I WILL BE FISHING CLEARWATER IN LATE MARCH, WHAT PATTERNS,BAITS?. AT NORMAL POOL HOW FAR CAN YOU RUN UP INTO THE BLACK RIVER.? HOW'S THE SMALLMOUTH FISHING?

                                            THANKS IN ADVANCE.!  S E D

I'm no expert on Clearwater by any means. It's a really small lake. Despite the fact the surrounding terrain would indicate it's a really deep clear body of water, in fact, it only hits about 40' deep at it's deepest spot. If you've never been there and launch by the dam, you'll think the lake is experiencing a drought since the water level goes up the face of the dam such a short distance.  That's normal, that lake could be 3 times the size it is if they'd just allow the water to rise and keep it there.  There is no significant smallmouth fishery there. It's LM and spots.

The lake really fishes small.

Once you get above the Bluffview public use area you quickly run out of water deep enough to run a bass boat in. Jet drives only unless the lake is up.

Use to fish it alot. Was a real good nighttime lake. Used to tear them up on headknocker buzzbaits.  If you put in at bluffview and run towards the dam.  on the left bank there were some good brushpiles that held bass.

It's a very tough fishery. I haven't been there in a couple of years, but I have not heard any reports that it has gotten better since then. The best advice you can get is to keep your expectations low. Use finesse tactics if the water is clear. (That might mean small crankbaits or spinnerbaits to cover water fast.)  Also run-n-gun. Seriously, fish at the good looking spots and then run to the next good looking spot. Don't waste your time with the in-between areas.

Good luck and let us know how you do!