We are in the drawdown period for Lake Martin when water levels can be anywhere from 4 to 8 feet below full pool. This regular drawdown occurs in preparation for heavy winter and spring rains that could potentially raise the lake level by several feet within days. It also provides lake property owners an opportunity to repair seawalls, docks and more. This has been a regular occurrence for as long as I can remember. Generations of fish have adapted to this regularly scheduled drawdown and take full advantage of the opportunities it presents.
First and foremost, the overall surface area of water available to the fish is reduced by thousands of acres, meaning both forage and predator species of fish will be more concentrated. Compared to other reservoirs in our area, Lake Martin is somewhat lacking when it comes to substantial habitat. The lake is nearly 100 years old, so most of the original wood habitat has decomposed over the years. There is little to no vegetation except some sparse water willow in the shallows that’s unavailable to the fish after drawdown. The docks on the lake present a good refuge, but many will be on exposed shoreline at this time of year. So, the cover that remains suitable after drawdown will attract good numbers and quality fish simply because there aren’t as many choices available.
