How to Fish Woods Reservoir: Best Patterns & Techniques

Woods Reservoir

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: Jun 20, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Woods Reservoir

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	46-65	Bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy for spawning Fish are moving shallow and relating to transitional structure, with reports showing activity in 2-5 feet of water Feeding windows are extending with warming trends, particularly evident around shad congregations in shallow water	Shallow flats with submerged vegetation in 2-5 feet of water Laydowns and woody cover in pre-spawn staging areas Creek arms and protected areas where water warms first	Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged slowly through shallow cover Bladed Jigs around shad concentrations and vegetation Umbrella Rigs during warming trends Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around laydowns and heavy cover	Shad congregating in shallow water Crawfish becoming more active in warming water	Chartreuse Colors Green Pumpkin Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	50-65	Smallmouth bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are becoming more aggressive and moving into shallower water as temperatures warm, particularly around rocky structure	Rocky points and flats in 6-8 foot depth range Brush piles near transitional areas Laydowns and woody structure in pre-spawn staging areas	Shakey Heads worked slowly along bottom structure Inline Spinners for more active fish Ned Rigs for pressured fish in clear water conditions	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Shad schools in transitional areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Crappie are transitioning from deeper winter areas towards spawning grounds, actively feeding on shad in and around submerged vegetation Fish are becoming more active with warming temperatures, showing increased feeding activity during stable weather patterns	Submerged vegetation edges in pre-spawn staging areas Brush piles adjacent to spawning flats Protected coves with emerging vegetation	Spoons worked slowly through vegetation Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) around vegetation edges Finesse Jigs near brush piles	Shad Small invertebrates in vegetation	Metallic Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	52-62	Pre-spawn striped bass actively staging in transition areas between wintering and spawning grounds, following large schools of shad Fish becoming increasingly aggressive as water temperatures rise, using points and current breaks as ambush locations Moving between deep water staging areas and shallow feeding zones, particularly during dawn and dusk	Main lake points near spawning tributaries or coves Current breaks and eddies near the dam structure Drop-offs 30-40 feet from shore where baitfish stage	Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended bait schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around points and structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved along depth transitions	Threadfin and Gizzard Shad schooling in pre-spawn patterns Injured or stressed baitfish separating from main schools	Natural Shad Colors Pink Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	58-68	Pre-spawn catfish are beginning to move from winter deep-water sanctuaries to staging areas near spawning flats, actively feeding to build energy reserves Fish are responding to wind-generated current and becoming more active in feeding zones around points and current breaks Showing increased activity during warming trends, moving up in the water column as temperatures rise	Points and channel drops in 15-25 foot range adjacent to spawning flats Current breaks near brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range Wind-blown shorelines with deeper water access	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or nightcrawlers near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Carolina Rigs worked slowly through staging areas	Shad schools moving into pre-spawn staging areas Crawfish becoming more active in warming shallows Small sunfish near brush piles	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	45-52	Pre-spawn yellow perch are actively feeding and schooling in preparation for spawning, typically moving from deeper winter areas toward shallower spawning grounds Fish are becoming more active with warming temperatures, showing aggressive feeding behavior especially during morning and evening hours	Transitional areas near vegetation in 6-8 feet of water, especially near brush piles Protected coves and pockets with emerging vegetation in 2-4 feet of water Points and irregular shoreline features adjacent to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Inline Spinners Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Small minnows gathering in warming shallows Shad schools in transition areas Aquatic insects becoming more active in vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	48-58	Trout are actively feeding in oxygenated water near the dam and moving into transitional zones as spring temperatures warm Fish are exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior, particularly around moving water and structure, targeting shad and other baitfish	Dam area and associated current breaks where oxygenated water creates prime feeding zones Transitional zones 30-40 feet from bank where brush piles and submerged vegetation provide ambush points Complex shoreline areas with coves and points that offer multiple depth options as temperatures