How to Fish Smith Mountain Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Smith Mountain Lake

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

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Smith Mountain Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Pre-spawn bass are actively feeding and staging near spawning areas, following shad and targeting crawfish. Fish are making transitional movements from winter areas to pre-spawn staging areas. Fish are particularly active on windblown banks and around bait concentrations, with aggressive feeding behavior noted in 2-15 foot depth range.	Windblown banks with visible bait activity in 2-15 feet of water Rip rap areas, particularly those adjacent to deeper water Points and pockets near spawning flats	Hard Jerkbaits worked aggressively in areas with visible bait activity Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along rip rap and transition areas Lipless Crankbaits around shallow feeding zones	Shad schools concentrated in pre-spawn areas Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	52-64	Actively feeding on crawfish around rocky structures and transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging locations Moving between deep structure and shallow feeding zones, particularly active during warming trends	Main lake points with natural rock structure Riprap banks, especially those near deeper water Brush piles adjacent to spawning flats	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along rocky banks and points Hard Jerkbaits around brush piles and suspended fish Drop Shot near deeper structure when fish are less active	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Shad schools in transition areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	52-65	Striped bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn, actively feeding on shad schools in preparation for spawning. Fish are becoming more aggressive and schooling heavily to corral bait. Due to the turbid water (0.7m Secchi), fish are concentrating in the upper water column, especially during low light periods, with increased surface feeding activity as water temperatures approach 65°F.	Main lake points and steep rock walls where bait schools congregate Creek arm mouths and major coves where pre-spawn staging occurs Wind-blown banks and surface disturbance areas that concentrate bait	Umbrella Rigs worked through bait schools and along structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near surface during low light Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are holding deeper on structure	Shad schools preparing for spring spawn Blueback herring in open water and along structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Pre-spawn crappie are staging and scattered, with larger females beginning to move up from deep water staging areas towards spawning grounds Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with larger females being more aggressive	Deep brush piles and structure in 20'+ near spawning areas Transition areas between deep staging areas and shallow spawning coves Protected coves and pockets with abundant cover	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad Small baitfish	Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	52-65	Gradually moving from winter deep-water areas to shallower pre-spawn staging areas, becoming more active with warming trends Feeding activity increases as water temperatures rise, with peak activity during dawn and dusk periods Utilizing channel edges and transition areas between deep and shallow water as staging points	Deep channel bends adjacent to shallow flats, especially near tributary mouths Brush piles and laydowns in 10-20 foot depth range Secondary points with access to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with slip sinkers for natural presentation Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around structure Carolina Rigs worked slowly along depth transitions	Bluegill beginning to move shallow Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns Bottom-dwelling invertebrates becoming more active	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, becoming more active with warming water temperatures Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, particularly during dawn and dusk periods Males arrive at spawning areas first, with females staging slightly deeper nearby	Rocky main lake points near spawning areas Deep structure transitions in 15-20ft adjacent to spawning flats Brush piles and dock structures in 10-20ft range serving as staging areas	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with minnows near staging areas Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around deeper structure	Shad schools suspended near structure Small baitfish relating to brush piles and docks Crawfish becoming active on rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegill and panfish are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging, beginning to move into warmer, shallower areas near potential spawning sites Fish are becoming more active with warming trends, feeding opportunistically on small invertebrates and baitfish near shallow cover and structure	Protected shallow coves with hard bottom and woody cover, especially on the north side of the lake where water warms first Dock areas in 4-8 foot depths adjacent to spawning flats Natural laydowns and brush in protected areas with sun exposure	Bobbers with light jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep near cover Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly around dock posts and brush Micro Crankbaits retrieved steadily through staging areas	Small aquatic insects and larvae Tiny baitfish and fry Zooplankton	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	54-65	Fish are in multiple spawn phases - pre-spawn, actively spawning, and post-spawn, with water temperatures ranging from 54-65°F. Males are guarding beds in shallow areas while females are either staging nearby or cruising for bedding sites. Bass become more aggressive during warming trends and retreat under docks or to deeper water during cold fronts. Fish are especially active during late afternoon once water warms.	