Heavy rain and a strong front shake up the fall bite

What anglers are reporting The last solid reports from Travis were back in the spring, so we are flying blind on fresh dock talk this week. With the massive five and a half inches of rain that rolled through earlier this week, expect some significant changes to water clarity and lake level.

This week's outlook We are deep into the fall transition. The heavy influx of fresh water should have shad pushing hard into the backs of creeks and coves, and the bass will be right behind them. Water temperatures should be sitting in the mid to upper sixties. The upper end of the lake and major creek arms will likely be heavily stained from the runoff, while the lower end near the dam should retain more of its classic clear water.

Where to start Focus your search in the creeks and coves where you find stained water meeting clearer water. Target secondary rocky points, floating marina docks, and any newly flooded cover. If the water is heavily stained, fish tighter to the bluffs and rock piles.

Bait box

• Topwater walkers (bone or chrome for early morning)
• Squarebill crankbaits (shad patterns for stained creeks)
• Spinnerbaits (white and chartreuse to cover water)
• Finesse jigs (green pumpkin for skipping under docks)

This weekend We have a major front arriving Thursday into Friday, bringing strong north winds and dropping highs into the fifties by Saturday. The pre-front window on Wednesday and Thursday should offer a strong reaction bite. By Saturday, expect bluebird skies and tough post-front conditions. Downsize your line, slow down, and skip wacky rigs or finesse jigs deep under marina slips to find fish tucked tight to shade and cover.