Lake Rutledge DUD (Hard Labor State Park)

Third time I've been to this lake. 1st two times in my kayak, this time I have my jon boat with me, armed with two trolling motors and two new batteries.

Atleast the 1st two times I caught two tiny bluegill.


Couldn't believe I got skunked today. I saw/heard two big fish rolling on the surface today (sounded like a bass top water attack) but couldn't buy a bite today to save my life.

I started out bass fishing with a texas rigged worm and char/white spinnerbait. Gave that about an hour or so before switching to crappie fishing with jigs. Found some nice laydowns in 10' of water without so much as a sniff....couldn't believe it. Then I even got desperate and hooked some nightcrawlers under a bobber for some bluegills, catfish, WHATEVER.....and wouldn't you know the bobber never once even hinted at going under.

Anyone familiar with this lake? It looks promising with good cover around the shorelines and plenty of snags underwater in the 6-10' range coming out from shore....but wow.

I never claimed to be an expert fisherman but back in Va I could atleast catch a bluegill lol

Might have to start looking at Varner.

hmmm...no feedback huh?

I'm switching to Varner....gonna hit it tomorrow morning.