High Falls lake is an untapped resource to
bass anglers. The relative number of large bass (15-25 inches) is
ranked near the top among major reservoirs within the state with
approximately 33 percent of the population larger than 15 inches.
The average bass is around 13 inches and weighs about 1 ½
pounds. Relatively low bass fishing pressure (due to motor
restrictions) and high numbers of large fish should result in
some very good bass fishing.
Technique
Try crankbaits and jigs in Buck Creek and
Watkin's Bottom during spring and fall for big fish. For lunkers,
try "pitching" spinner baits around docks and downed trees during
early to mid-morning.
Target
Target areas with point bars and downed
trees in the water.
Striped
Bass
Prospect
Both striped bass and hybrids were stocked
until 2006. Since then, only striped bass stocking has continued
to support a state-wide effort to re-establish the native striped
bass into the watershed. Stripers will average 3-5 pounds and a
few will reach a quality size of up to 26 inches.
Technique
Try working spoons and grub baits just
above the dam during winter and early spring. For large stripers,
try drift fishing with live or cut shad.
Target
Target the upper reaches of the lake and
into the Towaliga River during the March - April spawning runs.
Also target Watkins Bottom.
Catfish
Prospect
Channel catfish numbers have steadily
increased over the last few years due to excellent recruitment.
The 2008 year-class was exceptional and in 2009 have grown to
harvestable size. Nearly 40 percent of the channel catfish are 11
to 16 inches long. Channel catfish are more common than flatheads
and average around 1.5 pounds, however, those exceeding 5 pounds
are abundant. Trophy-size flatheads of 20 pounds or greater also
are available.
Technique
Drift fishing with live or cut shad is
recommended.
Target
Fish deep holes and channel bends in the
lower end of the lake for flatheads and channel cats.
Crappie
Prospect
Crappie are very abundant with trophy
potential. Expect average catches between 8 and 10 inches, though
1-2 pounders are available.
Technique
Trolling jigs above the dam, around
drop-offs, points and creek channels is effective in winter and
early spring. Minnows and jigs fished in shallow water near
brush, stumps or blow-downs is most effective once water
temperatures reach 60 degrees in the spring.
Target
Look for submerged timber and stumps near
the main channel for late fall and wintering schools of
crappie.
Hybrid
Bass
Prospect
Though hybrid striped bass were last
stocked in 2006, a few very large individuals are still
prevalent. Anglers looking to catch a trophy should give it a try
as the remaining hybrids are around 10 lbs.
Technique
Try working spoons and grub baits just
above the dam during winter and early spring. For large hybrids,
try drift fishing with live or cut shad.
Target
Target the upper reaches of the lake and
into the Towaliga River during the March - April spawning runs.
Also target Watkins Bottom.
Other
Species
Prospect
Bream are abundant but few reach catchable
size. Bluegill and redear (shellcracker) are the most plentiful;
however, redbreast also are available. Expect the average
bluegill to reach 3 to 6 inches and the less abundant redear to
reach 4 to 7 inches.
Technique
Live worms and crickets are favorite bait
for bream.
Good: 
Fair: 