fluctuate	Inline Spinners worked through current seams near dam and along structure edges Trolling Shallow (0-9') with bright-colored lures parallel to transitional zones Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked near brush piles and submerged vegetation	Shad schools congregating near structure and dam area Small baitfish utilizing brush piles and vegetation for cover	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-72	Bass are transitioning into spawning areas, actively patrolling and defending territories in shallow water Feeding activity is heightened pre-spawn, with aggressive strikes on moving baits Fish are relating to shallow cover and staging areas near spawning flats	Docks with 6-8 foot depths, especially those adjacent to spawning flats Brush piles in coves at 6-8 foot depths Areas with current breaks where baitfish are present	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') with fast retrieves around docks and brush Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for following baitfish schools Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for working shallow cover	Shad schools actively moving in 6-8 foot depths Minnows gathering around dock areas	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	60-65	Smallmouth are actively spawning and guarding fry in 6-8 ft depth range, with males aggressively defending nests Fish are moving between spawning flats and slightly deeper adjacent areas, showing increased aggression during morning hours	Rocky flats and pea-gravel bottom areas in 6-8 ft depth Rock piles and boulder fields in 3-6 ft of water Protected spawning areas near deeper water access	Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning hours for aggressive strikes Shakey Heads worked very slowly on spawning flats Drop Shot for sight fishing bedding bass	Crawfish emerging in shallow rocky areas Shad schools in adjacent deeper water	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	55-66	Moving shallow (2-8 feet) around brush piles and submerged vegetation for spawning, with most active periods during stable weather Pre-spawn fish staging near spawning areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for reproduction	Shallow brush piles and submerged vegetation in protected coves Secondary points leading into spawning bays Dock areas with nearby vegetation or brush	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) Bobbers Finesse Hair Jigs	Shad (primary forage base confirmed in reports) Small sunfish and juvenile baitfish in spawning areas	Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Striped bass are in pre-spawn to spawning mode, moving from deeper winter haunts to staging areas near spawning tributaries and current-swept points. Fish are aggressive and feeding heavily to prepare for spawning. Schools are breaking up into smaller groups, with larger females becoming more solitary as they prepare to spawn. Fish are actively pursuing shad in 30-40 foot transitions and along points.	Current-swept main lake points near spawning tributaries and dam structure Drop-offs and depth transitions 30-40 feet from shore where baitfish stage Protected coves and secondary points serving as pre-spawn staging areas	Umbrella Rigs worked along depth transitions to mimic shad schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near points and current breaks Hard Jerkbaits worked aggressively around baitfish schools	Shad schools congregating near spawning areas and depth transitions Injured or stressed post-spawn baitfish	Natural Shad Colors Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	58-70	Moving into shallower pre-spawn areas near brush piles in 6-8 foot range, actively feeding to prepare for spawn Responding to wind-generated current and utilizing current breaks as feeding zones Transitioning between winter deep water areas and spawning locations, following shad movements	Brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range near spawning flats Current breaks and points with deep water access Shallow vegetation zones adjacent to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or whole shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles and current breaks Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through shallow vegetation	Shad schools transitioning to shallow water Small fish utilizing brush pile cover Crawfish becoming active in shallow areas	Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	48-58	Moving into shallow areas (2-4 feet) with vegetation for spawning, actively feeding before and after spawning periods Congregating in large schools near spawning areas, particularly around matted grass and lily pad edges	Shallow vegetation in 2-4 feet of water, especially areas with matted grass and lily pads Brush piles in 6-8 feet adjacent to spawning areas serving as staging locations Protected pockets near heavy vegetation where water warms first	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms worked slowly near vegetation Inline Spinners retrieved steadily through spawning areas Bobbers with small jigs suspended near vegetation edges	Small minnows gathering in spawning areas Aquatic insects emerging in warming waters Young-of-year shad in shallow areas	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	48-58	Trout are actively spawning and feeding in shallower, well-oxygenated areas, particularly near the dam and in transitional zones 30-40 feet from bank Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior during pre-spawn, targeting shad and responding well to moving baits in moderate clarity water	Dam area with moving, oxygenated