🎣 Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Forecast: December
Report Prepared By:
Captain Chad Green
Last Cast Guide Service SML
www.lastcastguideservicesml.com
Essential Resources & Support
Anglers are encouraged to maximize their time on the water and practice catch and release whenever possible to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of our fisheries.
| Category | Partner / Resource | Contact / Website |
| Tackle & Gear | Indian Point Marina (at Hales Ford Bridge) | Visit in Person |
| Lures & Baits | Missile Baits | https://missilebaits.store/ |
| Boating Needs | Smith Mountain Boat and Tackle (Penhook) | https://www.smboats.com |
| Special Thanks | Brian Carter at The Bass Cast | https://thebasscast.com/ |
Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass
Both bass species are exhibiting a winter phase this month. Anglers should anticipate fish occupying a wide range of depths due to the currently low and clear water conditions.
Key Target Areas: Focus efforts on rocky structures, flat points, shallow drop-offs, and deeper dock locations.
Effective Techniques and Lures:
Moving Baits: Highly effective during morning hours and likely to yield quality catches.
Primary Winter Lures: Baits designed to imitate crawfish and baitfish typically generate the highest catch rates.
Bottom Presentation: Shakey Heads, Drop Shots, Jerkbaits and Jigs are productive in depths ranging from 5 to 15 feet. Crankbaits are also a significant component of the winter arsenal. Look for fish suspended or near bait in the 15-25 ft range also this time of year as the water cools. Windy days with sunshine will be the most productive.
This time of year presents an excellent trophy fish opportunity. Smallmouth Bass are consistently located near humps, shoals, and rocky areas, and respond to the same lure presentations.
Conditions: Low water levels will continue to present a challenging fishing conditions. We are in a time period now where snow/rain runoff will help raise the water levels back to normal. Trophy sized fish can still be caught right now as we enter the winter phases.
Striped Bass (Stripers)
Striped Bass activity is projected to be strong this month as the species aggregates into larger schools in preparation for the fall season. Fish may also be observed moving in smaller groups while actively seeking feeding opportunities.
Location and Depth: The majority of the action is concentrated from the mid-lake to the upper end.
Jigging: Technique remains productive throughout the day in the 30- to 50-foot depth range. Larger individuals may appear periodically within these smaller traveling schools.
Structural Focus: Target the mouths of major tributaries and large bay areas.
Crappie
The majority of Crappie catches are currently being reported in the 15- to 25-foot depth range.