This picture is from one of my favorite fishing holes in Portage Lakes. The water is always crystal clear and chock full of weeds and fish. Ohio has many clear water lakes like this. Often, they are gin clear with visibility deeper than six feet. I happen to enjoy clear water fishing, but it certainly does present its own set of challenges. Here are the top three adjustments I make to my tackle when met with a crystal clear lake.
Downsizing
When I know I am going to be fishing a clear water lake, I automatically will tie a smaller version of a lure I usually throw on a different rod. Similar color, similar style, just smaller. For instance, a 3/8 oz. spinner bait vs. a 1/2 oz. spinner bait, or a 4″ worm vs. a 5″ or 7″ one. If my “normal” size won’t make them bite, I use the same technique with the smaller size lure. A smaller profile is less opportunity for the fish to get a good look at it and will draw a reaction strike often when a larger lure spooks them.
Color Selection
Subtlety is key for fishing clear water. Depending on what I am fishing with, I try to match the environment in the lake. If I am fishing weed edges or vegetation, I will often choose variations of colors like green pumpkin & watermelon that sort of blend in. I like red flake for a little flash and visibility. I will mostly avoid brighter colors like chartreuse, although solid white is always a go-to color.
If I am fishing hard baits, I will try to match the color and size of the bait fish in the lake. Crawfish is a favorite in the Spring for my crankbaits. In contrast, I use baby bass or sexy shad much of the Summer and into Fall. Its clear water – you’ll be easily able to see what the bass are eating! Try a non-rattling bait in a similar color scheme for shy or finicky fish.
The Long and Winding Cast
If you can see the fish, they can see you, too! Clear water fishing is a bit like a game of Hide & Seek to me. I try to stay as subtle and out of sight as possible. Moving farther away from your target and making longer casts is a quick change you can make. Try this especially if you have fish chasing to the boat, then turn away when they see you. They are obviously interested – they just freaked out when they saw you or your boat. A few words of advice – set the hook HARD! Reeling that fish in from a farther distance gives him more opportunity to get off.
Clear water fishing really is fascinating! Its the greatest opportunity to see fish in their natural habitat. Where they hang out, what they are eating, what is in the lake with them, etc. You may have to slow down to accommodate for the finicky bite, but you will learn a lot about the bass. Clear water fishing is finesse at its best. You will appreciate the forgiveness of stained or dirty water a bit more as well. Overall, I think Ohio’s clear water lakes has made me a more versatile angler… and a more patient person!