Cooling water pushes Chickamauga bass into creeks and grass

What anglers are reporting The last solid report was mid-June, when summer ledge fishing was in full swing. With no fresh updates from the ramp, expect a classic mid-fall bite right now as cooling water pushes fish shallow.

This week's outlook Air temperatures are dropping significantly this week. We have had highs in the 70s, but a front pushes through Thursday with rain and a 10-degree temperature drop. Water temperatures should be falling from the low 60s into the upper 50s. This cooling trend will accelerate the shad migration into the creeks and remaining hydrilla and milfoil beds. Bass should follow the bait closely.

Where to start Look for bait schools pushing into creek channels and sloughs. Target the edges of grass lines, secondary points, and shallow flats where shad are present. If the TVA is pulling current, focus on the mouths of creeks and river drops where bass can ambush bait moving with the flow. Stump flats in the upper river section are also worth checking as the water cools.

Bait box

• White and chartreuse spinnerbait
• Squarebill crankbait in shad patterns
• Topwater walking bait for early mornings
• Bladed jig in green pumpkin
• Lipless crankbait to rip through grass

This weekend The front clears out by Friday, leaving highs in the 50s and lows dipping into the 30s with a northwest wind. Expect bluebird skies and a tighter bite. Bass will likely tuck into remaining green grass or hold tight to stumps and laydowns. Slow down your presentation. A jig pitched to wood cover or a slow-rolled spinnerbait through the grass should be your best bet to trigger a strike.