Since Lake Martin is more of a highlands type lake with good water clarity, it lends itself well to finesse tactics throughout the year, especially for bass. The average size of the forage these fish feed on is small, say 3.5 inches or less, whether it’s a minnow, bream, crayfish or some other creature. For most people who are less familiar with the lake, I recommend starting with small baits, spinning gear and light line. That’s the best approach to just catch a few fish, no matter what section of the lake you’re on. If fishing a worm, try one that’s 4 inches or less with an eighth-ounce bullet style sinker and 2/0 hook. Small plastic lizards, craws and creature baits will all catch fish around Lake Martin. Apply the same approach to whatever bait choices you’re considering, and it’s hard to go wrong with small crankbaits, finesse spinnerbaits, small jigs, etc.
Most of the year, I keep this finesse approach when I’m on Lake Martin. The fish can be spooky, and the forage is typically small; smaller baits are a better match. I use spinning rods a good bit, and when it’s time to pick up a bait caster, the line is usually 12-pound test or less. In clear water, my theory is that 15-pound test (Seaguar Tatsu fluorocarbon) is the max before the fish recognize it well enough to affect the bite (a lesson learned from using Livescope). As water clarity decreases, say towards the backs of the creeks or further upriver, it’s OK to bump up to heavier line.Â
