Fishing
Rathbun Lake , spanning 11,000 acres , is home to a diverse range of fish species , with crappie being one of the most populous . Spring marks a peak in fishing activity as crappie migrate towards the shore for spawning , typically seeking refuge amidst submerged brush and rocks . Anglers often find success by presenting minnows among the brush or utilizing jigs adorned with white or chartreuse twister grubs .
As summer arrives , crappie behavior shifts . They move offshore and suspend , necessitating adjustments in fishing techniques . These fish are commonly found in deeper bays , alongside main lake structures , and close to drop-offs . Successful fishing largely hinges on factors such as wind conditions , water depth , and clarity . Key spots include the dam face , as well as points and bays of Honey and Buck Creek , along with timber-rich areas like Crappie Cove and Bridgeview .
The summer months also bring prime conditions for walleye fishing , typically from the first part of June until the end of July . Anglers often employ trolling methods using artificial lures such as bomber baits or crankbaits , whether deep or shallow runners . Effective lure colors often mimic the appearance of crappie , crawdads , or feature shades of chartreuse , orange , or red . Additionally ,
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Rathbun Lake 2024 drifting worm harnesses or bouncing jigs or spoons over bottom structures can yield favorable results , particularly in areas like the lower lake region .
White bass , another sought-after species , can be targeted using a variety of spoons , jigs , or plugs . Popular fishing locations for white bass include Island View , Honey Creek , the face of the dam , and the connecting channel known as " the cut ."
Channel catfish angling becomes increasingly productive from the end of June through September , with a plethora of bait options including nightcrawlers , cut-bait , chicken liver , and stink baits . While these whiskered wonders can be caught throughout the lake , bays are often considered prime locations , especially during the nighttime hours .
Largemouth bass , a staple catch for many anglers , can be found throughout the lake , associating themselves with various types of cover . In the two major forks of the reservoir , bass are often linked with old stream channels and vast stands of standing timber , while those in the main lake are more inclined towards rocky points , drop-offs , old river channels , and coves . The timing and location of bass fishing at Rathbun Lake can vary depending on factors such as water quality , lake level , and