How to Fish Table Rock Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Table Rock Lake

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 22, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Table Rock Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	50-67	Bass are actively transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging points, following warming trends and becoming more aggressive as water temperatures rise from 50-61°F Fish are showing increased feeding activity on windblown points and banks where baitfish are concentrated Males are beginning to move shallower to prepare spawning areas, while larger females stage on nearby structure	Secondary points with gravel or chunk rock, especially those with wind exposure Backs of creeks and pockets where water warms faster 45-degree banks with chunk rock near spawning pockets	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along points and rocky banks Umbrella Rigs burned through suspended schools Neko Rigs worked slowly in warming pockets Carolina Rigs for finicky fish on points	Crawfish becoming active on rocky areas Shad schools concentrated by wind on points Minnows in shallow warming areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	50-58	Smallmouth bass are staging near pre-spawn areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning. Fish are relating to points, particularly those near creek mouths and traditional spawning flats. Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior when encountering bait schools, with reports of fish actively pushing baitfish onto points	Long extending points near the mouths of large to medium creeks, especially those with pea gravel composition Windblown, flat points with standing timber Rocky transition areas where bottom composition changes	Hard Jerkbaits worked aggressively with 5-second pauses Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along point contours Ned Rigs with craw-style baits on rocky points Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through bait pods	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy, especially active on gravel and rock bottom areas Shad schools congregating near points and creek mouths	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	43-58	Spotted bass are transitioning to pre-spawn locations, actively feeding while staging on structural elements near spawning areas Fish are showing suspended behavior around docks and timber, especially during sunny periods Cold fronts pushing fish slightly deeper (15-25ft) and relating more to points, while warming trends bring them shallower (8-12ft)	Docks with deep water access, especially those with standing timber nearby Secondary points closer to main channel breaks in 15-25ft Bluff walls with standing timber in 8-12ft	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly along points Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') around timber and bluff walls Damiki Rig for suspended fish under docks Spinnerbaits in dingy water areas	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports Crawfish - becoming active in warming water	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Crappie are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, following creek channels and staging near spawning flats Fish are becoming more active and aggressive, suspending around vertical cover and moving into shallower water as temperatures rise Feeding activity increases significantly as they prepare for spawn, with fish actively pursuing shad in the water column	Creek channels adjacent to spawning flats, especially where standing timber is present Docks in 8-15 feet of water near creek arms Shallow timber and brush in protected coves and creek arms	Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Dock Shooting Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling)	Shad schools transitioning to shallower water Small baitfish gathering in creek arms	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to spawning areas, following temperature changes and lengthening daylight Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased activity during dawn and dusk periods Movement patterns focus on staging areas near spawning locations, particularly around rocky points and boulder piles	Rocky points with adjacent deep water access, especially those with boulder piles Transition areas where rock meets gravel or sand, particularly in 8-15 foot depth range Protected creek arms with gravel or rock bottom structure	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with steady lift-drop cadence Live Bait Rigs with minimal movement to target neutral fish	Small baitfish congregating near spawning areas Juvenile shad in creek arms and protected bays Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish becoming more active in warming water	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	52-62	Staging near creek arms and river channels in preparation for spawning run Actively feeding on shad schools during warming trends Moving between deeper wintering areas and shallow spawning zones	Main creek channel bends and intersections near spawning tributaries Points and standing timber adjacent to spawning routes Secondary points in major creek arms	Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with steady retrieve along channel edges Lipless Crankbaits burned through staging areas	Shad schools congregating near channel swings Small baitfish gathering in pre-spawn staging areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	45-55	Pre-spawn pike are actively feeding and moving into shallow warming bays and spawning areas, particularly around newly emerging vegetation and woody cover Fish are most active during warming trends, exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior as they prepare for spawning Pike are utilizing the abundant