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Pre-Spawn Fishing Secrets: How to Land Big Bass on Guntersville Lake

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Pre-spawn Bass fishing on lake Guntersvile as a man tweaks his fishng lures

Pre-Spawn Fishing Secrets: How to Land Big Bass on Guntersville Lake

The pre-spawn season at Lake Guntersville is one of the most exciting times for bass anglers. As water temperatures rise to 50–60°F, bass begin moving from their deep winter haunts toward shallow spawning areas, feeding aggressively along the way. This period offers incredible opportunities to catch trophy-sized bass with the right techniques, lures, and locations.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this guide will help you take full advantage of the pre-spawn season at Guntersville Lake.

What Is Pre-Spawn Fishing on Guntersville Lake?

The pre-spawn period typically starts in late February and runs through early April as bass prepare to spawn. During this time:

  • Bass transition from deeper winter locations to shallow areas near spawning grounds.
  • They stage along creek channels, drop-offs, and grassy flats where food is abundant.

Understanding their movement and behavior is key to locating and catching them.

Why Is Pre-Spawn the Best Time to Catch Big Bass?

Pre-spawn is prime time for anglers looking to land a trophy bass. Here’s why:

  • Aggressive Feeding: Female bass need to build energy reserves for spawning, so they feed heavily on shad, crawfish, and other prey.
  • Predictable Patterns: As bass move toward spawning flats, they hold in specific staging areas, making them easier to locate.
  • Larger Fish Available: Trophy-sized females dominate feeding areas during pre-spawn, giving you a chance to land the fish of a lifetime.

Proven Pre-Spawn Techniques for Big Bass

Using the right techniques can make all the difference during pre-spawn. Here are some of the best methods for targeting bass on Lake Guntersville:

  1. Jerkbaits
    • Perfect for targeting suspended bass in staging areas.
    • Pro Tip: Use slow, erratic retrieves to mimic injured baitfish.
  2. Lipless Crankbaits
    • Ideal for covering water quickly and triggering reaction bites.
    • Pro Tip: Crawfish-colored crankbaits are particularly effective in spring.
  3. Chatterbaits
    • Best for murky water or grassy areas where bass are holding.
    • Pro Tip: Pair your chatterbait with a swimbait trailer to enhance its action.
  4. Swimbaits and Jigs
    • Great for a slower presentation near structure or grass beds.
    • Pro Tip: Focus on drop-offs and edges of grass lines where bass are staging.

Key Areas to Target on Lake Guntersville

Knowing where to fish is just as important as how you fish. During pre-spawn, focus on these hotspots:

  • Grass Beds: Bass transition from deeper grass beds to shallow flats as water temperatures rise.
  • Creek Channels and Ledges: These areas act as highways for bass moving toward spawning grounds.
  • Rock Piles: Rocks warm faster than other structures, attracting baitfish and active bass.

With its abundant grass and structure, Lake Guntersville offers endless opportunities to locate staging fish.

Gear You Need to Succeed

Having the right equipment is essential for pre-spawn fishing success:

  • Rods: A medium-heavy rod for crankbaits and chatterbaits.
  • Line: Use fluorocarbon for sensitivity and abrasion resistance.
  • Electronics: High-quality fish finders can help you locate staging areas and schools of baitfish.

For beginners or anglers looking to refine their techniques, hiring a professional guide can provide the edge needed to maximize your trip.

FAQs

Q: What’s the best lure for pre-spawn bass fishing on Guntersville Lake?

A: Jerkbaits and lipless crankbaits are top choices for active, staging bass.

Q: When does pre-spawn fishing start on Lake Guntersville?

A: Pre-spawn typically begins in late February and peaks in March when water temperatures hit 50–60°F.

Q: Where are the best pre-spawn fishing spots?

A: Focus on grass beds, creek mouths, and rock piles near shallow spawning flats.

Book a Pre-Spawn Trip Now

Guntersville Bass Guides pre-spawn bass on lake guntersville
GUNTERSVILLE BASS GUIDES with pre-spawn bass on lake guntersville

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🌟 2024 Year in Review: A Record-Breaking Year on Lake Guntersville! 🌟

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As 2024 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible year we’ve had at Lake Guntersville Bass Fishing Guides. From record-breaking catches to unforgettable trips, here’s a look back at the highlights of 2024:

🎣 Epic Catches of 2024

This year, we witnessed some of the biggest and best catches in Lake Guntersville’s history! From personal best to families reeling in their first fish, it was a year full of special moments.

