September bringing cool mornings and hot trout action!
Well folks, September’s finally here. The mornings are cooling down, the lake’s clear, and with that steady water coming out of Table Rock Dam, the trout are happy and hungry. I’ve been out every day, and let me tell ya, the bite’s been good!
Water Conditions
The lake is in great shape right now. Water clarity is excellent, and the dam’s been running enough to keep things cool and moving.
When they’re pushing water, I’ve been drifting and getting into fish pretty steady. On those low-flow or still periods, I’ve been wading up in the trophy area below the dam and finding consistent action too.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbows have been hot this month. I’m seeing clients hook into ‘em on just about everything—bright PowerBait, pink worms, and nightcrawlers down near the bottom.
On the fly side, midges, scuds, and soft hackles are all producing, especially when the water’s low. Bank fishermen are catching their share too, with small spoons and spinners getting bit all day long.
Brown Trout
The browns are starting to wake up, especially early in the morning and late in the evening. I’ve been moving some nice fish on jerkbaits, streamers, and big marabou jigs.
If you’re chasing a brown, don’t be afraid to cover water—those bigger fish make you work for it, but man is it worth it when one finally smacks.
Best Spots
The trophy waters below Table Rock Dam are still the place to be if you’re fly fishing. Casual anglers are having fun off the public docks in downtown Branson with live bait. And if you’re drifting from Fall Creek on down, you’ll run into plenty of rainbows with the occasional brown mixed in for good measure.
Tips for Success
I always say keep an eye on that generation schedule—flows change the whole game. Higher water means drifting bait or working bigger lures, while low water is prime time for flies and light tackle.
Downsizing your line and tackle helps too, especially with these clear conditions. And just like last month, early mornings and evenings are still your best bet for hooking into something bigger.
If you’d like to get out on the water, book a trip with me. I’ve been guiding on Lake Taneycomo for over 27 years, and I’d love to put you on fish while sharing the techniques that consistently produce in any condition.