Docks with deep water access, especially those near spawning flats Isolated wood structures and laydowns in shallow water Hard-to-reach places around stumps and brush piles in 2-5 feet of water	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for bed fishing and working shallow cover Ned Rigs and Drop Shot for finicky spawning fish Wacky Rigs for skipping under docks Bladed Jigs for covering water in stained conditions	Crawfish actively moving in shallow areas Bluegill becoming active in warming shallows Shad starting to move shallow for early spawn activity	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	60-64	Actively spawning and bed-guarding in shallow areas, particularly around docks and rock piles, with some fish still cruising for bedding spots Males are highly territorial and aggressive towards threats to their nests, while pre-spawn fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves	Docks with adjacent spawning flats, particularly in protected areas Rock piles and shoals in spawning depth zones Protected shallow flats with firm bottom composition	Ned Rigs worked slowly around beds and spawning areas Wacky Rigs skipped under docks and worked through spawning flats Drop Shot with finesse presentations for cruising fish	Bluegill focusing around dock areas Alewife moving through spawning flats Crawfish active in rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	62-68	Schooling striped bass actively pushing bait against structure, particularly along steep rock walls and points during the spawn period Fish are surface-oriented during shad spawn, with peak feeding activity occurring in the upper water column	Steep rock walls with nearby deep water access Main lake points and ledges where bait schools congregate Open water areas where schools are actively chasing bait	Hard Topwater (Prop) - specifically Whopper Plopper style baits worked over active bait schools Umbrella Rigs - effective when fish are actively feeding on schooling bait Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) - mimicking larger shad in areas where bait is present	Shad - primary forage during spawn period with surface activity Blueback Herring - secondary forage base mentioned in lake profile	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie are transitioning from deeper pre-spawn staging areas to shallower spawning locations in protected coves and pockets Fish are actively feeding during the spawn preparation, with males beginning to establish and guard nesting areas Due to stained water conditions (0.7m clarity), fish are holding tighter to visible structure and staying in shallower water than typical	Protected shallow coves with flooded brush in 2-6 feet of water Secondary points leading into spawning pockets Transition areas between staging and spawning zones in 8-15 feet	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) around visible brush and structure Bobbers with precise depth control for spawning fish Crappie Spider Rigging for targeting transitional fish	Shad concentrating in spawning pockets Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish in shallow brush	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Catfish are transitioning to spawning behavior, moving from deeper winter areas to shallower flats and protected coves where they'll establish nesting sites Males begin creating and guarding nest cavities in areas with structure like brush piles and laydowns, while females stage in slightly deeper adjacent areas Feeding activity increases as water warms, with most active periods during dawn and dusk	Protected shallow coves with abundant brush piles and laydowns in 3-8 feet of water Areas near deep water access where spawning flats meet channel edges Dock areas in coves that provide both cover and spawning habitat	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live bluegill positioned near spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles and laydowns Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting visible cover in spawning areas	Bluegill moving into shallow spawning areas Shad schools in creek arms and coves Bottom-dwelling creatures like crawfish becoming more active	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye actively moving to spawning areas on rocky main lake points and adjacent flats during spring spawn Males stage in pre-spawn areas first, with females moving in as water temperatures approach ideal spawning range Post-spawn fish transition to nearby drop-offs and suspend near baitfish schools	Rocky main lake points with natural rock (primary spawning locations) Adjacent flats in 5-15 foot range near spawning areas Deep structure near spawning areas (staging locations)	Live Bait Rigs with slow presentations Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around spawning areas Blade Baits worked slowly through staging areas	Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns Herring moving shallow with warming water Small baitfish gathering near spawning areas	Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	62-75	Actively moving into shallow areas (2-6 feet) to prepare spawning beds, with males becoming territorial