🚤 A Growing Community of Anglers

We’ve welcomed new clients, seasoned anglers, and families looking to make lifelong memories on the water. Whether it was a first fishing trip or a return adventure, it was an honor to share the beauty and thrill of Lake Guntersville with you all.

🏆 Achievements and Wins

Our guides continued to make waves, helping anglers land fish of all sizes and even helping some take home tournament wins! From local competitions to regional events, our knowledge of Guntersville Lake was a key factor in these triumphs.

📸 Some Of The Best Fishing Moments

Guntersville bass fishing guides
2024 Dave came back for round two on lake guntersville
Guntersville Bass Fishing Guides

Thank you to everyone who shared the boat with us this year! Whether it was a group shot celebrating a big catch or a solo angler posing with their trophy fish, we loved seeing your memories come to life. You can view the rest of 2024 Gallery

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we move into 2025, we’re preparing for another exciting year of fishing, new techniques, and new experiences. Look out for special packages, events, and more opportunities to fish with the best guides on Lake Guntersville.

We want to extend a big thank you to all of our clients for trusting us with your fishing trips. We can’t wait to see you on the water again soon!

🎣 Happy Holidays and Tight Lines from Lake Guntersville Bass Guides! 🎣

The Quest for a Double-Digit Bass: Mike’s Trophy Journey

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When Mike Harvey first called me, he had one thing on his mind—a trophy bass. He wasn’t interested in the numbers or the smaller catches; he wanted to land a true giant. Mike had already tried his luck at Lake Fork and was now setting his sights on Lake Guntersville.

We booked a three-day trip, and on the second day, he hooked into something big. Unfortunately, it got off before we could see it, but from the fight, I could tell it was a giant—maybe even a double-digit bass.

The following year, Mike came back for another shot. Once again, he hooked into another big one, but it managed to get away. Determined, he started asking about the best times of the year to fish for a trophy. I told him, “Try November or December. That’s when the big ones start feeding up.” From then on, Mike made trips in both March and November.

He started catching fish consistently in the 5–7 pound range, which is nothing to sneeze at, but it wasn’t enough for him. He was after something bigger. As for me, I was thrilled—I love catching fish that size—but we both knew the ultimate goal was a double-digit bass.

Heck, in November 2017, FLW changed the dates of the BFL Wild Card tournament, and it interfered with one of Mike’s scheduled trips. I called him to let him know what had happened, and he was understandably bummed. But then I had an idea: “Let’s fish Guntersville for a day, then drive to Kentucky Lake, and you can help me practice for the Wild Card.” Mike was all in.

During practice, Mike’s first fish was a 5-pound largemouth! It was an awesome moment, and having him there made the trip even better. That Wild Card tournament ended up being one for the books with drastic weather changes and rising water. I don’t even remember how many inches of rain came down, but it was a lot. The water came up quick, and the fish I’d found in practice vanished. But having Mike there during practice made the whole experience memorable.

Fast forward to March 2018. Our first morning out was cold, with a stiff northwest wind blowing 20 mph. Honestly, I considered offering to grab breakfast just to warm up before heading back out. But something told me to give it another hour.

Within the first 30 minutes, Mike landed a 4-pounder and a 6.5-pounder. I got us back on the spot (this was before we had the fancy trolling motors of today), and then it happened—Mike hooked into something big.

He said, “I think it’s a big one,” and from the bend in his rod, I knew he wasn’t exaggerating. The fish fought hard, pulling drag, trying to bury itself in the power poles. For a moment, we weren’t even sure if it was a bass or some kind of trash fish. Then we caught a glimpse of her, and my heart started racing—it was definitely a bass, and a big one at that.

The pressure was on. With the net in hand, I couldn’t afford to mess this up. If I missed, it would’ve been my fault if she got away. Luckily, I’ve always been a good net man, and when she came up, I scooped her in.

As soon as I saw her in the net, I knew she was a double-digit, but I wasn’t prepared for just how heavy she was. Her stats? She measured 24.5 inches long with a girth of 19 inches. This fish was nearly as big around as she was long—a true freak of nature.

When we weighed her, the scale read 11-0 pounds. That moment was incredible—a task that isn’t easily accomplished, and one that Mike and I had worked hard to achieve. (Check out the 2018 report for more details about his lunker.)

Since then, Mike has returned every year—except the last two. Life’s been busy with a new job, but he still talks about making his way back to Guntersville. In his last few trips, he brought a friend along, and they caught some great fish together.