shallow cover (brush, timber) in 10-25 foot transitions as staging areas	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and woody cover near spawning areas Secondary points leading into spawning bays Brush piles and standing timber in 10-25 foot transition zones	Spinnerbaits worked slowly around shallow cover and points Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves through staging areas Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses near woody cover	Shad schools moving into warmer, shallow waters Small panfish in emerging vegetation Baitfish concentrations around brush piles and timber	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	55-67	Largemouth bass are in various spawning phases, with some actively spawning and others staging in pre-spawn areas. Fish are moving from deeper staging areas to shallow spawning flats, particularly active during warmer parts of the day Post-cold front conditions have fish hugging bottom structure with slower, more deliberate feeding patterns. Morning and evening periods show increased activity	Sunny side docks and adjacent spawning pockets Rock piles and chunk rock in 2-6 foot depth range Brush piles and laydowns in creek backs and coves	Shakey Heads worked slowly along bottom structure Texas Rigs pitched to visible cover Drop Shot for deeper staging fish Soft Body Swimbaits around transition areas	Crawfish actively emerging in warming water Shad schools in creek arms and coves Bluegill starting to move shallow	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	53-60	Actively transitioning between pre-spawn staging and spawning, with fish moving from deeper points to shallow gravel areas Fish are relating heavily to structure on pea gravel points, particularly near stumps and rock piles as noted in recent tournament success	Pea gravel points with transitions to bluff walls Shallow gravel flats near spawning areas Flooded brush in spawning pockets	Damiki Rig with 1/8 oz jighead - proven tournament pattern Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked along transition areas Football Jigs worked on gravel points	Shad - actively mentioned in recent tournament reports Crawfish - typical spring forage on gravel/rock bottom	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-65	Fish are in spawning transition, splitting time between pre-spawn feeding and spawning activity, as evidenced by reports of both bedding fish and active feeding on points Actively chasing bait schools in wind-blown areas and responding well to moving baits, particularly around points and shallow structure	Main lake points with gravel or rock composition Shallow spawning pockets near deep water access Wind-blown points with active bait Docks in spawning pockets	Hard Jerkbaits worked with varying cadence in wind-blown areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for actively feeding fish on points Carolina Rigs with French fry worms on gravel points Wacky Rigs for bedding fish in shallow areas	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports Smaller baitfish in shallow areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Staging near shallow spawning areas in protected coves and creek arms, moving from pre-spawn staging areas to spawning beds as water temperatures stabilize Male crappie establish and guard nests in shallow water near vertical cover like standing timber and docks Females suspend nearby in slightly deeper water, moving shallow periodically to spawn	Protected shallow coves and creek arms with standing timber in 2-6 feet of water Dock areas in spawning pockets, especially those near creek channels Shallow timber adjacent to deeper water staging areas	Crappie Dock Shooting Bobbers Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling)	Shad concentrations in spawning areas Small baitfish in shallow creek arms Juvenile sunfish near cover	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye moving to shallow rocky areas and creek arms for spawning, actively feeding pre-spawn Fish transitioning between deep winter haunts and shallow spawning areas, congregating near structural transitions	Rocky points with transitional depths near spawning flats Creek arm entrances with boulder piles Shallow rocky flats adjacent to deeper water	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with minnows near spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around rocky structure	Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas Small bluegills near shallow structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	58-68	Aggressive spawning migration through river channels and creek arms, moving in large schools toward shallow spawning areas Males arrive first at spawning areas, followed by larger females staging in slightly deeper adjacent water Post-spawn fish remain active, returning to main lake points to feed heavily on shad	River channel intersections with creek arms where spawning runs concentrate Shallow gravel flats and rocky areas in creek arms (2-6 feet) for active spawning Main lake points adjacent to spawning areas for staging fish	Inline Spinners cast parallel to shorelines during the spawning run Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through spawning flats Underspins targeting staging fish near deeper water	Shad schools congregating near spawning areas Small baitfish in creek arms Juvenile sunfish in shallow spawning areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-52	Northern Pike are in shallow spawning areas (2-6 feet) near emergent vegetation and flooded brush, actively defending territories Post-spawn fish begin transitioning to feeding locations near points and secondary points, following baitfish movements	Shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation or flooded brush Secondary points adjacent to spawning areas Shallow timber areas in 5-10 foot