and aggressive Utilizing brush, laydowns, and hard cover near shoreline areas for spawning activities and protection Most active during morning and evening hours, particularly in the stained water conditions	Protected shallow coves with hard bottom and woody cover Areas between docks with natural wood cover or brush Shallow points with gravel or sand substrate near deeper water access	Bobbers with light line and small offerings worked slowly around cover Finesse Hair Jigs worked with subtle movements near spawning areas Live Bait Rigs for particularly pressured fish	Small insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small baitfish fry	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	72-78	Bass are actively feeding in post-spawn phase, splitting time between shallow and deeper water with aggressive topwater strikes during low light periods Fish are utilizing both shallow feeding zones near points/riprap and deeper brush pile sanctuaries as they recover from spawn	Main lake points and riprap banks, especially near creek mouths Docks providing shade in 10-15 foot depth range Brush piles near creek mouth areas	Hard Topwater (Walking) during morning and evening hours Finesse Jigs worked around docks and brush Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for dock fishing	Shad spawning on hard surfaces and points Bluegill in shallow areas around docks Crawfish around rocky areas and riprap	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Actively feeding and cruising around rocky structure and laydowns, showing aggressive post-spawn behavior Utilizing shaded areas during daytime, particularly under trees and around structure	Rock piles and chunk rock areas with nearby deeper water Laydowns and fallen trees, especially in shaded pockets Main lake points with good structure	Drop Shot with finesse presentations around rock structure Wacky Rigs skipped under shaded cover Hard Jerkbaits worked along points	Blueback Herring actively pursued in open water Bluegill around shallow cover Crawfish around rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	62-72	Striped bass are actively feeding on blueback herring and shad in surface waters, especially during shad spawn periods Fish are schooling and pushing bait against structure, particularly around points and steep rock walls	Main lake points where stripers can ambush schooling bait Steep rock walls adjacent to deep water Areas where creek arms meet main lake - prime bait congregation zones	Hard Topwater (Prop) - matches the aggressive surface feeding patterns Umbrella Rigs - effective for actively feeding fish on schooling bait Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) - mimics primary forage	Blueback Herring - primary forage noted in recent reports Shad - abundant and spawning during this period	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	68-78	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, suspending near deeper structure Fish are actively feeding to recover from spawn, with feeding periods becoming more concentrated during dawn and dusk Schools are beginning to reform and relate heavily to brush piles and standing timber in 8-15 foot depth ranges	Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to spawning bays in 8-15 foot depths Main lake points with access to deeper water Creek channel swings near spawning pockets with woody cover	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')	Shad (primary forage base moving to main lake areas) Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish in brushy areas	Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	58-72	Post-spawn catfish become increasingly active, moving from deeper wintering areas to feeding zones in moderate depths (8-15 feet), especially around structure Fish are establishing regular feeding patterns, becoming more aggressive as water warms, with peak activity during dawn and dusk periods	Brush piles and laydowns in 8-15 feet of water, especially near creek channel bends Dock areas with deep water access, particularly those with brush or structure nearby Secondary points and creek mouths with access to both shallow and deep water	Live Bait Rigs with slip sinkers for natural presentation in brush Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around dock structures Carolina Rigs worked slowly through transitional areas	Bluegill congregating around dock areas and shallow structure Shad schools moving into creek arms and along points Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas and around brush	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-65	Post-spawn walleye transitioning from spawning areas to early summer feeding patterns, actively hunting during low light periods near points and drop-offs Fish suspending near baitfish schools during the day, moving shallow to feed during overcast conditions or early/late	Rocky main lake points transitioning to deeper water Deep docks in 10-20ft range with brush piles Secondary points with access to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along depth transitions Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near suspended bait schools Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') during low light periods	Shad schools recovering from winter patterns Young of year baitfish beginning to emerge Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Post-spawn bluegills are actively feeding to recover energy, gradually transitioning from shallow spawning areas to nearby deeper structure Fish are becoming more structure-oriented, utilizing docks and woody cover as primary holding areas while feeding on insects and small crustaceans	Docks adjacent to spawning flats in 