Looking forward...

[OnTheRocks]

Last year in mid May and all through June the fishing was REALLY tough. July hit and I put a spread of down rods out, and all hell broke loose. Though not every day was like this, but from the first of July through end of August (not trying to jinx myself) I don't remember having at least one or two fish in the boat off of down rods. Sometimes without even marking any fish. Those were probably a few that got loose from gators stringer. I only used jumbo minnows from CQ last year but have since bought an 8' 3/8 for ales and 10'1/2" for my bigger baits and practiced with both, and been able to net my own for about 5 months now. So any predictions for the late May into June bit this year.

[johnr]

Late may and June have been by favorite times to striper fish. We used to put as many people on my boat as was comfortable and load the boat with fish. Lots of upper double digit days in May and a couple triple digit days in June. Most wouldn't believe it, but it's easy to do when they are bunched up and chowing down after the fake spawn.

I wouldn't condone that type of fishing now though. I was out for blood then. Real mad at em..

[johnr]

As for predictions, I predict that the fish will be hungry in late may and june. And they will be bunched up. And I'll be waiting for them in the usual places. With A LOT of bait.

[Deleted]

 

   I agree with johnr...  June fishing is awesome. I assume you are fishing the Roanoke side since you were buying minnows from CQ.  The numbers will be on the lower end of the lake thru May... by around June 6th-10th a number of  fish have moved back above the bridge.... with a lot still in between.....  add planners to your spread with long lines.... the fish are still not deep.


  Disclaimer:  before someone says " I caught 4 above the bridge Saturday".... I am talking numbers..... 

[OnTheRocks]

I've fished all over, Roanoke to around Mormans, and the blackwater side as well in gills and bull. Probably me and a lot of learning contributed to it.