range	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve Inline Spinners near emerging vegetation	Shallow shad schools Young of year panfish Small pike (cannibalistic behavior during spawn)	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	59-73	Post-spawn bass are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting shad and crawfish around transition areas between spawning flats and summer haunts Fish are showing a pattern of holding on structure in 8-16 foot depth range, particularly around points and rock features	Secondary points with adjacent spawning pockets, especially those with rock or brush Main lake points and transition banks with chunk rock and boulders Boat docks and brush piles in 8-16 foot range	Shakey Heads worked slowly along rocky points and transitions Carolina Rigs targeting post-spawn fish around secondary points Bladed Jigs worked around docks and shallow cover	Shad - actively spawning and primary forage during this period Crawfish - highly active in rocky areas during this temperature range	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	65-76	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding, transitioning between shallow spawning areas and summer patterns, with most active feeding during morning hours Fish are relating to both shallow and mid-depth structure, showing willingness to chase moving baits while also responding to slower presentations	Main lake laydowns in 3-10 foot depth range Flat banks with mixed boulder fields Secondary points with transitions to deeper water (16-22 feet)	Buzzbaits around shallow boulder areas during active feeding periods Neko Rigs worked slowly around laydowns Shakey Head presentations in deeper water during midday	Crawfish - primary forage based on recent reports and typical for season Shad - secondary forage showing up in shallower areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	68-78	Spotted bass are actively feeding in post-spawn phase, targeting shad and minnows in both shallow and transitional depths Fish showing a split pattern - aggressive surface feeding early morning, then moving to deeper structure as temperatures rise Exhibiting suspended feeding behavior around standing timber and main lake structure	Main lake points with access to deeper water Channel swings with small cuts adjacent to deeper water Standing timber areas near transitional depth zones	Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning hours Texas Rigs (Worming) along bottom structure as day progresses Umbrella Rigs around channel swings and suspended fish	Shad schools in transitional depths Minnows in shallow areas during morning hours	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	68-75	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, suspending near vertical cover and following shad schools Fish are becoming more active and aggressive as they recover from spawning, with peak feeding during morning and evening periods	Deeper docks adjacent to spawning flats, especially those with brush or standing timber Creek channel swings near coves and points with vertical cover Suspended timber in 15-25 foot depth range along migration routes	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along creek channels and points to locate active fish Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around standing timber and brush	Shad schools suspending near channel edges and points Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish around shallow cover Young-of-year baitfish beginning to emerge in shallower areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-65	Post-spawn walleye transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are moving along points and towards deeper structure, following baitfish schools and remaining active during lower light conditions due to stained water	Points with boulder piles in 8-15 foot depth range Transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water Isolated rock piles near creek channels	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Drop Shot Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Shad schools moving along points and channel edges Bluegill beginning to move shallow near rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	62-72	Post-spawn white bass are actively recovering and feeding, transitioning from spawning areas back to main lake structure Fish are schooling and chasing shad in the water column, often suspending near vertical structure like standing timber Most aggressive feeding occurs during early morning and evening periods, with fish moving shallower during these times	Main lake points adjacent to spawning tributaries Standing timber near river channel swings Secondary points with access to deeper water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at varying depths around structure Blade Baits vertically jigged near suspended schools Spinnerbaits retrieved through timber and along points	Shad schools recovering from winter pattern Small baitfish congregating near points and timber	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-68	Post-spawn pike are actively recovering and feeding heavily, particularly during early morning and late evening periods Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer habitat, following baitfish schools and utilizing abundant cover	Shallow bays with emerging weed growth adjacent to spawning areas Secondary points with brush piles in 10-15 foot range Standing timber edges where shad schools congregate	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to timber edges and through brush piles Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieve near baitfish schools Inline Spinners in shallow areas during low light periods	Shad schools congregating near structure Young-of-year panfish in emerging vegetation Smaller pike and other injured baitfish	