4-8 feet of water Shallow brush and laydowns near shoreline points Protected coves with stable water levels and abundant structure	Crappie Dock Shooting Live Bait Rigs Finesse Hair Jigs	Aquatic insects and larvae Small crustaceans Tiny baitfish fry	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	68-86	Primarily feeding on shad and blueback herring in early mornings, with additional activity on crawfish near rocky structure Fish are establishing summer patterns, splitting between shallow feeding zones and deeper brush pile sanctuaries as temperatures fluctuate	Main lake points with brush piles in 10-15ft range Rip rap banks near main lake, especially during shad activity Brush piles at mouth of pockets	Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning shad activity Drop Shot on brush piles in 10-15ft range Texas Rigs (Worming) on rocky points in 5-10ft Shakey Heads around brush piles during midday	Shad (primary forage during summer spawning activity) Blueback Herring (active early morning spawning) Crawfish (around rocky structure and rip rap)	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	68-82	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding during early morning and evening hours, utilizing rock structures and dock areas as ambush points During midday heat, fish move to deeper structure adjacent to feeding areas, suspending near docks and rock piles in 15-25 foot range Aggressive feeding periods coincide with baitfish movements, particularly around points and deep structure edges	Main lake points with rock structure and quick access to deeper water Dock structures, especially those extending into deeper water Deep rock piles adjacent to shallow feeding flats	Drop Shot worked along deeper dock edges and rock structure Tubes dragged and hopped through rocky areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) during active feeding periods Ned Rigs worked slowly around deeper structure during tough midday periods	Blueback herring and shad schooling in open water Crawfish in rocky areas Bluegill around dock structures	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	72-85	Striped bass will be schooling in deeper, cooler water during daylight hours, moving up to feed during low light periods Fish actively push bait schools against main lake structure and points, creating feeding frenzies when bait is trapped Due to turbid conditions (0.7m Secchi), fish tend to stay in upper portion of water column, especially during feeding periods	Deep main lake points adjacent to open water, especially those with steep rock walls Creek arm mouths where bait schools congregate Main channel edges near significant depth changes	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with umbrella rigs and large swimbaits during morning hours Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) cast near surface activity during low light periods	Shad schools suspending in the water column Blueback herring relating to structure Small sunfish near rocky points	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Crappie	75-85	Crappie are establishing summer patterns, suspending near deep brush piles and channel edges during the day Fish actively feed during early morning and evening periods, moving shallower to feed on shad Schools become more concentrated and suspended in the water column due to thermal stratification	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near channel swings Shaded dock areas in deeper pockets Creek channel edges adjacent to flats where shad congregate	Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')	Shad schools suspended in the water column Small bluegill around brush and dock structures	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Catfish	75-85	Catfish are actively feeding during low-light periods, especially early morning and night, seeking prey around dock structures and brushpiles Fish are utilizing deep water refuges during bright midday hours but moving shallow to feed, particularly around structure with access to multiple depth zones	Boat docks with deep water access, especially those with brush or laydowns nearby Brush piles and laydowns in 15-25 foot depth range Creek channel bends and deeper holes adjacent to shallow feeding flats	Live Bait Rigs with bottom presentation near structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around dock posts and brush Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) during midday hours	Bluegill Shad	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Walleye	68-82	Walleye are suspending near thermocline depths, actively feeding during low light periods and moving deeper during bright midday hours Fish are relating strongly to deep structure like brush piles and dock edges in 10-20ft range, using these as ambush points	Deep brush piles and dock edges in 10-20ft range where shad are schooling Main lake points with natural rock, especially those adjacent to deeper water Suspended positions near thermocline over deeper main lake areas	Drop Shot with finesse presentations targeting suspended fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around brush piles and dock edges Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along points and thermocline edges	Shad schools suspending near structure and thermocline Herring relating to deeper main lake areas Young-of-year baitfish around dock areas	Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	72-85	Panfish are being forced off shallow cover due to low water levels, concentrating around dock structures for shade and protection Fish are likely feeding actively during early morning and evening hours, seeking shade during bright midday periods	Docks