Now we’re just waiting for Mike “ Magnet”to find his way back so we can catch up, share some laughs, and—hopefully—hook into another legendary bass.

GUNTERSVILLE BASS GUIDES
Mike Harveys 11-0 Lake Guntersville Donkey

~Capt.Jim

Big Bass Bonanza: Guntersville’s Fishing Hot Spot

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Guntersville is known for its big bass fishing, and this season is no exception. With prime spots and strategies for catching trophy fish, it’s the ultimate fishing hot spot.

Guntersville has been hot—there’s no other way to put it. Big fish are biting just about every day, and if you saw the results from our Black Friday tournament, you know there were some impressive weights.

A lot of the bigger bags came from using forward-facing sonar, but there were still plenty of anglers pulling over 20 pounds without it.

On the guiding side, while our numbers have slowed a little, the quality is still there—maybe even better than usual for this time of year. The grass remains green and thick, especially in deeper areas, though you might notice some dying off in the shallows.

Our trips have been starting strong, with plenty of bites and solid catches early. Things slow down a bit mid-morning, then pick up again as the day goes on. That said, the recent cold front has definitely put a dent in the bite. We’ve gone from catching 40–50 fish in just a couple of hours to landing a handful—but the upside is they’re bigger on average.

Water temps have dropped below 60°F, and the clarity is excellent—you can see up to 5 feet down in some spots.

On the crappie side

The Crappie bite is heating up. Our two crappie guides report that if you can handle the cold, you’ll have a great time. They’ve found a few areas where the crappie are stacked, and the bite has been consistent, especially early. If you’re interested in a crappie trip, we’ve got you covered—just follow the link! CRAPPIE FISHING CLICK HERE

A Thanksgiving Morning Side Story

After eight years, Cooper and I got back in the boat together. He first fished with me when he was just a little guy, and even then, he caught some big ones. From what he’s told me, that trip got him hooked on fishing.

This Thanksgiving, he was back in town, and since I had Thanksgiving morning open, we decided to hit the water. We braved a brisk 20+ mph wind out of the north-northwest, and just like last time, the big ones came out for him.

We only fished for about three hours before heading in for a quick snack and then off to the Thanksgiving feast, but it was great to catch up. Cooper’s doing awesome—he’s working for Skeeter Boats, fishing the Great Lakes of Texas, and making a name for himself.

One thing I noticed? He’s come a long way in learning how to hold a fish! If you compare pictures from his first trip to now, you can tell he’s a pro at showing them off. Let’s give him a pat on the back for that.

#cooper2024
#cooper2016

Capt. Jim

www.guntersvillebassguides.com

10 Years Strong: Two Great Friends and Fishing Legends

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Let me introduce two incredible fishermen, Johnny Welch and Boyd Haynes. Back on October 25, 2014, they won the only free frog fishing trip I’ve ever offered—and as you can see from this picture, they’ve been reeling in the bass ever since! Over the years, these two have returned multiple times a year, every year, and let’s be honest—they’re hooked!

The thrill and excitement of fishing here, especially for bass, have turned them into true fishing fanatics. We’ve had days that feel almost unreal. Take, for instance, the time a stunning 10 1/2-pounder was caught while they were with me—it was a showstopper that left us all in sheer disbelief. Or the unforgettable day when we lost count in the 80s—seriously, how wild is that? The smallest bass was 3 pounds, and the largest was an impressive 6.

Just last year, Boyd hit a milestone, landing his personal best—a 7.23-pounder. Each trip with these guys is a treasure trove of memories, packed with laughter, stories, and time spent prepping for tournaments or flinging frogs onto a cheese mat.

So, when I say that bass are getting caught when these guys roll into town, you better believe it. Their passion for fishing elevates every trip and makes each adventure unforgettable.

Here’s a shoutout to Johnny and Boyd—not just for being loyal clients but for becoming true friends over the years. Your camaraderie has made every outing something special, and I can’t wait for more legendary days on the water with you both!

#OCT 25th 2014

~Capt.Jim

Lake Guntersville Fall Fishing Report

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Guntersville has been fishing really well lately, especially for bass. Anglers are having a blast, enjoying great numbers and impressive quality catches. The excitement on the water creates a lively atmosphere that keeps everyone eager to cast their lines.