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	84-95	Bass are holding on deep brush piles and structure in 18-25 foot range seeking cooler water during hot summer conditions Fish showing increased activity during low-light periods, particularly around dusk and night Bass being selective in their feeding, requiring longer presentations and precise bait placement in cover	Brush piles in 18-25 foot depth range on main lake Main lake points and secondary points Standing timber tops in 20-25 foot range	Drop Shot with slow, methodical presentations Texas Rigs worked slowly through brush piles Football Jigs dragged near deep structure	Shad in deeper water Bluegill around brush piles Crawfish on main lake points	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	72-82	Actively feeding on main lake points, relating to gravel-to-bluff transitions in 20-30 foot zones Suspending near vertical structure during midday heat, moving shallower during lower light periods	Gravel flat points with access to deep water Standing timber in 20-45 foot depth range Rock-to-bluff transition areas	Ned Rigs worked along bottom contours Drop Shot in deeper water during midday Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for suspended fish	Crawfish on gravel and rock areas Small baitfish around standing timber	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Spotted Bass	82-89	Spotted bass are actively feeding on shad in both timber and main lake areas, showing consistent activity throughout the day despite hot conditions Fish are suspending at mid-depths around vertical structure and moving between trees and points depending on bait location	Standing timber in 28-32 foot range, especially for larger quality fish Long points and offshore humps in 15-22 foot range where fish are schooling Main lake areas between Aunts Creek and Cow Creek	Drop Shot worked slowly with random pauses Shakey Heads around timber Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) for actively feeding schools	Shad schools suspending around timber and points Secondary baitfish relating to structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Crappie	72-85	Crappie suspend near vertical cover in large schools, often relating to standing timber and dock posts at 15-25 foot depths during the heat of summer Early morning and late evening feeding movements occur in shallower water (8-12 feet) around shad schools Fish become more tightly schooled during midday hours, seeking shade and cooler water in deeper areas	Deep standing timber adjacent to creek channels in 15-25 foot depths Shaded areas under and between floating docks, especially those near deeper water Creek channel bends with vertical cover where shad schools congregate	Crappie Spider Rigging - particularly effective for targeting suspended fish around standing timber Crappie Dock Shooting - ideal for accessing shaded areas under docks during bright conditions Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') - excellent for working specific pieces of cover when fish are tightly schooled	Shad schools suspending in the water column Small sunfish around dock structures Young-of-year baitfish gathering around vertical cover	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	78-84	Walleye are holding on deeper main lake points and structure during daytime hours due to warm summer temperatures Fish are schooling in small groups and actively feeding on shad, particularly during lower light conditions	Main lake points with boulder piles and distinct bottom transitions Deep structure near the dam and lower end of the lake Isolated rock piles and deep trees in the White River arm	Drop Shot with finesse baits, working vertically on active fish Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with jigging spoons around bait schools Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) along point transitions during active periods	Shad schools concentrated around deeper structure Bluegill relating to cover on points and transitions	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	White Bass	72-85	White Bass will be actively schooling and chasing shad in open water, especially during early morning and evening hours Fish suspend near vertical structure (standing timber) during mid-day, moving up to feed on shad schools during low light periods Schools will follow baitfish movements along channel swings and points, using these areas as ambush locations	Main lake points near channel swings with standing timber Suspended over treetops in 15-25 feet of water Open water areas where shad schools are present	Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended fish schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved at varying depths Spoons worked vertically through suspended fish	Shad schools (primary forage base) Small sunfish near structure Young-of-year baitfish in shallower areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	68-78	Pike are seeking cooler, more oxygenated water during peak summer temperatures, typically suspending near deep structure or following bait schools Most active feeding periods shift to early morning and evening hours when temperatures are moderate Transitioning between deep summer haunts and shallower feeding zones based on temperature and prey movement	Deep timber edges in 15-25 foot range adjacent to bait-holding areas Main lake points with access to deep water and suspended bait schools Shaded areas under overhanging timber or brush in 10-15 foot depths	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along timber edges and points Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through suspended bait schools Spinnerbaits worked along shade lines and timber edges	Shad schools suspending near structure Sunfish relating to shallow brush Young-of-year baitfish in various depth ranges	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Table