in deeper water, especially those near the main lake Shaded areas between dock clusters Deeper brush piles adjacent to docks	Crappie Dock Shooting Inline Spinners Live Bait Rigs	Small baitfish around dock structures Aquatic insects in shaded areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Smith Mountain Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	65-73	Bass are actively feeding on shad and crawfish, primarily relating to docks near creek channels and secondary points Fish are showing a preference for shaded areas, particularly the back sections of docks where there's less fishing pressure Movement patterns indicate fish are transitioning between shallow and deeper water, with most active feeding during morning hours	Docks positioned near creek channel intersections and creek mouths Secondary points in creeks and main lake coves, especially in 15-20 foot range Rocky banks at creek mouth areas	Drop Shot with finesse presentations in deeper water around dock pilings Ned Rig worked slowly around docks and points Shakey Heads skipped under docks, especially in shaded areas Jigs (both football and finesse) dragged slowly near structure	Shad schooling near points and creek mouths Crawfish around docks and rocky areas Baitfish relating to deeper dock pilings	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-68	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter, following baitfish schools and targeting crawfish around rock structure Fish are transitioning between shallow and deep water throughout the day, utilizing points and drop-offs as staging areas	Main lake points with rock structure and quick access to deeper water Rip rap areas and rock piles adjacent to deeper water Docks in deeper pockets, especially those near channel swings	Drop Shot with finesse baits worked slowly along deep structure Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended baitfish schools Tubes dragged along rocky bottom transitions	Blueback herring and shad schooling in open water Crawfish still active around rock structure Bluegill relating to dock structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Striped bass actively schooling and chasing large bait balls in the main lake, particularly during early morning and evening hours Fish are transitioning from summer deep water patterns to shallower feeding zones, following bait movements	Main lake points and steep rock walls where bait schools congregate Creek arm mouths and major channel intersections Shallow flats adjacent to deep water access where shad schools are present	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with umbrella rigs and swimbaits along channel edges Hard Topwater (Walking) during low light periods when fish are surface feeding Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics	Shad schools congregating in creek arms and along channel edges Blueback herring relating to main lake structure and points	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Crappie	55-72	Crappie are transitioning from summer patterns and actively following shad schools into creek arms and coves Fish are schooling more tightly and becoming increasingly structure-oriented as water cools Feeding activity increases during this time as fish prepare for winter, with most active periods during morning and evening	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near creek channel bends Standing timber adjacent to creek channels Secondary points with access to deeper water	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Spider Rigging	Shad schools moving into creeks Small bluegill near brush Young-of-year baitfish	Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Catfish	55-72	Catfish actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, with increased activity during daylight hours as water cools Moving between shallow feeding areas and deeper structural elements, following baitfish migrations Becoming more concentrated around high-percentage areas like deep brush piles and channel swings	Deep brush piles and laydowns near channel edges (15-25 feet) Secondary points with access to deeper water Boat dock areas with nearby deep water access	Live Bait Rigs with larger offerings Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Texas Rigs (Worming) near structure	Shad schools moving into creek arms Bluegill holding near brush and docks Bottom-dwelling crawfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Walleye	52-65	Walleye are actively feeding on shad schools to build up reserves for winter, following baitfish migrations to creek arms and coves Fish are suspending near deep structure during midday, moving shallower during low light periods to ambush prey	Main lake points with natural rock in 15-25 foot range Deep brush piles and dock structures adjacent to creek channels Creek arm flats where shad schools are present	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits	Shad schools Herring	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-68	Transitioning to deeper dock structures and brush piles as water cools, actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter Forming loose schools around primary structural elements, with most active feeding during mid-morning and afternoon periods	Deep dock edges in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to deeper water Secondary points with hard bottom composition near dock areas	Crappie Dock Shooting Drop Shot Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9')	Small minnows and shad gathering in dock areas Aquatic insects still active in slightly warmer water Young-of-year panfish	Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	45-50	Bass are holding on deep