Poor Lake Skinner

[P.A.W.]

What has happened to the place? I've been fishing this lake for over a decade on a regular basis and this is the longest slow spell I've ever seen. Last year at this time I caught a bunch of 4-8 pound Largemouth bass, and stripers were a bit slow, but catchable. This last couple months have been not only slow, but odd. The usual dawn bite in white water at the inlet is no more. Reaction baits for largemouth aren't doing their usual magic. Yes, there are a few exceptions here and there, but as I said I've been a student of the place for quite a while. Talking with other regulars they agree it's spooky. It all started with the absence of the shad spawn and accompanying striper blitz last October. Every day a dozen boats would line up in the east end waiting with their topwaters and swimbaits. Even the Pelicans and gulls would line the shores. Nada. Yes we could catch some fish, but nothing like years past. After a week or so even the birds went to DVL or someplace else.

Maybe I'm just bored by staying home instead of grinding it out on the no man's land, but thought I'd share my frustration.

[Harley51]

How are the bait and wait guys doing??

[sweetfish]

I totally agree with you Pat. I would think that the fish would be chasing baitfish and be more aggressive right now. Skinner had a few moments back in April / May, but June and July were really slow. Usually this time of year, the fish were eay to catch trolling and hitting the tullies. It is like they are not there anymore and were taken out of the lake.

[rcgj]

I thought I was imagining the lack of action. Glad to read that others are experiencing the same weird behavior of the lake. Hopefully, someone will chime in with a reasonable explanation.

[P.A.W.]

Yah. We can't blame the water level since it's been consistent for months, there's no real algae bloom. The only thing I can think of is the big increase in largemouth tournaments this year, but that shouldn't affect the striper bite.

[Fish Seeker]

Just wondering if any possibility the introduction of the larger shad variety of Gizzard Shad could be having a negative impact and we are starting to see the results? Not suggesting this is the case, just inquiring. Kwin, if you are following this thread, any input on what's going on with Skinner ?
Thanks in advance!