water Transitional zones 30-40 feet from bank near brush piles and submerged vegetation Complex shoreline areas with coves and points	Inline Spinners worked near dam and around structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) targeting transitional zones Hard Jerkbaits worked in shallow to mid-depth ranges	Shad schools in transitional zones Small baitfish utilizing brush piles and vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	68-76	Post-spawn bass are actively feeding on shad around points and vegetation edges, transitioning between shallow and mid-depth zones Fish are showing aggressive reaction strikes on moving baits, particularly around the 8-10 foot depth range	Points in 8-10 foot depth range with access to deeper water Edges of matted grass with open pockets Shallow vegetation flats adjacent to deeper water	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') Spinnerbaits Swim Jigs	Shad Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	62-68	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, utilizing boulder fields and rocky areas in moderate depths Fish are responding well to bottom presentations in clear water conditions, showing aggressive feeding behavior during wind-influenced periods	Boulder fields and rock piles in 6-12 foot depth range Main lake points with scattered rock Wind-blown rocky shorelines and irregular features	Shakey Heads worked slowly along bottom structure Drop Shot with finesse presentations in clear water Soft Jerkbaits for more active fish, especially during windy conditions	Shad schools moving along rocky structure Crawfish emerging from rocky areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	62-72	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer locations, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are schooling around brush piles and submerged vegetation, showing preference for structured areas that provide cover and feeding opportunities	Brush piles in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near spawning flats Submerged vegetation edges where they intersect with deeper water Secondary points with wood cover or vegetation	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) around brush piles and vegetation Crappie Spider Rigging to methodically work deeper brush pile areas Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly through cover	Shad (primary forage based on lake reports) Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish	Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors Natural Shad Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	62-72	Striped bass are actively feeding in post-spawn recovery phase, following large schools of shad in open water and along depth transitions Fish are suspending and utilizing ambush points near points and current breaks, with frequent movement patterns 30-40 feet from shore	Open water/basin areas where bait schools are suspending Points and current breaks near depth transitions Dam structure areas with current-related feeding opportunities	Spoons worked vertically through suspended fish Umbrella Rigs mimicking bait schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along depth transitions	Shad schools in open water Injured or stressed baitfish Yellow Bass (incidental forage)	Pink Colors Natural Shad Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Post-spawn catfish actively feeding and recovering, moving from deep spawning areas to feeding zones along channel edges and points Following shad schools in 6-15 foot depth range, particularly during wind-generated current periods Utilizing brush piles and current breaks as ambush points during peak feeding periods	Points with access to deep water and current breaks Brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range Shallow vegetation zones near channel edges	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or chicken liver near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles Carolina Rigs worked slowly along point drops	Shad schools in mid-depth ranges Smaller fish utilizing brush pile cover Crawfish emerging in shallow areas	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	55-65	Post-spawn yellow perch are actively feeding to recover energy, forming loose schools in and around vegetation edges and brush piles Fish are making daily movements between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper resting zones, particularly active during dawn and dusk	Weed edges and pockets in 4-8 feet of water near brush piles Shallow flats with mixed vegetation in 2-4 feet of water Secondary points with submerged vegetation	Inline Spinners worked steadily through vegetation edges Live Bait Rigs with small minnows near brush piles Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around thick vegetation	Small minnows and shad Newly hatched fry Aquatic insects	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	52-62	Post-spawn trout actively feeding in oxygenated areas, particularly near dam discharge and transitional zones Fish utilizing brush piles and submerged vegetation as recovery areas between feeding periods Moving between shallow and mid-depth zones (30-40 feet from bank) following shad movements	Dam discharge area with moving, oxygenated water Brush piles and submerged vegetation in transitional zones Points and coves with access to deeper water	Inline Spinners cast near dam discharge and along depth transitions Trolling Shallow (0-9') with natural baitfish patterns Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through brush pile areas	Shad schools in transitional zones Small baitfish utilizing brush