As we look ahead, there’s a lot of anticipation for the early winter bite. This period is often marked by shifts in fish behavior, which can lead to some fantastic fishing opportunities. On top of that, the crappie bite is consistently picking up daily, and we are currently booking crappie trips now to take advantage of this increased activity. There’s nothing quite like targeting crappie, especially when they’re actively feeding.

The water temperatures are in the mid-60s, setting the stage for both bass and crappie to be more active. These ideal conditions signal that now is a great time to get out on the water. Whether you’re targeting bass or crappie, Guntersville remains a prime destination for anglers looking to enjoy rewarding fishing experiences. With each passing day, the chances of landing some great fish only seem to increase, making it a perfect time for fishing enthusiasts to head out.

Over the past few months, we’ve seen an impressive trend with our clients catching between 20 to 40 bass on each trip. This level of success has been truly exciting for everyone involved. The early fall topwater bite has been particularly exhilarating, providing not only great numbers but also some impressive size in the bass.

Anglers have enjoyed the thrill of watching these fish strike at the surface, often leading to unforgettable experiences. The adrenaline rush from a powerful hookup and the subsequent battle has made each outing a memorable one. It’s been rewarding to witness both novice and experienced fishermen enjoying themselves and honing their skills during these fishing excursions.

As the season progresses, we anticipate that the conditions will remain favorable, further enhancing our clients’ chances of landing those big catches. It’s definitely an exciting time to be out on the water, and we look forward to more successful trips ahead!

Take advantage of our crappie special! We’re excited to offer an exclusive deal for our valued customers. The first 20 people to book the special crappie trip will enjoy a fantastic discount of $100 off the regular price. This limited-time offer provides a great opportunity for fishing enthusiasts to experience an unforgettable day on the water, targeting one of the most sought-after freshwater fish. Don’t miss out on this chance to save money while enjoying a thrilling crappie fishing adventure. Grab your friends and family, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Act fast, as spots are filling up quickly!

CRAPPIE SPECIAL
Introducing Crappie Fishing To Miss.Lively
She Picked It Up Like A Natural


Here’s Some Videos We Did On Social Media




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BASS FISHING REPORT END OF JULY 2024

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Guntersville has been fishing strong for numbers, with some days proving better than others. Up until recently, there hasn’t been any current, which has posed some challenges. Some days have been particularly tough, as the bass have been nomadic, making it difficult to predict their movements. Anglers have had to adapt to these changing conditions, trying different techniques and locations to find success. Despite these obstacles, there have been moments of great success, with impressive catches. The lack of consistent current has added a layer of complexity, but persistent and adaptable fishermen have still managed to reel in some good numbers.

We’ve fished from 1 foot out to 20 feet deep, catching bass all over within that range. It has been quite an experience utilizing various techniques and equipment to lure these fish. A substantial number of soft plastics have proven to be effective in catching these bass, showcasing their versatility in different depths and environments.

In addition to soft plastics, there have been a few days where moving baits were the key to success. The thrill of seeing a bass strike at a moving bait is unparalleled, and it has undoubtedly added an element of excitement to our fishing trips. The action is relentless and keeps us coming back for more.

Overall, the diversity in techniques and the adaptability required to effectively fish across different see depths make every trip a unique and rewarding challenge. Our adventures on the water have been filled with memorable catches and exhilarating moments, solidifying our passion for bass fishing.

Water temps have been hanging in the mid 80s to low 90s and the water is clear 4-6 feet of visibility.

For the month of August we have a Gift Certificate Promo: BUY 1 GET 1 ( 4 hour certificate for 1/2 off )

GIFT CERTIFICATE

Well we won’t be doing any pirate hunting with paintball guns even though it sounds like a great time and it would help reduce spot stealers / hole buzzards. Be sure to take advantage of our August special .

Tip: Keep a 4×4 Jig Tied On

BOOKING

Lake Guntersville June 29th Fishing Report

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June has been a good time on Guntersville. We went from spring-type weather to summer in a day. As a client humorously stated, “You guys don’t have the ozone down here!” Indeed, it feels like we’ve jumped straight into the heat of summer. Our water temperature has been getting up to summer levels, currently hanging around a warm 87-90 degrees. This rise in temperature has had a noticeable impact on the local bass population.

Interestingly, the bass have picked up a new habit—they’ve been nomadic lately. It’s a classic “here today, gone tomorrow” scenario, making fishing an ever-changing and exciting challenge. One day, you might find a hotspot teeming with activity, and the next, the same spot could seem completely devoid of life. However, the thrill of the hunt keeps us going, and when you do manage to relocate these wandering bass, they bite pretty well, rewarding the persistence and patience of the angler.