Rock Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	65-75	Moving shallower to feed aggressively on shad and bluegill near hard cover and steep banks Transitioning from deeper to shallower water throughout the day, especially active in early morning around cover	Steep banks near bait concentrations Front sections of creek arms with docks Hard cover in shallow water (laydowns, rock piles)	Hard Topwater (Walking) worked along steep banks early morning Buzzbaits around shallow hard cover Structure Jigs worked slowly around docks and rock piles	Shad schooling in creek arms and on main lake points Bluegill around shallow cover and docks Crawfish on rock piles and hard bottom areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	66-72	Actively chasing shad schools in deeper water, particularly around channel swing points and standing timber in 25-35 foot range Some fish remaining shallow during cold fronts, utilizing docks and shallow structure as transition areas	Channel swing points in midlake areas with standing timber in 25-35 foot range Secondary points with pea gravel transitions Shallow docks during cold fronts	Drop Shot with shad-style baits in deeper water Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) slow rolled alongside timber Ned Rigs worked on pea gravel points Shallow Diving Crankbaits around docks during cold fronts	Shad (primary fall forage) Crawfish (secondary forage during transitions)	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	62-69	Spotted bass actively following shad schools in 20-40 foot depth ranges, often suspending near standing timber and deep structure Fish transitioning between shallow feeding zones and deeper holding areas as water temperatures cool, with increased activity around rock and timber structure	Standing timber in 20-30 foot depth range with nearby access to deeper water Deep rocky areas and boulders in 25-40 foot range First drop-offs from the bank where fish stage during feeding periods	Spinnerbaits worked through suspended timber and along depth transitions Drop Shot rigs worked vertically in deeper timber and rock structures Football Jigs worked along deep ledges and rocky bottom areas	Shad schools suspended in the water column Minnows relating to deep structure	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Crappie	58-72	Crappie are actively schooling and following shad migrations into creek arms and coves, suspending near bait pods Fish transition between shallow and deep water throughout the day, relating heavily to standing timber and dock structures	Creek channel bends with adjacent standing timber in 15-25 foot depths Deeper boat docks near creek channel swings Main lake points with timber that intersect migration routes	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along creek channels and point transitions Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around standing timber Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structure	Shad schools migrating into creeks Young-of-year baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Walleye	65-78	Walleye are transitioning to deeper structural elements, particularly focusing on boulder piles and points as primary feeding zones Fish are showing consistent patterns across large areas of the lake, with higher quality fish concentrated on the lower end	Isolated boulder piles on main lake points Deep tree structures in the lower end of the lake Rocky transitions near the dam area	Drop Shot with slow, methodical presentations on bottom structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) focusing on suspended fish near structure Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) working points and transitions	Bluegill relating to boulder piles and vertical cover Shad schools suspending near points and deeper structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	White Bass	62-78	White Bass actively schooling and chasing shad in open water, with frequent surface feeding activity during dawn and dusk Fish suspend near vertical structure (standing timber) and points during midday, actively hunting shad schools Moving between channel swings and main lake points following baitfish migrations	Main lake points adjacent to river channels where shad schools concentrate Standing timber in 15-25 foot depth range near channel swings Shallow flats and backs of creeks where shad schools are migrating	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at varying depths to match bait schools Spoons vertically jigged through suspended fish near timber Umbrella Rigs for actively feeding schools in open water Blade Baits worked along channel edges and points	Shad schools migrating to creek arms Young-of-year baitfish in shallow areas Suspended shad schools near standing timber	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	52-68	Northern Pike are actively feeding to build reserves for winter, following large schools of shad in the 10-25 foot range Fish are utilizing ambush points near depth changes and structure, especially during morning and evening periods Pike are making frequent movements between deeper structure and shallow feeding zones, particularly on overcast days	Secondary points with access to deep water and abundant timber in 10-25 foot range Shallow bays with remaining vegetation adjacent to deeper water Timber-lined creek channels and depth transitions where shad schools congregate	Spinnerbaits worked along timber edges and through brush piles Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near suspended bait schools Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along depth transitions and points	Shad schools suspending near structure Young-of-year baitfish gathering in shallow bays Panfish relating to brush piles and timber	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	44-57	Bass are actively