Green Top Sporting Goods Fishing Report 1/5/17

Fresh Water- 15+ lbs won the 6th Winter Series Bass Tournament out of Sturgeon Creek Marina. 2nd place was 14+ lbs. Anglers reported catching fish on swimbaits, jerkbaits, silver buddies, and drop shots. Stripers are being caught all over the lake right now, but mid to uplake has been better. Water temps are around 46 degrees at the 208 bridge. Crappie are schooling up around the bridges like Stubbs and Holladay.

Recent rains will probably stain things up in the areas’ smaller lakes this weekend, but the Bass and Crappie fishing should still remain good.

The tidal rivers could be impacted the same way, so check conditions before heading out. The catfish action has been very good on the lower James, and will continue throughout the winter. Under clear or slightly stained conditions, the Bass fishing is excellent.

The Chickahominy is especially good now and through the winter due to the many swamps that filter out the muddy water, causing it to remain clear. Anglers will soon begin to target the Yellow Perch as they will begin their migrations. 

Salt Water- Rockfish season ended with some blustery conditions the last 2 days, but days prior, conditions were good and anglers capitalized on the opportunities. Loads of large fish were brought to the scales on both sides of the bay.
Ocean season now begins, but reports have been slow or non- existent. Hopefully, fish will show up inside the 3- mile demarcation line. For now, anglers can target Tautog along the structures of the CBBT. They are usually eager biters once located. The concrete ships at Kiptopeke are a reliable spot for small vessels or when not so ideal conditions exist. Anglers can also target Speckled Trout throughout the bay. These fish can be much more finicky. Mirr-o-lures are typically preferred for cold water applications. Puppy Drum will often be caught in the same areas as the Trout. Inside the James, Lynnhaven Inlet, and Rudee Inlet are typically good areas. Deep dropping for Tilefish, Grouper, and Seabass, (out of season) remains good when conditions dictate. The Triangle Wrecks are good for various species like Flounder, Tog, and Seabass. (out of season)