Greetings Everyone,

This is my first posting so hopefully I can learn from all of you.  I just moved from NM to AL not to long ago and was hoping I could get some tips on catching smallies and Largemouth in this area.  I live in Huntsville area and have been to both Guntersville and Wheeler and I haven't been to successful at either one of them.  Averaging 2-3 a day which is horrible for NM.  I know I must be fishing the wrong spots but unfortunately the boats I have been renting do not have a depth finder on them so I'm am sort of lost in the dark.  I tried Goose pond last weekend and landed only 1!  I was completely discouraged but still continued to fish because I love the sport.  I really like it at Decatur area but still haven't the first clue on where to start.  I have never fished for smallies in a stream before so it is a new concept for me.  Thanks guys

Welcome aboard!

The best thing to do is hire a guide for a day.

8-)

The next best thing to do is join the Alabama River Fishing board at another site.com

Hello! Use the basics. Work the water column. Get good maps of the lakes and fish those structure/cover  types conducive to bass at the appropriate season of the year. Break the lake down into a manageable section. you'll get on the bite!

to the forum,  I agree with Kent aka roadwarrior, your best thing to do would be to hire a guide.

I appreciate it everyone.  

I live in Huntsville and primarily fish out in Guntersville or the TN river for quick evening trips. I would say I average 10-13 largemouth in Guntersville around this time of year and 5-10 on the TN river (obviously depending on conditions).

In Guntersville I think you can get by without a fish finder by fishing grass lines. Lake Guntersville is one big hydrilla/milfoil farm this time of year and fishing the grass lines will usually result in a few fish, even if you aren't able to determine the bottom composition and terrain. There are a few areas south of Goosepond that are dynamite for largemouth, that being the Mink Creek area and South Sauty Creek area.

There are a number of really good guides that work Lake Guntersville and they have very reasonable rates. As others have stated, they are your best bet for learning how to and where to find fish on Lake Guntersville.

The TN river hasn't produced as many, or as large of fish as Guntersville. But you can launch around Ditto Landing and there is some decent fishing in that area. I like heading down there after work sometimes when I don't have the time to head out to Guntersville. And lately I head that way because its a lot cheaper in gas.

Thanks Ellesar,

I've been told that Guntersville is by far the best in the country for Large and I defenitely believe it.  I noticed that it is about 90% grass so it must be holding some nice bass.  I actually did very well out in Decatur last night fishing the main docks.  I have been talking to alot of locals and they are VERY knowlegable of this area.  10" culprits and white spinners seem to be doing the trick:)  Anyways,  thanks again for your posting.

Don't forget the Senko's. I caught 12 last night on the TN river, averaging about 1.5 lb, largest going 3.5 all using the Senko magic. After trying these baits, and getting up on the learning curve, I am now drinking the Senko koolaid.

In fact, I'm fixing to run to Gander Mtn to restock!

Welcome.

I used to live just north of Birmingham and fish Pickwick, Wheeler, and Guntersville a lot. Join a club in the area and those guys will have you on them in a hurry.

Thanks Fish,

I'll defenitely look into that.  I'll be moving to Florida soon but I'm sure I could learn alot from the locals.  I took Ellesars advice and have been doing very well on Baby Bass Senkos.  I'll put up the pics as soon as I get them downloaded.  Thanks everyone