🎣 Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Forecast: November
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 full fall transition 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 Fall Lures: Baits designed to imitate crawfish typically generate the highest strike rates.
Bottom Presentation: Shakey Heads, Drop Shots, and Jigs are productive in depths ranging from 5 to 15 feet. Crankbaits are also a significant component of the fall arsenal.
This period presents an excellent trophy fish opportunity. Smallmouth Bass are consistently located near humps, shoals, and rocky areas, and respond to the same lure presentations.
Condition Note: The pursuit of larger, trophy-sized specimens has been challenging recently. Factors contributing to this include sustained low water levels, water temperatures remaining in the mid-60s, and exceptional water clarity. Improved trophy catches are expected as water temperatures cool further.
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.
Surface Activity: Watch for fast-paced feeding activity on the surface during early morning and late evening periods.
Structural Focus: Target the mouths of major tributaries and large bay areas. Larger topwater plugs are recommended during surface feeding events.
Crappie
The majority of Crappie catches are currently being reported in the 15- to 25-foot depth range.