New to Smith Mountain

[reelman]

Hello folks I'm Donnie I live in the Walkertown, NC area I am new to striper fishing on SM just started this year I have been out with a guide a couple times. Now I am trying to learn my way around in the B10 and up area. I live bait fish really had a hard time finding bait in the fall. Last couple times out we jigged, had a little success. Got to figure out where to find bait this spring, any help would be appreciated.

[BentRod]

Welcome! I only fish over on Blackwater on rare occasions and I usually take bait, but I have caught shad in Gills creek before and on up the lake near b49 in a cove. Also Standiford would be a good place to check.

Jigging should get better n better heading into January.

[Shadslinger]

Gills, Standiford, the creek at magnum, poplar creek and some various coves up the lake usually always have shad in them in the spring and fall. I put in at Magnum (now Blackwater marina) exclusively unless fishing down at the dam. I put in at magnum and hit the lights and get ales and a few shad then move back into the creek behind magnum and get the rest of my gizzards. As far as winter jigging... I personally have not seen the monster schools of stripers that blackout your screen and tons of bird activity on the blackwater side like they run across on the roanoke side. The fish are there to jig on though just not as much bird activity to chase from what I have seen. Not saying it does not happen though just not when Ive been out. Seems the birds on blackwater just fly in circles searching or sit on their buttocks.

[reelman]

Thanks for the info guys I've got to learn these different creeks I have fished gills creek some got to get the map out and learn where these others are. Thank a bunch!!!

[Shadslinger]

B25 is standiford, B37 is Magnum, B40 is Poplar, and the B48 cove usually holds some bait.

Hope this helps you out....

www.smith-mountain-lake-visitor-center.com/maps/map_smith_mountain_lake.jpg

[Deleted]

Welcome aboard!!!!

[reelman]

Thanks Shadslinger that helps a lot!!