pile areas Aquatic insects in dam discharge area	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	78-81	Bass are actively feeding around baitfish schools and vegetation, showing aggressive surface feeding behavior especially during early morning Fish are utilizing multiple depth zones from shallow vegetation (2-4ft) to moderate depths (8-12ft) depending on time of day and baitfish location	Matted grass and lily pad areas in 2-4 feet of water Points in 8-12 feet of water Areas with visible baitfish activity 40-50 feet offshore	Hard Topwater (Popping) Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') Frogs/Toads	Shad - primary forage base with active surface activity Bluegill - secondary forage around vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	65-78	Establishing warm-weather patterns around rocky structures, actively feeding during morning and evening with reduced activity during peak heat Responding strongly to wind-generated currents, positioning on up-wind sides of structure for feeding opportunities Moving between shallow and deep water daily, following baitfish movements and seeking temperature comfort zones	Main lake rock piles and boulder fields in 12-20 foot depth range Wind-blown points with deep water access Shallow rocky flats early and late in the day	Drop Shot with subtle presentations in deeper water during midday Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) during active feeding periods Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning and evening periods Football Jigs worked slowly along rocky structure	Shad schools suspending near structure Crayfish active in rocky areas Small perch around rock piles	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Summer	Crappie	72-85	Crappie are suspending in deeper water near structure during daytime hours, moving to shallower feeding zones during dawn and dusk Schools are holding tight to brush piles and dock structures to escape summer heat, becoming more active during low-light periods	Deep brush piles in 15-25 feet of water adjacent to creek channels Shaded dock areas with good depth Deep vegetation edges where they meet channel swings	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad schools suspending in open water Small bluegill around vegetation edges Young-of-year baitfish around brush piles	Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	68-82	Striped bass are suspending in deeper, cooler water during the day (20-40ft) due to summer stratification, following large schools of shad Fish become more active during lower light periods (dawn/dusk), moving shallower to ambush bait near points and current breaks	Main lake points and drop-offs near bait staging areas (30-40 feet from shore) Current breaks and dam structure areas where bait concentrates Deep water basin areas where stripers suspend with bait schools	Trolling Deep (20'+) with downriggers to target suspended fish in basins Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are spotted on electronics Spoons worked through suspended bait schools Umbrella Rigs during lower light periods near points	Shad schools in open water and along drop-offs Stressed or injured baitfish near current areas Smaller baitfish pushed to surface during feeding periods	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Catfish	72-85	Actively feeding in current breaks and around structure, particularly during dawn and dusk periods Utilizing shallow vegetation zones for feeding, especially when shad are present near matted grass and lily pads Responding to wind-generated current by positioning on wind-blown points and structure edges	Brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range, especially those near current breaks Edges of matted grass and lily pad fields in shallow areas Points and drops with access to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or live bait positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles and vegetation edges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) working shallow cover and vegetation	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports) Sunfish and small panfish in vegetation zones	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Yellow Perch	72-81	Yellow perch seeking cooler water during summer, concentrating in deeper brush piles (6-8 feet) and near vegetation edges during early morning and evening Schooling behavior around structure, with active feeding periods during dawn and dusk to avoid peak heat	Brush piles in 6-8 feet of water, especially those adjacent to weed edges Deep edges of weed beds in 4-6 feet of water Shaded pockets near heavy vegetation during midday	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows near brush piles Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light jigs along weed edges Inline Spinners worked slowly through vegetation gaps	Small shad and minnows Aquatic insects near vegetation Small crayfish around brush piles	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Trout	58-68	Trout seeking thermal refuge in deeper, cooler water during summer heat, primarily active during early morning and late evening Concentrating near dam discharge areas for increased oxygen and cooler water temperatures Opportunistically feeding on shad schools in transitional zones between shallow and deep water	Dam discharge area with moving, oxygenated water Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 30-40 foot transitional zones Deep water areas near points and coves offering thermal refuge	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along temperature breaks and structure edges Inline Spinners near dam discharge and oxygenated areas Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around brush piles and submerged vegetation	Shad schools in transitional zones Small baitfish utilizing brush pile cover Aquatic insects near dam discharge	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Woods Reservoir

