish schools congregate Deep water basins near complex shoreline structures	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to maintain precise depth control Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are marked on electronics Spoons worked vertically through baitfish schools	Shad schools in deep water columns Alewife concentrations near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	38-42	Winter panfish are concentrated in middle depths, typically suspending near significant structure and forming tight schools Active feeding periods are shorter and more focused on prime daytime hours when water temperatures are most stable	Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 15-25 foot depth range Protected coves with consistent depths near deep water access Major structural transitions near the thermocline	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with slow, subtle presentations Ice Fishing Jigs worked with minimal movement Drop Shot with small profile baits	Small shad and alewife suspended in the water column Aquatic invertebrates near structure Small minnows relating to cover	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Raystown Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Brush piles in 15-25 feet of water with nearby deeper water access	Laydowns and wood cover adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow wood and rock structure, particularly laydowns in protected areas	Secondary points leading into spawning coves
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points adjacent to deep water access	Open water/basin areas where bait schools are present
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Standing timber areas in 15-25 foot depth range near deeper water access	Current breaks and structure around Marty's Island
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Deep points and drop-offs adjacent to potential spawning areas, typically 20-40 feet deep	Areas with submerged timber that provide vertical structure and shade
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow ledges adjacent to potential spawning flats in 3-8 feet of water	Protected coves with emerging vegetation in 2-6 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Riprap banks with nearby deeper water access	Rocky points with gradual slopes
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected shallow coves with firm bottom and cover	Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Open water/basin areas where bait schools are congregating	Points and irregular shoreline features near deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Near-shore drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas, particularly around standing timber	Deep water staging areas 25-35ft near structural features
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Rocky points and shoals with quick access to deep water	Submerged timber areas adjacent to spawning grounds
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow coves with firm bottom near submerged vegetation	Areas between docks with brush piles in 2-6 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles with nearby deep water access	Brush piles in 20-30 foot range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow wood cover and laydowns near spawning pockets	Areas with active baitfish schools in 5-15 foot range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points and channel breaks adjacent to spawning areas	Open water basin areas where shad schools are present
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Standing timber areas in 15-25 foot depth range	Structure around Marty's Island, especially points and current breaks
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Main lake points and drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas, typically in 20-35 foot depth range	Areas with standing timber near deep water access, providing shade and ambush points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Submerged vegetation edges in 5-12 feet of water	Brush piles adjacent to spawning flats
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles in 15-25 foot range, especially those near deep water access	Submerged vegetation edges adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Docks with floating debris and deeper access, especially those near bank ends	Steep bluff walls and ledges with vertical structure
Summer	Striped Bass	Deep standing timber in 30-35ft range, especially near channel edges	Main lake points adjacent to deep water
Summer	Trout	Deep structure near Marty's Island where currents concentrate baitfish	Standing timber areas in 30-35 foot depth range
Summer	Lake Trout	Deep points and drop-offs adjacent to standing timber in 30-45ft range	Main lake structure near thermocline depth where shad and alewife congregate
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Submerged vegetation edges in 4-12 feet of water	Protected coves with brush piles
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with rock structure	Deep brush piles in 20-30 foot range adjacent to points
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Stumps and brush piles in 15-25 foot depth range	Creek channel bends with adjacent structure
Fall	Striped Bass	Main lake points and channel swings where baitfish schools congregate during migration	Creek arm mouths with significant depth changes
Fall	Trout	Standing timber areas in 30-35ft depth range	Deep structure near Marty's Island current breaks
Fall	Lake Trout	Standing timber areas in 30-35 foot depth range	Deep points and drop-offs near complex shoreline structures
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near channel edges	Deep weed edges where vegetation is still green and holding baitfish
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Brush piles and flooded timber in 20-30 foot depth range	Deep ledges with vertical structure near bottom
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Brush piles in 20-30 foot depth range	Laydowns with deeper water access
Winter	Striped Bass	Deep standing timber in 30-35 foot range	Deep points near standing timber
Winter	Trout	Deep structure near Marty's Island where current breaks concentrate baitfish	Standing timber areas in 30-35 foot depth range
Winter	Lake Trout	Deep water areas adjacent to standing timber in 30-45 foot depths	Main lake points and drop-offs where baitfish schools congregate
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 15-25 foot depth range	Protected coves with consistent depths near deep water access

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad suspended near brush piles and structure	Crawfish beginning to emerge in rocky areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Shad schools in transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools transitioning to shallower water	Stocked trout in cooler water zones
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas	Alewife becoming more active in warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Shad schools suspending near structure	Alewife concentrations in transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae near emerging vegetation	Young-of-year shad and alewife in shallow areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple recent reports	Crawfish - becoming active in warming water around rocky areas
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish emerging in shallow areas	Shad moving into spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Trout (as evidenced by successful live bait fishing)	Shad schools (primary forage base mentioned in lake profile)
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Shad and alewife schools in transitional areas	Small baitfish concentrated around structure
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Shad schools suspending near spawning areas	Alewife concentrations in transition zones
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas	Young-of-year shad and alewife
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows suspending near brush piles	Crawfish in rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools in shallow to mid-depth ranges	Alewife in open water areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools in open water	Stocked trout in cooler, deeper sections
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Shad schools moving in mid-depth ranges	Alewife concentrations near structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Shad schools moving into warming shallow waters	Alewife beginning their seasonal movements
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and invertebrates near vegetation	Young-of-year shad and alewife
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish around rocky structure	Shad suspended near vegetation
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple recent reports	Minnows - secondary forage mentioned in vegetation areas
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools in open water	Stocked trout in deeper, cooler water
Summer	Trout	Shad schools concentrated in deeper, cooler water	Alewife following similar deep-water patterns as shad
Summer	Lake Trout	Shad schools suspending near thermocline	Alewife in deeper water columns
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small shad and alewife	Aquatic insects in vegetation
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish, particularly around rocky structure	Shad, suspending near deeper structure
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad - primary forage based on recent reports	Crawfish - secondary forage option in brush pile areas
Fall	Striped Bass	Shad schools migrating to creek arms	Stocked trout in cooler water zones
Fall	Trout	Shad schools in middle water column	Alewife in deeper water
Fall	Lake Trout	Shad	Alewife
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Shad and alewife schools congregating in deeper water	Small minnows around remaining vegetation
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schooling in deep water near brush	Alewife suspended near deep structure
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Alewife suspending near brush piles	Crawfish along bottom near structure
Winter	Striped Bass	Shad concentrated in deep water	Suspended baitfish in timber
Winter	Trout	Shad schools concentrating in deeper water	Alewife around structure and current breaks
Winter	Lake Trout	Shad schools in deep water columns	Alewife concentrations near structure
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small shad and alewife suspended in the water column	Aquatic invertebrates near structure

Bait Colors by Season for Raystown Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors