I fish with my dad we've had our boat for 2 years now we fish Conroe, Sommerville, and recently Fayette. I've caught fish on all of them but I don't understand how to go about how to pattern the fish nor find good spots. Also any suggestions on other productive lakes would be appreciated.

This about sums it up. The key to developing a productive patter is to understand where the fish will be located in the water column and why. That is half the battle. The next step is knowing what lure to throw in any given condition and why based on the fishes behavior. Knowing when certain types of lures will produce and why will also help. As the second article states it is trial and error after that. If you are throwong a white spinnerbait in the ideal conditions for that application then stick with it but make a slight change until the fish tell you what they want. Fishing success is mostly about having the patience to figure out what is working. When it starts to work pay close attention and repeat.


http://www.umpquavalleybassmasters.com/bassbook.htm

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/establishing_pattern.html

Yes the poster above gave good advice. Also know the type of structure the fish is often found around. During spawning season looking for spawn. Fishing around wood and vegetation is often going to yield more fish. Don't fish in shallow sunny water in the summer. Look for trees overhanging the water or other shade such as docks with deeper water around them.

Using a depth finder is important in finding the optimal depth. For example in the hot months they can often be found at drop offs in the cooler/deeper water. For smallmouth look for humps in lakes that are surrounded by deep water and are rocky. Use trial and error between live bait and artificial. Warmer weather often necessitates using bigger bait/lure for bass because they are sluggish and thus need more enticement. Storms and/or big changes in weather/barametric pressure often cause fish to go deeper. Try brighter colors in water that is more clear and vice versa. With overhanging trees, try some topwater lures when the water is calm. Fish the "points" as well.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the advice!