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	58-72	Following shad schools into shallow creek arms, with active feeding periods during morning hours and transitioning deeper as the day progresses Actively pursuing baitfish in the water column, using points and vegetation edges as ambush locations	Shallow creek arms where shad are congregating Points and channel swings adjacent to feeding flats Matted grass edges near deeper water access	Hard Topwater (Popping) during morning hours Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) following the bait schools Spinnerbaits worked along grass edges and through baitfish schools	Shad schools migrating into creeks Bluegill around remaining vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	52-65	Actively chasing baitfish schools in the mid-depth ranges, especially during wind-generated current periods Relating heavily to rocky structure and transitional areas as they follow baitfish moving from summer to winter locations	Main lake points with rock-to-sand transitions Rocky flats in 8-15 foot depth range Wind-blown shorelines with boulder structure	Blade Baits worked with a yo-yo retrieve along rocky transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) presented parallel to points Drop Shot rigged with small profile baits for pressured fish Spybaits worked through suspended fish following bait schools	Shad schools moving into creek arms Remaining crayfish in rocky areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Crappie	52-68	Actively schooling and following shad populations as they migrate to deeper water Concentrating around vertical structure and brush piles, using these as ambush points for passing baitfish	Deep brush piles near creek channels and cove mouths Wind-blown points and flats with vertical structure Dock areas with deep water access	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Spider Rigging	Shad schools migrating to deeper water Small sunfish around brush piles	Natural Shad Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Actively chasing shad schools in open water and along depth transitions, with increased feeding activity due to fall turnover and baitfish migrations Utilizing points and current breaks as ambush locations, especially during morning and evening feeding periods	Main lake points and creek mouth intersections where baitfish schools concentrate Drop-offs 30-40 feet from shore where bait stages Current-influenced areas near the dam structure	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with spoons when fish are holding deep on bait schools Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along contour breaks and points Spoons cast and retrieved through suspended bait schools	Shad schools congregating in large numbers Injured or stressed baitfish separated from main schools	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Catfish	58-72	Catfish are actively feeding to build reserves for winter, following shad schools and responding to wind-generated current Fish are transitioning between summer and winter patterns, utilizing both shallow feeding areas and deeper staging points	Points and drop-offs adjacent to deep water, especially those with current breaks Brush piles in 6-8 foot range near channel swings Wind-blown shorelines with current-generated feeding opportunities	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or whole bait positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges and points Carolina Rigs worked slowly through brush piles and along drop-offs	Shad schools transitioning to deeper water Baitfish concentrated around current breaks and points	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Yellow Perch	55-65	Schools of yellow perch begin to congregate in deeper water near the brush piles (6-8 feet) as water temperatures cool, actively feeding to build up energy reserves Feeding activity increases during daylight hours, with fish moving between vegetation edges and brush pile areas	Brush piles in 6-8 feet of water adjacent to vegetation edges Deep pockets near heavy vegetation in 4-6 feet Points with mixed vegetation and structure that provide ambush opportunities	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Inline Spinners Drop Shot	Small minnows congregating near structure Juvenile shad schools Small invertebrates around vegetation	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Trout	52-65	Actively feeding during cooler water periods, concentrating near dam discharge and thermocline areas Following shad schools in transitional zones 30-40 feet from bank Utilizing brush piles and submerged vegetation as ambush points for feeding	Dam discharge area with oxygenated water Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 30-40 foot transition zones Deep water points near shoreline structure	Inline Spinners worked through current seams near dam Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along transitional zones Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) near structure	Shad schools in transitional zones Small baitfish around brush piles Aquatic insects near dam discharge	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	45-52	Fish are actively feeding in surprisingly shallow water (2-4 feet) around brush piles and bank structure, likely taking