Fishing Report – May 12, 2025: Ledge Bites & Jig Season Incoming

As we approach the heart of May, things on Lake Guntersville are looking both promising and unpredictable. Water temperatures have pulled back a bit due to consistent rainfall, and that’s thrown a small wrench into what many would expect for this time of year.

The lake is fishing a lot like it did ten years ago — when the rains came often, the action was steady, and the bite lingered longer in that post-spawn limbo. Right now, a majority of the fish seem to be caught between where they want to go and where the bait is telling them to go. There’s no real push deep just yet because baitfish have no reason to leave the mid-depths. Sure, some bass have slipped out into deeper ledges, but most are still staging — suspended or roaming in-between zones.

We’re still catching fish on both ends of the speed spectrum — moving baits are triggering aggressive bites, while dragging soft plastics and slow presentations are sealing the deal when things get tough.

This past week didn’t go quite the way I expected, especially after the incredible practice week Steve and I had, where it was wide open. The bite has tightened just a little, but we’re still getting bit every day.

Captain Scott proved that again with a stellar trip. Hats off to him — he’s locked in on these bass just like he is on the crappie. The guy’s been firing on all cylinders, and you’ll see that in the photos we’ve posted.

MLF Toyota Series in Town – Busy Water Ahead

Lake Guntersville is buzzing with activity right now as the Major League Fishing Toyota Series rolls into town. With more boats on the water than usual, especially midweek, anglers can expect a bit more pressure in key areas. Be prepared to adjust your timing and locations — early mornings and secondary spots may be your best bet for some peace and unpressured fish.

If you’re planning to fish soon, know that patterns may shift slightly with increased boat traffic. Our guides are out there daily and staying a step ahead — whether that means changing presentations or relocating to sneakier offshore zones.

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Forecast: Jig Season Incoming

With Memorial Day just around the corner, it’s only a matter of time before Alabama flips the switch and the heat really kicks in. That shift will bring higher water temps, increased current, and more fish moving to deep structure — classic ledge season.

We’re already seeing signs that bass are preparing to group up, and we expect to see more consistent ledge bites by late May. What’s interesting this year is how many fish seem to be leaning toward a football jig. That big bite is coming — and if history repeats, the next two weeks could be when it really turns on.

Crappie fishing also continues to impress. While the focus tends to shift toward bass this time of year, those targeting crappie are still getting into solid numbers.