structures and transition areas with limited movement, conserving energy in cold water Occasional feeding windows when temperature rises slightly, especially in afternoon hours Beginning to show pre-spawn movements as temperatures approach 50°F in some areas	Deep docks on secondary and main lake points near deep water access Riprap banks with access to deeper water Tapering main lake points with natural rock Laydowns in the backs of creeks (especially during afternoon warming periods)	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked slowly along rocky areas and points Football Jigs worked slowly around dock pilings with 5-10 second pauses Drop Shot finesse presentation for inactive fish Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses for suspended fish	Crawfish (primary winter forage around rocky areas) Shad (suspended in deeper water and around structure)	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	38-45	Smallmouth bass are holding tight to deep structure, particularly ledges and isolated rock piles near deep water, suspending nearby and making targeted feeding movements Fish are exhibiting a preference for slower, bottom-oriented presentations, suggesting a more methodical feeding pattern typical of winter conditions	Ledges adjacent to deep water, especially those with rock or brush structure Isolated rock piles and brush piles in deeper water Deep structure near steep shoreline breaks, taking advantage of the lake's complex shoreline	Ned Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure Drop Shot rigs fished vertically near deep structure Finesse jigs worked methodically through rocky areas	Crawfish seeking shelter in rocky structure Small baitfish holding near deep structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Striped Bass	45-55	Striped bass schools are likely to suspend near large concentrations of baitfish in deep, main lake areas during winter Fish tend to be less aggressive but will actively feed during stable weather periods, especially during low-light conditions Schools typically hold in the upper portion of the water column due to limited light penetration in turbid conditions	Deep main lake points and steep rock walls where bait schools congregate River channel bends and intersections near major creek arms Shallow flats adjacent to deep water where bait schools may suspend	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigging spoons for suspended fish Trolling Deep (20'+) along channel edges and points Umbrella Rigs worked slowly through suspended bait schools	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Blueback herring suspending in the upper water column	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Crappie are schooling tightly in deeper brush piles, exhibiting classic winter behavior with reduced but focused feeding periods Fish are showing preference for staying close to woody cover, likely due to the stained water conditions providing ambush opportunities	Deep flooded brush piles in 15-25 foot range Secondary points with submerged brush near deeper water Protected coves with standing timber or brush	Tubes worked slowly through brush piles Ned Rigs presented vertically near brush Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+)	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Small bluegill relating to brush structure	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Winter	Catfish	42-52	Catfish become more lethargic and concentrate in deeper water areas, typically 20-35 feet, seeking stable temperatures Feeding windows are shorter but more predictable, often during mid-afternoon when water temperatures peak slightly Fish tend to group up more tightly in winter, creating opportunities for multiple catches once located	Deep holes near channel bends with brush piles or woody cover Deep water areas adjacent to steep shoreline breaks Protected coves with deep water access that warm up faster on sunny days	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Structure Jigs	Winter-stressed or dying shad Sluggish bluegills in deeper water Bottom-dwelling crawfish	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Winter	Walleye	45-52	Walleye are suspending near deep structure and following large schools of shad and herring in the main lake Fish are actively feeding during low-light periods and responding well to vertical presentations in the stained water conditions	Deep main lake points with natural rock in 15-25 foot range Brush piles and deep dock structures in 10-20 foot range Deep creek channel bends adjacent to flats where baitfish school	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Drop Shot Trolling Deep (20'+)	Shad schools in deep water Suspended herring Deep water baitfish schools	Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	42-52	Panfish are likely schooling in deeper areas near structure, particularly around docks and deeper hard cover, moving less and feeding more opportunistically in the colder water Due to the stained water conditions (0.7m secchi), fish will tend to hold higher in the water column even in deeper areas to maintain visual feeding advantage	Deep dock areas, especially those near channel swings or depth changes Brush piles and woody cover in 12-20 foot ranges Protected coves with consistent depth and structure	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Ice Fishing Jigs Drop Shot	Small invertebrates and zooplankton Dormant baitfish near structure Aquatic insect larvae	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Smith Mountain Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Windblown banks with visible bait activity in 2-15 feet of water	Rip rap areas, particularly those adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with natural rock structure	Riprap banks, especially those near deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points and steep rock walls where bait schools congregate	Creek arm mouths and major coves where pre-spawn staging occurs