advantage of warmer pockets and baitfish schools Bass are relating closely to cover and structure, using brush piles and vegetation as ambush points for shad	Shallow brush piles in 2-4 foot depths, especially in protected pockets Points with nearby deep water access, particularly those with vegetation Bank areas with good vegetation 30-40 feet from shore	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow cover Shallow diving crankbaits (0-6') around points and vegetation Blade baits worked around deeper structure	Shad schools in shallow water and around structure Smaller baitfish relating to vegetation edges	Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	48-52	Smallmouth bass are schooling around main lake rock piles and riprap, primarily feeding on shad in response to cooler water temperatures Fish are showing moderate activity levels with feeding windows likely concentrated during warmer parts of the day	Main lake riprap areas with access to deeper water Rock piles adjacent to deeper water Wind-blown rocky points with current	Umbrella Rigs worked slowly through suspended fish Blade Baits worked vertically near structure Drop Shot with finesse presentations for inactive fish	Shad Smaller baitfish suspended near structure	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Crappie are schooling around wind-blown areas near docks and brush piles, using current to ambush prey Fish are grouping in large numbers around vertical structure, showing active feeding behavior in winter	Docks with deep water access, especially those affected by wind-generated current Deep brush piles near points Wind-blown areas with vertical structure	Crappie Dock Shooting Finesse Jigs Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')	Minnows Shad	Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	45-55	Striped bass actively pursuing and corralling shad schools in shallower water, especially during low-light periods Fish utilizing current breaks and points as ambush locations to conserve energy while feeding opportunistically	Shallow flats and bays near deep-water access where bait schools congregate Main lake points and current breaks, especially near the dam structure Drop-offs 30-40 feet from shore where baitfish stage	Umbrella Rigs worked slowly through bait schools Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near points and current breaks Spoons worked vertically through suspended bait balls	Threadfin and Gizzard Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depth ranges Injured or stressed baitfish near current breaks and structure	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Catfish	48-52	Catfish are holding in deeper water zones 30-40 feet from bank, moving into feeding positions near current breaks and points during low-light periods Fish are still actively feeding on shad and minnows despite winter conditions, showing aggressive responses to flash and vibration	Deep water sanctuaries 30-40 feet from bank with access to current breaks Main lake points with deep water access Brush piles in 6-8 foot range near deeper water	Spoons worked with a moderate lift-drop retrieve in deeper water Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure and current breaks Live Bait Rigs positioned near deep water staging areas	Shad schools in deeper water Minnows relating to structure	Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	48-50	Schooling in mid-depth areas around brush piles and vegetation edges, actively feeding during daylight hours when temperatures are optimal Moving between brush piles and deeper vegetation pockets, following baitfish movements	Brush piles in 6-8 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access Deep pockets adjacent to vegetation in 2-4 feet Points and irregular shoreline features with structure	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Inline Spinners Micro Crankbaits	Shad Small minnows Juvenile panfish	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Trout	48-50	Trout are holding in oxygenated areas near the dam and transitional zones between shallow and deeper water Fish are actively feeding on shad schools, particularly during low-light periods	Dam area with moving water and high oxygen content Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 30-40 foot transition zones Deep water areas adjacent to points and coves	Inline Spinners worked slowly through oxygenated areas Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near structure Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along transition zones	Shad schools in transitional zones Small baitfish utilizing brush piles and vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Woods Reservoir

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow flats with submerged vegetation in 2-5 feet of water	Laydowns and woody cover in pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and flats in 6-8 foot depth range	Brush piles near transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Submerged vegetation edges in pre-spawn staging areas	Brush piles adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main lake points near spawning tributaries or coves	Current breaks and eddies near the dam structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Points and channel drops in 15-25 foot range adjacent to spawning flats	Current breaks near brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Transitional areas near vegetation in 6-8 feet of water, especially near brush piles	Protected coves and pockets with emerging vegetation in 2-4 feet of water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Dam area and associated current breaks where oxygenated water creates prime feeding zones	Transitional zones 30-40 feet from bank where brush piles and submerged vegetation provide ambush points