following and feeding on suspended shad schools, often relating to vertical cover like standing timber Fish are scattered between shallow and deep water, with some suspending 15-30 feet deep over deeper water near vertical structure	Standing timber tops near bluff ends with suspended bait Main lake points, especially those with wind exposure Deep water areas with concentrated bait schools	Drop Shot and Damiki Rig for suspended fish around timber and bait Umbrella Rigs cast over suspended fish and tree tops Bladed Jigs on windy points Shallow Diving Crankbaits on bluff transitions	Shad - primary winter forage, mentioned in multiple reports Baitfish schools suspended in the water column	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	44-64	Fish are showing a two-phase pattern - suspending in deep water (70-100 feet) in schools around bait, and also utilizing shallower areas near deep water access Schooling behavior is pronounced, with fish of similar sizes grouping together, actively feeding on baitfish when located	Deep water suspending areas near bait schools in 70-100 feet Pea gravel banks on the main lake in 10-12 feet of water Docks with access to deep water, especially in 20-30 foot range	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Umbrella Rigs Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Baitfish schools (primary winter forage) Crawfish (secondary winter forage on pea gravel areas)	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	47-48	Spotted bass are actively following and feeding on large schools of shad in deep water, suspending near timber and channel swings Fish are holding in both deep main lake areas (20-50 feet) and transitional areas where channel swings meet structure	Main lake areas with concentrated bait schools and standing timber Channel swings with boulders and laydowns Bluff ends with standing timber	Damiki Rig - vertically presented to suspended fish identified on forward-facing sonar Umbrella Rigs - worked 5-10 feet above suspended fish near timber Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) - worked through bait schools	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports and suspended bait schools Crawfish - secondary forage especially near rocky areas and channel swings	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Crappie	38-48	Crappie are suspending near shad schools in deep water, particularly around creek channels and standing timber, with movements between 20-80 feet depending on bait location Fish are showing a preference for vertical structure and dock shade lines, moving between depths based on daily weather conditions and shad movements	Deep standing timber adjacent to creek channels in 20-80 foot depths Main lake and secondary creek docks, especially those on channel swings Original creek channel edges and bends in major creek arms	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with light jigheads (1/16-1/32 oz) around timber Crappie Dock Shooting under docks with Bobby Garland style baits Damiki Rig when fish are suspended with shad schools	Shad schools suspended in 60-80 foot depth range Smaller shad pods relating to dock areas and timber	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Walleye	38-48	Walleye concentrating on deep structure such as boulder piles and points, moving shallower during low light periods in the stained water Active feeding during dawn and dusk, with fish following shad and bluegill schools near bottom transitions	Deep boulder piles and points in 15-25 foot range near channel bends Isolated rock piles adjacent to deep trees, especially in the lower end of the lake Steep shoreline transitions where deep water meets shallow flats	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigging spoons or blade baits Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with minnows near structure	Winter-pattern shad schools in deeper water Smaller bluegill near deep structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Winter	White Bass	45-52	White Bass will be schooling heavily in deep water, often suspending near vertical structure or over river channels Fish are actively feeding on shad schools, which are typically concentrated in deeper water during winter Most active feeding periods occur during stable weather patterns and often during mid-day when water temperatures peak	Deep river channels and channel swings, especially where they intersect with points Standing timber in 20-35 feet of water Deep points adjacent to major creek arms	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Spoons Umbrella Rigs	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Small baitfish relating to deep structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	44-58	Pike are actively feeding in the water column, following shad schools and utilizing brush piles and standing timber as ambush points With moderate water clarity (2.3m Secchi), pike are most active during low-light periods and overcast conditions	Brush piles and standing timber in 10-25 foot range near points Secondary points with access to deeper water Areas where shad schools are congregating near structure	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around brush piles and timber Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along points and timber edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through suspended bait schools	Shad schools suspended in the water column Smaller fish utilizing brush piles for cover	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Table Rock Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points with gravel or chunk rock, especially those with wind exposure	Backs of creeks and pockets where water warms faster
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Long extending points near the mouths of large to medium creeks, especially those with pea gravel composition	Windblown, flat points with standing timber
