Buggs Island Fishing Report – March 2014 by Jason Houchins

March Fishing Report Buggs

Winter is finally starting to loosen its grip on south side Virginia and if you’re looking to catch a few bass with the chance at a big one, now’s the time to hit Buggs Island Lake.  The snow and rain of two weeks ago had the water rising and really dirty as far down as Eastland Creek.  I don’t think I have seen the water that dirty way back in all the creeks this time of the year. This had slowed the fishing down and made it somewhat difficult for the last couple of weeks. Weights were lower than normal in the annual Buggs Island Early Bird Tournament out of Occoneechee Park on February 23. The Top team weighed 5 bass for 13 lbs taking the win and a 5.20 lber took big fish for the event. But now with the water levels getting back down to normal this week and some warmer days here and there, expect action to get really consistent for the early part of March.Right now most of the lake is seeing water temperatures in the mid-40s give or take a few degrees depending on what part of the lake you are fishing. The stain is starting to settle and this will open up your tackle options while the water temps hold in the 40s. From now through the first half of the month look for fish to really relate to chuck rock, rip rap, or pee gravel banks close to deeper water.  Fish will be caught on a variety of medium running crankbaits, rattle baits, and jerkbaits.  It’s hard to beat a simple shad rap #7 early during this month in a shad or crawfish pattern. If you find yourself in some stained water, chunk the rattle bait around for a while and don’t be afraid to throw a spinnerbait as well. If you want to slow down a little bit, pick the area apart with a jig/chuck combo in and around the chunk rock.During the middle to end of March look for water temperatures to rise and stay consistently in the mid-50s to near 60 degrees. Start by thinking about the pre spawn period and how the fish should feed up.  Bass should be setting up near spawning areas feeding on shad and other bait fish. This is a great time to start throwing a spinnerbait and a fluke around shallow cover and follow that up by pitching creature baits. When the water starts getting closer to that 60 degree mark, break out the square bill crankbaits and chatterbaits, these can really produce late in the month.March is a great month to fish on Buggs Island lake with fish moving toward the shallows throughout the month. It’s also a great time to possibly catch some of the largest bass this lake offers. Remember to keep in mind the water levels and warming trends to help plan your trip. If you need to know the latest call and talk to Robert at Twin Lakes outfitters in South Hill, VA. He can point you in the right direction and offer most of the tackle you will need. Enjoy this month, it is one of my favorite times to fish Buggs Island Lake and it could become one of your favorite months to.

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