Thread: Windy conditions?

If it's real bad just go with the wind, don't try to fight it. Line up on features and just make a drift. I use up to two drift socks and switch to horse heads with curly tails. (Usually southern pro hot grubs).

The easiest way to deal with significant wind is just to long line troll one pole.

I have been playing in the wind a lot to test a new trolling rig I just got a patent on. I have a large map and I get some wind info from http://www.windalert.com/spot/92452 and find a bay with a ramp that is sheltered somewhat from the major wind direction. If spider rigging I fish with less poles and more baits in the water and break out my 48" drift sock. 2 poling I use my shorter rods with heavier line to keep from getting wind knots. Like Brad said go with the wind and use it to your advantage. Some of the best fishing I ever had was in some bad wind with one big black crappie on every cast. Had 2 anchors out and still using the trolling motor. Break it down into small steps and stay off the main lake. Lots of boats sunk on Ky. Lake the last few years. Please wear your life jacket in those big waves. A lot can happen real quick. I lost my Dad in '94 below Barkley Dam with a lot of current and he was NOT wearing his life jacket! Be safe and have fun!!!

I've also had my best day in high wind. When the water temp is not that cool and not after a cold front I'll get in shallow water goin with the wind and throw out the drift socks. My boat sits high so I catch a lot of wind so I turn my trolling motor up to keep me straight and where I want to go. I don't know if the wind is pushing the bait fish or what but the crappie can go crazy. I also catch the much larger fish and I think because there not as spooked because of the winds and waves. I've did very well catching them just under the waters surface. Just beware of where your at and if you can get back safely. I'm sure not goin into the main lake channel in wild winds. Good luck.

At moors right now. The wind is bad. 15-20 mph. Got a couple nothing worth bragging about. Getting back to ramp is a beast. 2-4 footers on main lake. Longlining john deere sliders.8- 10 ft in 13ft of wAter. They are scatteted in big bear creek.