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Deep brush piles and structure in 20'+ near spawning areas	Transition areas between deep staging areas and shallow spawning coves
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Deep channel bends adjacent to shallow flats, especially near tributary mouths	Brush piles and laydowns in 10-20 foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky main lake points near spawning areas	Deep structure transitions in 15-20ft adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow coves with hard bottom and woody cover, especially on the north side of the lake where water warms first	Dock areas in 4-8 foot depths adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks with deep water access, especially those near spawning flats	Isolated wood structures and laydowns in shallow water
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Docks with adjacent spawning flats, particularly in protected areas	Rock piles and shoals in spawning depth zones
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Steep rock walls with nearby deep water access	Main lake points and ledges where bait schools congregate
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected shallow coves with flooded brush in 2-6 feet of water	Secondary points leading into spawning pockets
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Protected shallow coves with abundant brush piles and laydowns in 3-8 feet of water	Areas near deep water access where spawning flats meet channel edges
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky main lake points with natural rock (primary spawning locations)	Adjacent flats in 5-15 foot range near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow coves with hard bottom and woody cover	Areas between docks with natural wood cover or brush
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Main lake points and riprap banks, especially near creek mouths	Docks providing shade in 10-15 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and chunk rock areas with nearby deeper water	Laydowns and fallen trees, especially in shaded pockets
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points where stripers can ambush schooling bait	Steep rock walls adjacent to deep water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Brush piles and standing timber adjacent to spawning bays in 8-15 foot depths	Main lake points with access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Brush piles and laydowns in 8-15 feet of water, especially near creek channel bends	Dock areas with deep water access, particularly those with brush or structure nearby
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky main lake points transitioning to deeper water	Deep docks in 10-20ft range with brush piles
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks adjacent to spawning flats in 4-8 feet of water	Shallow brush and laydowns near shoreline points
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Main lake points with brush piles in 10-15ft range	Rip rap banks near main lake, especially during shad activity
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with rock structure and quick access to deeper water	Dock structures, especially those extending into deeper water
Summer	Striped Bass	Deep main lake points adjacent to open water, especially those with steep rock walls	Creek arm mouths where bait schools congregate
Summer	Crappie	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near channel swings	Shaded dock areas in deeper pockets
Summer	Catfish	Boat docks with deep water access, especially those with brush or laydowns nearby	Brush piles and laydowns in 15-25 foot depth range
Summer	Walleye	Deep brush piles and dock edges in 10-20ft range where shad are schooling	Main lake points with natural rock, especially those adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks in deeper water, especially those near the main lake	Shaded areas between dock clusters
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Docks positioned near creek channel intersections and creek mouths	Secondary points in creeks and main lake coves, especially in 15-20 foot range
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with rock structure and quick access to deeper water	Rip rap areas and rock piles adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Striped Bass	Main lake points and steep rock walls where bait schools congregate	Creek arm mouths and major channel intersections
Fall	Crappie	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near creek channel bends	Standing timber adjacent to creek channels
Fall	Catfish	Deep brush piles and laydowns near channel edges (15-25 feet)	Secondary points with access to deeper water
Fall	Walleye	Main lake points with natural rock in 15-25 foot range	Deep brush piles and dock structures adjacent to creek channels
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep dock edges in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings	Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to deeper water
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Deep docks on secondary and main lake points near deep water access	Riprap banks with access to deeper water
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Ledges adjacent to deep water, especially those with rock or brush structure	Isolated rock piles and brush piles in deeper water
