Greers Ferry near Heber Springs, Arkansas is widely known for endless fish catching opportunities, but not so much for heavy weight bags. It seems in years past, angler strategies have focused on limit fillers, then to go and hunt for a heavyweight.
However, that was not the case this past weekend when the Mr. Bass of Arkansas kicked off its 2024 season amidst the foul weather that plagued the area all weekend with rising lake levels, and cooler temps.
Cole Lamb of Russellville topped the scales, and the 114 boat field Sunday at Greers Ferry lake with 18.09 earning a $7,000 payday plus incentives, and the coveted Mr. Bass of Arkansas trophy.
Like others, knowing the rain was going to mix things up, Lamb spent Thursday looking around the 40,000 acre impoundment focusing on what will be, rather than what is.
Late winter / early Spring weather can produce some on the water magic when it comes to warm rains producing run-off areas that fish can migrate to in search of warmer waters, and the incoming nutrients.
From what Lamb found on his single day of practice, he felt confident that he could catch a limit in the clearer water utilizing forward facing sonar and a Damiki Rig. He felt that by mid-morning gave the fish enough time to possibly pivot to specific run-offs where he not only took advantage of the foul weather, but went to work catching, not just fishing.
Lamb noted that he caught over 70 fish in his main area from 12pm-3pm in varying depths and a multitude of baits. Active fish were relating to the influx of the new water, and the presence of bait was a determining factor in coaxing a 7.56 Largemouth, that also earned big bass honors off a jerkbait.
“I want to specifically thank both Aaron Mize and Horizon Trike and Marine for allowing me the time off to go fish” added Lamb.
Creighton Sawyer of Perryville nipped at Lamb’s heels with a solid limit weighing 17.52 for Second place.
Sawyer stated that the weather played a vital role in his area as the rain water dumped into the lake, positioning the fish to his liking, thus being able to run a pattern style approach within a known area. “The fish were transitioning with the dirtier water” stated Sawyer.
The strategy he employed was to catch a quick limit, then look for better fish to up his weight with an A-Rig. As he culled up ounces throughout the day, Sawyer employed a focus centered on baitfish that were concentrated in the fresh water.
“I may have left my best area too soon, and left some weight on the table. Mistakes are what makes us better anglers.” added Sawyer.
The next Mr. Bass of Arkansas event will take place March 3 on Lake Ouachita.