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Docks with deep water access, especially those with standing timber nearby	Secondary points closer to main channel breaks in 15-25ft
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Creek channels adjacent to spawning flats, especially where standing timber is present	Docks in 8-15 feet of water near creek arms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points with adjacent deep water access, especially those with boulder piles	Transition areas where rock meets gravel or sand, particularly in 8-15 foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Main creek channel bends and intersections near spawning tributaries	Points and standing timber adjacent to spawning routes
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation and woody cover near spawning areas	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Sunny side docks and adjacent spawning pockets	Rock piles and chunk rock in 2-6 foot depth range
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Pea gravel points with transitions to bluff walls	Shallow gravel flats near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with gravel or rock composition	Shallow spawning pockets near deep water access
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected shallow coves and creek arms with standing timber in 2-6 feet of water	Dock areas in spawning pockets, especially those near creek channels
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points with transitional depths near spawning flats	Creek arm entrances with boulder piles
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	River channel intersections with creek arms where spawning runs concentrate	Shallow gravel flats and rocky areas in creek arms (2-6 feet) for active spawning
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays and coves with emerging vegetation or flooded brush	Secondary points adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points with adjacent spawning pockets, especially those with rock or brush	Main lake points and transition banks with chunk rock and boulders
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake laydowns in 3-10 foot depth range	Flat banks with mixed boulder fields
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with access to deeper water	Channel swings with small cuts adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Deeper docks adjacent to spawning flats, especially those with brush or standing timber	Creek channel swings near coves and points with vertical cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Points with boulder piles in 8-15 foot depth range	Transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Main lake points adjacent to spawning tributaries	Standing timber near river channel swings
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow bays with emerging weed growth adjacent to spawning areas	Secondary points with brush piles in 10-15 foot range
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Brush piles in 18-25 foot depth range on main lake	Main lake points and secondary points
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Gravel flat points with access to deep water	Standing timber in 20-45 foot depth range
Summer	Spotted Bass	Standing timber in 28-32 foot range, especially for larger quality fish	Long points and offshore humps in 15-22 foot range where fish are schooling
Summer	Crappie	Deep standing timber adjacent to creek channels in 15-25 foot depths	Shaded areas under and between floating docks, especially those near deeper water
Summer	Walleye	Main lake points with boulder piles and distinct bottom transitions	Deep structure near the dam and lower end of the lake
Summer	White Bass	Main lake points near channel swings with standing timber	Suspended over treetops in 15-25 feet of water
Summer	Northern Pike	Deep timber edges in 15-25 foot range adjacent to bait-holding areas	Main lake points with access to deep water and suspended bait schools
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Steep banks near bait concentrations	Front sections of creek arms with docks
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Channel swing points in midlake areas with standing timber in 25-35 foot range	Secondary points with pea gravel transitions
Fall	Spotted Bass	Standing timber in 20-30 foot depth range with nearby access to deeper water	Deep rocky areas and boulders in 25-40 foot range
Fall	Crappie	Creek channel bends with adjacent standing timber in 15-25 foot depths	Deeper boat docks near creek channel swings
Fall	Walleye	Isolated boulder piles on main lake points	Deep tree structures in the lower end of the lake
Fall	White Bass	Main lake points adjacent to river channels where shad schools concentrate	Standing timber in 15-25 foot depth range near channel swings
Fall	Northern Pike	Secondary points with access to deep water and abundant timber in 10-25 foot range	Shallow bays with remaining vegetation adjacent to deeper water
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Standing timber tops near bluff ends with suspended bait	Main lake points, especially those with wind exposure
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep water suspending areas near bait schools in 70-100 feet	Pea gravel banks on the main lake in 10-12 feet of water
Winter	Spotted Bass	Main lake areas with concentrated bait schools and standing timber	Channel swings with boulders and laydowns
Winter	Crappie	Deep standing timber adjacent to creek channels in 20-80 foot depths	Main lake and secondary creek docks, especially those on channel swings
Winter	Walleye	Deep boulder piles and points in 15-25 foot range near channel bends	Isolated rock piles adjacent to deep trees, especially in the lower end of the lake
