Fall patterns hold on Lake LBJ ahead of heavy weekend rain

What anglers are reporting The last solid reports from LBJ were back in the spring, so we are relying on seasonal patterns and current conditions this week. With recent air temperatures in the 70s and nights in the upper 50s, expect water temperatures to be sitting in the upper 60s. The lake level remains constant, but recent light rain and the heavy rain in the forecast will likely add some stain to the creek arms and the Llano River end.

This week's outlook November means shad are pushing back into the creek arms, and the bass are following them. The cooling water concentrates baitfish along bulkheads and rocky banks. With overcast skies and scattered showers early in the week, moving baits should get plenty of attention. The bite will likely be aggressive as fish feed up before the major front arrives on Sunday.

Where to start Focus on the bulkheads and rocky banks in the mid-lake and creek arms. If the LCRA is moving water, those main-lake bulkheads become prime targets. Do not ignore the docks, especially those near the mouths of creeks. Skipping soft plastics deep under the walkways and into boathouse shade is always a reliable backup plan on LBJ when the reaction bite slows down.

Bait box

• Squarebill crankbaits (shad patterns for bulkheads and rock)
• Spinnerbaits (white/chartreuse for stained water and wind)
• Wacky-rigged stickbaits (green pumpkin for skipping docks)
• Texas-rigged craws (black/blue for boathouse shade)

This weekend Saturday brings strong south winds up to 18 mph, which will push bait against windblown banks and create a strong pre-front feeding window. Throw spinnerbaits and squarebills right into the wind. Sunday looks like a washout with over four inches of rain expected and temperatures dropping into the 60s. If you fish Sunday, prepare for rapidly rising, muddy water in the creeks and a bite that tightens up to cover as the front passes.