For over 32 years anglers have enjoyed the mid Alabama River waters known as Jones Bluff Reservoir. Flowing right through the capital city of Montgomery, this twisting and winding river covers over 80 miles of navigable waters.  Even Bassmasters have found it to be to their liking, with a recent tournament here and the Bassmasters Classic held here in 1981 and 1982.

The headwaters of this lake flow off of two dams, originating from two separate river systems. One fork of Jones Bluff lake's headwaters is the Coosa River tailrace waters, flowing off of Jordan Lake's, Walter F. Bouldin Dam. The other influx for Jones Bluff Lake's headwaters is the tailrace waters of the Tallapoosa River featuring Lake Martin dam, found far upstream, through boulder-filled waters.  Both of these river systems join together to form the Alabama River's origin.

Anglers fishing Jones Bluff Lake this past Summer and early Fall season, discovered some excellent fishing for both Alabama Spotted Bass and some hefty Largemouth's as well. But question any angler about winter fishing on this lake and many simply imply, "I don't fish it much in winter"...too bad. For I can personally say, "they are missing out on some great winter time fishing."

To begin with, current, like the rest of the year on Jones Bluff Lake dictates bass movement on this constantly flowing river system. Although many anglers don't associate current with winter fishing, the mighty Alabama River Spotted bass does. This current-oriented bass species, thrives on the flowing waters bringing them their daily meals.

Lures such as deep diving crankbaits, jigging spoons, Texas and Carolina-rigged plastics, jig combos, small worms and lizards and tube baits, are all excellent lure choices for fishing creek mouths, islands, main river points and sand bars. On cloudy days, following week long winter warming trends, these spotted bass and some nice largemouth's, have even been known to hit topwaters, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, jerkbaits and rattletraps as well.

There are certain areas found all over this lake, with slack water right next to swift water features, that will often hold huge schools of spotted bass during the winter months. Often, this can be a very small window of opportunity, that is meaning whether you get a bite or go completely fishless. So always keep this in mind. Thoroughly fishing each spot, in a very slow manner with a variety of offerings, can be productive for the patient angler this winter on Jones Bluff Lake.

Although the lakes headwaters are excellent places to find plenty of fish and current, there is one thing that can spoil a good game plan. Rain. Winter rains can swell the lake, creating very muddy conditions in these lake headwaters. The mid-to-lower main lake regions, from Cooters Pond to the lower lake dam, are much more productive during winter. This mid-to-lower lake region features much better water clarity following winter rains. Schools of baitfish are also a key ingredient to finding fish this winter on Jones Bluff Lake.

So if your planned trip to Jones Bluff this winter follows heavy rains, avoid the lakes headwaters and any main influx such as a major feeder creek. Stay on the main body of water...to catch fish.

Or call on Reeds Guide Service (205) 787-5133. Website: www.FISHINGALABAMA.com Call today to book a trip. Several qualified professional guides available, year round, fishing for bass and stripers, on any lake in Alabama...for over 40 years.

This report provided by:
Reed Montgomery / Reeds Guide Service
Producer / Host "Fishing Alabama" With Reed Montgomery Radio Show
"Celebrating 5 Years on the Radio Jan 2004"
Sunday Morning's 9-10 A.M. Central Time
Radio Station WJOX 690 AM Birmingham, Alabama
Call Reeds Guide Service...First! (205) 787-5133
"Over 40 Years Fishing Alabama for Bass and Stripers"
E-mail: ALABASSGYD@aol.com
Website: www.FISHINGALABAMA.com