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks with 6-8 foot depths, especially those adjacent to spawning flats	Brush piles in coves at 6-8 foot depths
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky flats and pea-gravel bottom areas in 6-8 ft depth	Rock piles and boulder fields in 3-6 ft of water
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shallow brush piles and submerged vegetation in protected coves	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Current-swept main lake points near spawning tributaries and dam structure	Drop-offs and depth transitions 30-40 feet from shore where baitfish stage
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range near spawning flats	Current breaks and points with deep water access
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Shallow vegetation in 2-4 feet of water, especially areas with matted grass and lily pads	Brush piles in 6-8 feet adjacent to spawning areas serving as staging locations
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Dam area with moving, oxygenated water	Transitional zones 30-40 feet from bank near brush piles and submerged vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Points in 8-10 foot depth range with access to deeper water	Edges of matted grass with open pockets
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields and rock piles in 6-12 foot depth range	Main lake points with scattered rock
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Brush piles in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near spawning flats	Submerged vegetation edges where they intersect with deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Open water/basin areas where bait schools are suspending	Points and current breaks near depth transitions
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Points with access to deep water and current breaks	Brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Weed edges and pockets in 4-8 feet of water near brush piles	Shallow flats with mixed vegetation in 2-4 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Dam discharge area with moving, oxygenated water	Brush piles and submerged vegetation in transitional zones
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Matted grass and lily pad areas in 2-4 feet of water	Points in 8-12 feet of water
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake rock piles and boulder fields in 12-20 foot depth range	Wind-blown points with deep water access
Summer	Crappie	Deep brush piles in 15-25 feet of water adjacent to creek channels	Shaded dock areas with good depth
Summer	Striped Bass	Main lake points and drop-offs near bait staging areas (30-40 feet from shore)	Current breaks and dam structure areas where bait concentrates
Summer	Catfish	Brush piles in 6-8 foot depth range, especially those near current breaks	Edges of matted grass and lily pad fields in shallow areas
Summer	Yellow Perch	Brush piles in 6-8 feet of water, especially those adjacent to weed edges	Deep edges of weed beds in 4-6 feet of water
Summer	Trout	Dam discharge area with moving, oxygenated water	Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 30-40 foot transitional zones
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shallow creek arms where shad are congregating	Points and channel swings adjacent to feeding flats
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with rock-to-sand transitions	Rocky flats in 8-15 foot depth range
Fall	Crappie	Deep brush piles near creek channels and cove mouths	Wind-blown points and flats with vertical structure
Fall	Striped Bass	Main lake points and creek mouth intersections where baitfish schools concentrate	Drop-offs 30-40 feet from shore where bait stages
Fall	Catfish	Points and drop-offs adjacent to deep water, especially those with current breaks	Brush piles in 6-8 foot range near channel swings
Fall	Yellow Perch	Brush piles in 6-8 feet of water adjacent to vegetation edges	Deep pockets near heavy vegetation in 4-6 feet
Fall	Trout	Dam discharge area with oxygenated water	Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 30-40 foot transition zones
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Shallow brush piles in 2-4 foot depths, especially in protected pockets	Points with nearby deep water access, particularly those with vegetation
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake riprap areas with access to deeper water	Rock piles adjacent to deeper water
Winter	Crappie	Docks with deep water access, especially those affected by wind-generated current	Deep brush piles near points
Winter	Striped Bass	Shallow flats and bays near deep-water access where bait schools congregate	Main lake points and current breaks, especially near the dam structure
Winter	Catfish	Deep water sanctuaries 30-40 feet from bank with access to current breaks	Main lake points with deep water access
Winter	Yellow Perch	Brush piles in 6-8 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access	Deep pockets adjacent to vegetation in 2-4 feet
Winter	Trout	Dam area with moving water and high oxygen content	Brush piles and submerged vegetation in 30-40 foot transition zones

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad congregating in shallow water	Crawfish becoming more active in warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Shad schools in transitional areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad	Small invertebrates in vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Threadfin and Gizzard Shad schooling in pre-spawn patterns	Injured or stressed baitfish separating from main schools