Winter	White Bass	Deep river channels and channel swings, especially where they intersect with points	Standing timber in 20-35 feet of water
Winter	Northern Pike	Brush piles and standing timber in 10-25 foot range near points	Secondary points with access to deeper water

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish becoming active on rocky areas	Shad schools concentrated by wind on points
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy, especially active on gravel and rock bottom areas	Shad schools congregating near points and creek mouths
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports	Crawfish - becoming active in warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad schools transitioning to shallower water	Small baitfish gathering in creek arms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Small baitfish congregating near spawning areas	Juvenile shad in creek arms and protected bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools congregating near channel swings	Small baitfish gathering in pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shad schools moving into warmer, shallow waters	Small panfish in emerging vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish actively emerging in warming water	Shad schools in creek arms and coves
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad - actively mentioned in recent tournament reports	Crawfish - typical spring forage on gravel/rock bottom
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports	Smaller baitfish in shallow areas
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shad concentrations in spawning areas	Small baitfish in shallow creek arms
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools in pre-spawn staging areas	Small bluegills near shallow structure
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools congregating near spawning areas	Small baitfish in creek arms
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow shad schools	Young of year panfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad - actively spawning and primary forage during this period	Crawfish - highly active in rocky areas during this temperature range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish - primary forage based on recent reports and typical for season	Shad - secondary forage showing up in shallower areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools in transitional depths	Minnows in shallow areas during morning hours
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad schools suspending near channel edges and points	Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish around shallow cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools moving along points and channel edges	Bluegill beginning to move shallow near rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools recovering from winter pattern	Small baitfish congregating near points and timber
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shad schools congregating near structure	Young-of-year panfish in emerging vegetation
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad in deeper water	Bluegill around brush piles
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish on gravel and rock areas	Small baitfish around standing timber
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schools suspending around timber and points	Secondary baitfish relating to structure
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending in the water column	Small sunfish around dock structures
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated around deeper structure	Bluegill relating to cover on points and transitions
Summer	White Bass	Shad schools (primary forage base)	Small sunfish near structure
Summer	Northern Pike	Shad schools suspending near structure	Sunfish relating to shallow brush
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling in creek arms and on main lake points	Bluegill around shallow cover and docks
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad (primary fall forage)	Crawfish (secondary forage during transitions)
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shad schools suspended in the water column	Minnows relating to deep structure
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools migrating into creeks	Young-of-year baitfish
Fall	Walleye	Bluegill relating to boulder piles and vertical cover	Shad schools suspending near points and deeper structure
Fall	White Bass	Shad schools migrating to creek arms	Young-of-year baitfish in shallow areas
Fall	Northern Pike	Shad schools suspending near structure	Young-of-year baitfish gathering in shallow bays
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Shad - primary winter forage, mentioned in multiple reports	Baitfish schools suspended in the water column
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Baitfish schools (primary winter forage)	Crawfish (secondary winter forage on pea gravel areas)
Winter	Spotted Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports and suspended bait schools	Crawfish - secondary forage especially near rocky areas and channel swings
Winter	Crappie	Shad schools suspended in 60-80 foot depth range	Smaller shad pods relating to dock areas and timber
Winter	Walleye	Winter-pattern shad schools in deeper water	Smaller bluegill near deep structure
Winter	White Bass	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Small baitfish relating to deep structure
Winter	Northern Pike	Shad schools suspended in the water column	Smaller fish utilizing brush piles for cover

Bait Colors by Season for Table Rock Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	White Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Fall	White Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Winter	White Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals