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« September 2014 | Main | November 2014 »

October 31, 2014

So You Want To Be a Slab Master

I recently updated my spreadsheet with the latest catch results from nearly all the Indiana Slab Master crappie events held since the club began in November 2010. That table now has data from nearly 1200 angler teams comprising roughly 19,000 man-hours on the water. The results continue to be interesting, and are starting to line out into a distinct pattern. I've graphed the data and included it below.

The data is grouped into 1 pound increments. Anglers are allowed to weigh up to 7 crappie as their limit, and all fish must be 9" in length or greater. As an example, in the graph above, 1s would be all crappie sacks brought in that weighed between 1.0 and 1.99 pounds. That same line of thinking applies to all respective weights. A few quick highlights from the data:

  • The average sack weighed in now stands at 3.62 pounds.
  • The median sack, the weight that half of the sacks were greater than, and half were less than, is 3.92 pounds.
  • Approximately 14% of all teams have blanked or failed to weigh their fish over the course of all events.
  • Less than 7% of all sacks have averaged more than 1 pound per fish. Worded another way, more than 93% of all sacks weighed (1097 of the 1177) had less than a pound per fish average.
  • The largest sack ever weighed was this month at 11.60 pounds.
  • The best big crappie lake in the state (based on the 10 different waters fished over the years) is Monroe, which accounts for 8 of the 10 largest sacks ever weighed. Patoka is a distant second.
  • The best overall year for crappie anglers was 2012 (based on average/median weights for that year).

If you want to get an idea of just what a slightly better than normal sack of crappie weighs in relation to length, I did a little test a couple years back on my home lake where I kept 7 nice but average keepers, the longest of which was just over 11" and the smallest of which was 9.75". Most were about 10.5" and all were black crappie. That sack of 7 fish weighed 4.43 pounds. If you equalize out all the data to 100, that sack would rank 39th. Again, 50th would have been slightly less at 3.92 pounds, which would probably be 7 fish all around 10"-10.5" (black crappie). White crappie usually weigh slightly less for the same length.

 

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October 29, 2014

Ohio River Rocky Pt. - The Struggle On the River

The third piece of our angling triangle is Rocky Point. While Tanner's Creek and Madison are likely tougher fisheries, the BFLs simply haven't made either of those a regular enough stop to generate much worthwhile data. However, that's not a problem with Rocky Point, which has been on the Hoosier Division schedule, often twice a year, for the past 15 years, as far back as FLW records are searchable. In recent years, it seems like Rocky Point has become the locale of choice for the season ending Super Tournament, also.

As you might expect, weights down on the river are lower than at either Patoka or Monroe. A quick look at the graph reveals the best days down there have been well in the past, likely around the mid to late 1990s. Ever since, the trend at all positions has been downward. Only in the past two seasons have we seen a slight uptick in weights. Whether that's an anomaly or a trend is yet to be determined. Hopefully, the river might be rebounding.

As for weights, you'll need an average of 11 pounds in order to have a shot at winning, as that weight would have won half of all one-day events held, and is both the median and the average for winners. If you can manage to bump that a couple ounces north of 12 pounds, you'll have a better than 80 percent chance of winning any given event. To make the Top 10, you're going to need about 6.5 pounds most days, and 4.5 pounds will get you a Top 25 finish.

To give you a little perspective, and to reinforce the point John DeVries was trying to make in his recent commentary post about the Michigan Division, the average winning Rocky Pt. weight of 11 pounds (or for that matter, the aforementioned 12 pounds) would not have been enough to even break the Top 50 in ANY Michigan Div. BFL event held this year (all were on St. Clair or the Detroit R.). Instead, that weight would get you about 80th place in most events. It usually takes about 13.5 pounds to make the Top 50 up there.

So browse the data and use it to strategize next year instead of going in blind. Indiana fisheries are fairly consistent from year to year, at least on our larger and more popular tournament venues.

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October 27, 2014

An open letter to the fishermen of Indiana

By John DeVries

I’m biased; there, I admit it. I love fishing in the state of Michigan.  You won’t get any argument from me there.  I fish every major event I can, and there’s a reason!  It’s not because I’m crazy or stupid, however the verdict is still out on that.  It’s because of the opportunities.

Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair are constantly on the BASS Top-100 list and as much as I’d like some to be, no lake in Indiana has ever been put on such a list.  At times, Geist and Morse Reservoirs have the potential to be outrageously awesome, as proven by Jacob Wheeler and Bryan Johnson’s 30 pound springtime bag last year. The rest of the state constantly comes up short.  Boggs, although small, turned into quite the place until the powers that be made a decision and changed its fate once again.  Why?

I spent a few years running around like the rest of you, chasing the few fish that live in Indiana’s lakes.  I was frustrated to say the least.  More than once I decided to give up, thinking I wasn’t cut out for this sport.  I thought it was me.  One year in the 90s, I was lucky enough to be dating a girl whose uncle was a Lake Erie multi-species guide.  Every spring on opening day, he would invite his family up to enjoy.  Knowing my love of fishing, they were kind enough to ask me along.  We spent most of the morning drifting around with bottom bouncers targeting walleye.  We had some luck, but by mid-day the bite got slow.  Like any good guide and uncle, he decided to make a move to show his family a good time.  It didn’t take me long to figure out what was going on, and I moved to the front of the larger boat to get some room to cast.  I had no idea what to throw but figured a trap would be a good choice.  Never previously had I experienced what was about to happen.  Well, maybe salt water fishing growing up back east, but never fresh water fishing.  I went on a tear, catching fish after fish, for what felt like an hour!!!  Calling for the net time and time again, I didn’t realize I was monopolizing the captain’s time and keeping him away from his family.  It took that realization to get me to stop.  Needless to say, I was hooked.  I still fished in Indiana after that, but that day was burned into my brain.  I would from time to time, and especially in the spring, make a trip up to try and relive that day.

Fast forward to 2014, almost 20 years later.  For many years I felt like a rebel.  I left my home state, fishing-wise, for greener pastures. Back in the early part of the 2000s, I decided to spend more time north than here and never looked back.  I still fish the waters close to me here at home in the early spring, but my heart quickly turns north come June.  It’s been so long, I’m not sure I even know how to get to French Lick anymore.

Over the years, I tried and tried to get others to join me - always a hard sell.  The big water and the city of Detroit are the walls no one really wants to climb. I can imagine both of those being intimidating, but for me I felt right at home.  Growing up in New York and spending my childhood fishing in the ocean I felt fast at home.   I have managed to convince a few over the years, in particular, my friend Mark Peiser.  He had a great year and a strong finish at the super tournament, pushing him up into the top 40 and qualifying him for the Kentucky Lake Regional with an almost 19 lb. first day and almost 20 lb. second.  Mark caught a total of 26 bass for just over 80 pounds this season and finished 34th in the AOY points for the division.  Respectable to say the least, against some tough competitors.  

It took years of trying, but finally I convinced one of the "old timers," Terry McWilliams, to join me up north.  I'd say I did it, but it was most likely the location of the Michigan regional that persuaded him.  Either way, I was happy to see someone of his experience and stature joining us.  I saw the opportunity in it. Terry joined the ranks in the Michigan BFLs this year.  Many of you know Terry but some of you may not.  Terry is a 60-something going on 20-something who constantly blows me away.  I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Terry for a number of years now and he never ceases to amaze me with his drive and passion for our sport.  For example, he suffered a heart attack in the middle of this season, just weeks before one of our events.  Yet, against doctor’s orders, I'm sure, he convinced his wife and set off to compete.  I was once again astonished!

Terry’s year was awesome.  “John, I had the fish on to win some of those days,” he said...and I don’t doubt it.  Terry goes on to say, “I’ll probably fish up there to the day I die.”  Let’s hope that’s no time soon, buddy.  Terry has fished for many years in the state of Indiana.  He has a long history on its lakes, much of which have been captured by tournament results found on FLW Outdoors and B.A.S.S..  One year, Terry qualified for the Barren River Regional in a way I never thought possible.  I got a phone call from him toward the end of 2011.  He was happy to tell me that after a tough year, he managed to make it to the Regional, taking the last spot.  He went on to tell me, “I made it only catching 4 fish.” I asked, which tournament was that?  He said, “For the whole year, John.”  I almost dropped the phone.  He managed one fish in four of the tournaments and zeroed in another.  His largest days catch that year was 2-07 and his smallest was 0-15.  And just 6-01 for the season.  WOW!!!

In the Indiana Division, from 2011 to 2013, Terry participated in 12 BFLs.  He caught a total of 19 bass for approximately 46 pounds, give or take.  His largest day’s catch, caught back in 2005, was 10-12.  In 2014, Terry’s decision to join me in the Michigan Division rewarded him with 28 bass caught for a total weight of 89-13 and a finish of 12th in the AOY points.  Guys, this is for 5 tournaments!  His largest day’s catch: 21-13.

Regardless of the reasons, fishing is tough in Indiana.  We are all in the same boat, figuratively speaking, when it comes to this fact.  So, now I finally get to my point.  Why?  Why do we put up with it?  Why do we keep chasing, what feels like, the same five fish year after year?  Is it that we think by coming back year after year things will change?  Regardless of your reasons, I’d like to take a minute to invite you north to experience the boundless opportunities.  It’s not that much further of a drive, and it’s not that hard to find fish, because let’s face it, they live there. For me personally, I’d rather deal with the pain of a rough ride and catch fish, than have a smooth ride and come up empty handed.  I could go on forever about my days up there, but I’ll save that for another time.  Till then...

Best Regards,

Big John

 

** John DeVries is a veteran central Indiana tournament angler who regularly fishes the Michigan Division BFLs and who has qualified for several Regionals. John has also fished numerous events across the country including FLW Tour Opens and Rayovac Series events, as well as B.A.S.S. Opens. John will be contributing monthly pieces to Big Indiana Bass covering a variety of bass fishing and tournament related topics.

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October 26, 2014

Crappie - It's What's For Dinner

First time out all year, I believe, with good buddy Bryan Johnson. Decided to make a fall crappie run, and we were able to catch between 100-110, I'd guess. Ended up boxing nearly a double limit. My counter said 48, so we stopped in case I missed one or two in the heat of the moment. Actually, it was a lot slower than the numbers would suggest. Most came from 7'-10' of water, and all on jigs. Water temp was 63 degrees. Here are a couple pics.

 

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October 25, 2014

White Bass On Down Imaging

DI

WB

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October 24, 2014

Analyzing the Patoka BFLs

Once you've seen the Monroe BFL data, the next likely question is what about Patoka? Here you go.

A quick look at the numbers tells you that Patoka has been a much better fishery compared to Monroe. Average winning weight is nearly 2 pounds better (16.7 lbs. vs. 14.7 lbs.), and there have been several winning sacks over 20 pounds caught. Looking down the chart at 10th and 25th places confirms this thought. On average, 10th place Patoka anglers weigh 2.5 pounds better sacks, and 25th place anglers weigh about 2 pounds more than on Monroe, though the median value is just a pound better. One thing, though, is that you tend to see a bit more variability at all three positions on Patoka. That is reflected by the peaks and dips you see on the chart above.

A couple other interesting observations to note. First is that outside of a single Super Tournament, the Hoosier Division bypassed Patoka on it's schedule from 1994 - 1999. I can't say what the reason is for that, though it could be tied to permit availability. Another possibility is that for anyone that fished Patoka in the late 80s and early 90s, you'll remember that it sucked as far as keepers were concerned. There was a ton of little bass, and it was almost luck to run into a keeper out there. That had prompted DNR to put a slot limit on the lake, and many tournament circuits ran just the high side of the slot with a 15" limit, so perhaps all that had something to do with the decision to not go there.

Another interesting thing is the trend of catches at all three positions. Like Monroe, the trend for winning sacks at Patoka has been positive, where it keeps taking more weight (on average) to win over there. However, unlike Monroe that has flat or positive trendlines at the 10th and 25th place sacks, Patoka weights have been steadily dropping at those two positions, definite declining trendlines. What's it mean? My first inclination would be that while we're seeing more quality fish on the high end of the scale, we're seeing less keepers overall being caught. I'd have to run those numbers to be certain, but it appears like a possible recruitment problem for smaller bass, where there are less and less "keepers" being produced. It's something we should probably keep an eye on over the coming years.

I haven't decided if I'll tackle the river data yet. The overwhelming majority of Hoosier BFL events have been there, likely the result of not needing to go through the permit application process, as well as a lack of restriction on number of boats allowed in an event. We'll see...

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October 23, 2014

Lake Monroe: The Dead Sea Statistics

One of the things that really helped me be a more consistent bass angler when I was competing, was taking the time to understand exactly what I needed to accomplish in the way of catching come tournament day. Everyone talks about big bags, great practices and swinging for the fences - yada yada yada - but that's largely a bunch of hot air, IMHO. The chart above should give you a good example of exactly what I'm talking about.

Every year (except one), for the past 20 years, the BFL Hoosier Division has made a stop at Monroe Res. If you take the time to analyze some of the catch metrics over all those events, you'll find some pretty interesting data. For example, it's never taken 20 pounds to win that event regardless of year or season held. If you run the numbers, you'll see that 15 pounds is basically both the median and the average winning weight. During the late 1990s and early 2000s, there was a 7 year stretch where it took less than 15 pounds to win every event. That's 5 three pounders. That should be your goal if you want to win, but that's just the beginning.

The next set of data in the chart is the weight needed to finish in the Top-10. Here again, only twice in 20 years has it taken more than 10 pounds. Looking at the median and the average, they are literally identical at 8 pounds. Catch it and you have a strong chance of finishing inside the Top-10, or at least cashing a check. Knowing that, practice for it. You don't need a great pattern or a big school of fish to box that. You need 4 spots that will give up a 2 pound bass. When you think in those terms, things are a lot less intimidating.

The final set of numbers is the weight to finish 25th, still a very respectable finish that will get you a ton of points and help guarantee your place in a Regional. The weight? Just 5 pounds. One fish (if you're lucky), or a 3 and a 2, or 2 two and a halfs. 

The standard deviations on those last two metrics (10th, 25th) is low, plus/minus 1.5 pounds. Even the winning STDEV is only 2.75 pounds. In other words, these numbers (and the fishery) have been pretty stable over the years. There are very few surprises, or at least there shouldn't be any. So be calm, don't panic, and don't overthink (or over practice) this. Catch a keeper, catch 5 pounds, catch 8 pounds, and pretty much know exactly where you're going to finish in the next event.

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October 20, 2014

Lake Waveland 2015 Tournament Date Drawing

 

Please review the attached documents for more information regarding the fishing tournament program at Lake Waveland.The most notable change is that after a financial review of park operating cost and the fees being charged at Lake Waveland the Waveland Town board approved an increase in the tournament application fee to $50 per tournament date application.

Lake Waveland 2015 Tournament Date Drawing  

Date: 11-15-14 Time: Open at 1:00pm for registration, begin drawing at 1:30pm Location: Waveland Town Hall – Next to the Fire Station 108 W. Howard Waveland, Indiana 47989

 

We would like to invite an authorized member of your organization to attend the tournament date drawing on Saturday November 15th 2014 at 1:00pm in the Waveland Town Hall.

Lake Waveland Park will accept applications to schedule tournament fishing events for the 2015 season beginning Saturday November 15th 2014 at 1:00pm. There will be an “in person” drawing event at the Waveland Town Hall. Applications may also be made by mail. In person applications have preference over mailed in applications. Mailed in applications will be processed based on the order received and the availability of the date/dates requested. The in person applications (complete application form) will begin with a drawing to determine the selection order of each participant. During each round of the drawing participants may select one (1) tournament date. After round one participants interested in only one tournament date will have their dates confirmed and may see the cashier to make the appropriate payment. Additional rounds will be conducted until all participants have selected all the tournament dates they need. Completed applications and appropriate fees are required for each date requested. Photocopies of application forms are acceptable. Cash, check or money order for $50 must accompany all approved applications for each tournament date.

You may mail in a completed tournament permit application and a $50 check or money order to:

Fishing Tournament Permit Applications, PO Box 186, Waveland, IN 47989.

Please direct any questions regarding tournament activity at Lake Waveland to Email: 

  • Download 01 Waveland Fishing Tournament Regulations 2015
  • Download 02 Waveland Fishing Tournament Application

 

Mission Statement

Our Mission is to increase the safety and enjoyment for all of the various users of the lake and protect and preserve our natural resources for future generations to enjoy.

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October 19, 2014

Better Post Front Bite - Go Figure

So you'd think with all the wind and rain and low pressure, yesterday would have been the better day - not so. Maybe I wasn't fishing in the right area or with the right baits, but for whatever reason, white bass were about the only thing that seemed to be biting. Today dawns clear and cold, with widespread frost warnings. Light breeze and mostly sunny skies - and the bite was a lot better than expected. Go figure.

 

Didn't actually fish for bass too terribly long today, but managed nearly a dozen including a 16", a 17.5" and this 19.25" fish, all on the Kahara micro jig/pig.

 

Surprisingly, the crappie bite was pretty good. They normally shut down after a front, but I landed 60 today up to 12".

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October 18, 2014

Everything But Big Indiana Bass

Haven't got out much, but when I have, I've been catching quite a few fish, and several nice sized ones, just nothing big in the way of largemouth. Here's a few other nice fish though to look at.

 

Several nice crappie on Thursday afternoon over 12 inches. The fish on the bottom went 1.2 pounds.

 

A couple shots of a nearly 28" hybrid striped bass caught Saturday afternoon. Water was pretty clear with visibility to 3.5 feet, and surface water temps at 60 degrees.



 

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