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools moving into pre-spawn staging areas	Crawfish becoming more active in warming shallows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows gathering in warming shallows	Shad schools in transition areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Shad schools congregating near structure and dam area	Small baitfish utilizing brush piles and vegetation for cover
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools actively moving in 6-8 foot depths	Minnows gathering around dock areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging in shallow rocky areas	Shad schools in adjacent deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shad (primary forage base confirmed in reports)	Small sunfish and juvenile baitfish in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools congregating near spawning areas and depth transitions	Injured or stressed post-spawn baitfish
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools transitioning to shallow water	Small fish utilizing brush pile cover
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows gathering in spawning areas	Aquatic insects emerging in warming waters
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Shad schools in transitional zones	Small baitfish utilizing brush piles and vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad	Bluegill
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools moving along rocky structure	Crawfish emerging from rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad (primary forage based on lake reports)	Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools in open water	Injured or stressed baitfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools in mid-depth ranges	Smaller fish utilizing brush pile cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows and shad	Newly hatched fry
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Shad schools in transitional zones	Small baitfish utilizing brush pile areas
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad - primary forage base with active surface activity	Bluegill - secondary forage around vegetation
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools suspending near structure	Crayfish active in rocky areas
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending in open water	Small bluegill around vegetation edges
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools in open water and along drop-offs	Stressed or injured baitfish near current areas
Summer	Catfish	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports)	Sunfish and small panfish in vegetation zones
Summer	Yellow Perch	Small shad and minnows	Aquatic insects near vegetation
Summer	Trout	Shad schools in transitional zones	Small baitfish utilizing brush pile cover
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools migrating into creeks	Bluegill around remaining vegetation
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools moving into creek arms	Remaining crayfish in rocky areas
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools migrating to deeper water	Small sunfish around brush piles
Fall	Striped Bass	Shad schools congregating in large numbers	Injured or stressed baitfish separated from main schools
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools transitioning to deeper water	Baitfish concentrated around current breaks and points
Fall	Yellow Perch	Small minnows congregating near structure	Juvenile shad schools
Fall	Trout	Shad schools in transitional zones	Small baitfish around brush piles
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools in shallow water and around structure	Smaller baitfish relating to vegetation edges
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Shad	Smaller baitfish suspended near structure
Winter	Crappie	Minnows	Shad
Winter	Striped Bass	Threadfin and Gizzard Shad schooling in shallow to mid-depth ranges	Injured or stressed baitfish near current breaks and structure
Winter	Catfish	Shad schools in deeper water	Minnows relating to structure
Winter	Yellow Perch	Shad	Small minnows
Winter	Trout	Shad schools in transitional zones	Small baitfish utilizing brush piles and vegetation

Bait Colors by Season for Woods Reservoir

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Green Pumpkin Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Metallic Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Pink Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Trout	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Trout	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors Natural Shad Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Pink Colors Natural Shad Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Green Colors
Summer	Crappie	Light Neutral Colors Pink Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Summer	Catfish	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Yellow Perch	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Crappie	Natural Shad Colors Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Catfish	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Yellow Perch	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Trout	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Crappie	Pink Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Catfish	Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Trout	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors