Heavy rain and a strong cold front shift the Choke Canyon bite

What anglers are reporting The last solid report from Choke Canyon was late July, when low water had fish concentrated on deep river ledges and offshore timber during the day. The lake has remained significantly below pool, keeping fish tight to whatever hard structure and remaining brush is available in the main lake and lower creek arms.

This week's outlook A major weather shift is hitting the lake right now. After a hot stretch, heavy rain and strong northeast winds are pushing through, bringing over three inches of precipitation and a significant temperature drop. Expect water temperatures, likely sitting in the mid-70s, to cool rapidly. The influx of fresh, muddy water should push shad toward the backs of the creek arms around Calliham and Mason Point, with bass following close behind.

Where to start Focus on the creek channels and any remaining flooded brush or rock in the Calliham area. With the heavy wind and rain, look for mud lines where stained runoff meets clearer lake water. Bass will use these edges to ambush bait. Start on wind-blown rocky points and the edges of submerged roadbeds using moving baits, then back off to the nearest creek channel drop if the bite slows.

Bait box

• White and chartreuse spinnerbaits for windy points
• Squarebill crankbaits in shad patterns for shallow rock
• Bladed jigs in dark colors for muddy runoff areas
• Texas-rigged creature baits for pitching to isolated wood
• Football jigs in craw patterns for dragging deep roadbeds

This weekend Another front arrives Friday into Saturday, dropping highs into the low 60s with stiff north winds. The pre-front window on Thursday and Friday morning could trigger a strong reaction bite on moving baits. By Saturday, expect bluebird skies and tighter fish. Slow down and drag a football jig or Carolina rig along the steeper rocky banks and creek channel bends to coax bites from post-front bass.