This period of change has made us more attuned to the subtle shifts in the environment. Being on the water during these warm months allows us to observe the intricate dance of nature, from the smallest ripple on the surface to the sudden splash of a jumping fish. Each outing is a unique adventure, offering new opportunities to learn and adapt. Whether it’s adjusting to the bass’s erratic behavior or finding new patterns in their movement, the dynamic conditions of Guntersville in June have provided unforgettable experiences and stories to share.

What The Fish Are Biting

Most days, the fish will eat soft plastics. However, on days when they are aggressive, we’ve been able to get them to eat crankbaits pretty well. We’ve also had some days where using topwater lures was a blast. It’s fascinating to observe these behaviors, as it can vary greatly from one day to the next.

On those aggressive days, not only do crankbaits become highly effective, but they also seem to create an exciting fishing experience. The reaction strikes are often more intense, making it a thrilling time for anglers. Meanwhile, topwater action provides a different kind of excitement. When fish hit the lure on the surface, it can be both visually spectacular and exhilarating. These varied feeding patterns and responses to different types of lures demonstrate the diverse and dynamic nature of fishing.

🇺🇸Summer Special🇺🇸

This special offer is designed to help you and your loved ones spend a great time on the lake without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a fishing trip with friends, this deal has got you covered.

SUMMER SPECIAL

Capt Jim

www.guntersvillebassguides.com

GUNTERSVILLE JUNE 5th 2024

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Summer Fishing Update

Summer time is here according to the calendar, but the weather hasn’t caught up yet. The bass have been biting well for the most part. Water temperatures are below what they normally are for this time of year; we are seeing temperatures between 77-80 degrees.

The interesting part about now is we have to be willing to switch up what we are doing till we find the fish that want to bite. It can be areas or lures and most of the time both; the pressure has the bass educated.

Adapting to changing conditions is crucial for a successful fishing experience. Sometimes, it means moving to a different spot on the lake, where the fish might be more active. At other times, it involves experimenting with various lures, switching between colors, types, and retrieval techniques to entice the bass.

Moreover, understanding the behavior of bass in response to pressure from other anglers is essential. This often means refining your strategy, using more subtle or natural presentations to outsmart the well-educated bass. Patience, flexibility, and a keen eye on the water conditions play a significant role in turning a challenging day into a rewarding one.

BRANDON-NOMICS

🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 We know that things are a little more expensive than they were 2-3 years ago, and we get that. The current economic situation has impacted us all, making it harder to enjoy some of the simple pleasures in life. But we can’t let Brandon-Nomics stop y’all from enjoying a fantastic day on Lake Guntersville. That’s why we have put together the BRANDON-NOMICS SUMMER SPECIAL! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

This special offer is designed to help you and your loved ones spend a great time on the lake without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a fishing trip with friends, or just want to relax by the water, this deal has got you covered.

All the info can be found by clicking the button below. You won’t want to miss out on this incredible opportunity to make unforgettable memories at a fraction of the cost. So grab your sunglasses and come fish with us On Lake Guntersville

Remember, this special is for a limited time only, so act fast and enjoy the savings while they last. We are here to ensure you have the best summer ever despite the higher costs we all have to navigate these days. Together, we can beat the economic blues and have some fun in the sun!

SUMMER SPECIALS

Here’s Some Pics

For More info about our services you can contact us by clicking button below.

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GUNTERSVILLE FISHING NOW IS HARD TO BEAT

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Fishing on Guntersville is exceptionally good right now, with both high numbers and decent sizes of fish being caught, averaging about 50 a day. This has certainly made for fun days on the water. Although the weather has been atypical for mid-May, it’s clear that the fish are loving it.

The water temp has been fluctuating between 74-79 degrees. Clarity is still mixed.

Most of the fish are post-spawn, yet we continue to see some pre-spawn behavior and schooling action. The next couple of months look promising for fishing activities.

Here are some pics from the last 2 trips.

Celebrate the special graduates and dads in your life with our exclusive promotion! When you purchase two gift certificates, you’ll receive an additional 4-hour gift certificate absolutely free. Alternatively, if you need just one, enjoy a savings of $100 off any single gift certificate. Don’t miss this opportunity to give the gift of fishing while enjoying great savings!

BUY 2 GET 1
$100 OFF

For Booking CLICK HERE

Capt Jim

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