Every year as we transition into August and September, the search begins for the fall bite; as the bass move under the grass and off the deep ledges! The fact is that not all the bass move under the grass and there is still a big nucleus of fish that stay on the deep ledges and act like we are in the mid of summer. There is one slight difference though; the bigger fish are not all active when they are on the deep ledges as they suspend a lot. 

Suspending fish are harder to catch and to motivate to bite, and this is generally the time of year where the bait fish is abundant all over the lake adding more misery to catching summer time fish. What this adds up too is we are in a tough time of year and you must have great patience and resolve to catch those big sacks of fish. There is no secret lure or presentation that catches fish; you must work by keeping your bait in the water and keep dropping it on their heads until you get a bite. 

It is also a time when you must connect when you get your chances, as missing is not an option if you want to have a successful outing. The mental part of the sport becomes compelling and missing is not an option because your next opportunity might be an hour or more away. Staying focused when bites are slow, or the 90 plus degree heat and hot sun beating on your head makes it hard to stay focused. You must however overcome these obstacles and if you do the rewards of those big sacks of fish are the reward. 

What summer time fishing adds up to is you test your patience, endurance and resolve; and if you can overcome and prevail in the summer time conditions you can win tournaments and have some great days on the lake.

To fish with Captain Mike Gerry on Lake Guntersville visit: Fish Lake Guntersville Guide Service