Winter	Striped Bass	Deep main lake points and steep rock walls where bait schools congregate	River channel bends and intersections near major creek arms
Winter	Crappie	Deep flooded brush piles in 15-25 foot range	Secondary points with submerged brush near deeper water
Winter	Catfish	Deep holes near channel bends with brush piles or woody cover	Deep water areas adjacent to steep shoreline breaks
Winter	Walleye	Deep main lake points with natural rock in 15-25 foot range	Brush piles and deep dock structures in 10-20 foot range
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep dock areas, especially those near channel swings or depth changes	Brush piles and woody cover in 12-20 foot ranges

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools concentrated in pre-spawn areas	Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Shad schools in transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools preparing for spring spawn	Blueback herring in open water and along structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad	Small baitfish
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill beginning to move shallow	Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools suspended near structure	Small baitfish relating to brush piles and docks
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects and larvae	Tiny baitfish and fry
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish actively moving in shallow areas	Bluegill becoming active in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bluegill focusing around dock areas	Alewife moving through spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad - primary forage during spawn period with surface activity	Blueback Herring - secondary forage base mentioned in lake profile
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shad concentrating in spawning pockets	Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish in shallow brush
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill moving into shallow spawning areas	Shad schools in creek arms and coves
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns	Herring moving shallow with warming water
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad spawning on hard surfaces and points	Bluegill in shallow areas around docks
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Blueback Herring actively pursued in open water	Bluegill around shallow cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Blueback Herring - primary forage noted in recent reports	Shad - abundant and spawning during this period
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad (primary forage base moving to main lake areas)	Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish in brushy areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Bluegill congregating around dock areas and shallow structure	Shad schools moving into creek arms and along points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools recovering from winter patterns	Young of year baitfish beginning to emerge
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small crustaceans
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad (primary forage during summer spawning activity)	Blueback Herring (active early morning spawning)
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Blueback herring and shad schooling in open water	Crawfish in rocky areas
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools suspending in the water column	Blueback herring relating to structure
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspended in the water column	Small bluegill around brush and dock structures
Summer	Catfish	Bluegill	Shad
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools suspending near structure and thermocline	Herring relating to deeper main lake areas
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Small baitfish around dock structures	Aquatic insects in shaded areas
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling near points and creek mouths	Crawfish around docks and rocky areas
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Blueback herring and shad schooling in open water	Crawfish still active around rock structure
Fall	Striped Bass	Shad schools congregating in creek arms and along channel edges	Blueback herring relating to main lake structure and points
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools moving into creeks	Small bluegill near brush
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools moving into creek arms	Bluegill holding near brush and docks
Fall	Walleye	Shad schools	Herring
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small minnows and shad gathering in dock areas	Aquatic insects still active in slightly warmer water
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish (primary winter forage around rocky areas)	Shad (suspended in deeper water and around structure)
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish seeking shelter in rocky structure	Small baitfish holding near deep structure
Winter	Striped Bass	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Blueback herring suspending in the upper water column
Winter	Crappie	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Small bluegill relating to brush structure
Winter	Catfish	Winter-stressed or dying shad	Sluggish bluegills in deeper water
Winter	Walleye	Shad schools in deep water	Suspended herring
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small invertebrates and zooplankton	Dormant baitfish near structure

Bait Colors by Season for Smith Mountain Lake

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