By Brad Wiegmann
Editor’s note: Brad Wiegmann is a Beaver Lake fishing guide, tournament angler and outdoor writer who lives on the lake. His expertise on the lake and bass fishing expertise makes him perfect to file this report on the FLW Tour event held there over the next four days.
For BOOYAH Pro Kyle Mabrey, from Mccalla, Ala., it seems like a long time since he has fished Beaver Lake; however, if he has another top ten finish it will be worth the wait. Mabrey finished in sixth place last year on Beaver Lake and he is hoping for the similar results for the 2009 FLW Tour event that begins today.
Mabrey may be an illogical pick to excel against some of the professional anglers who live on highland reservoirs. Past success on Beaver indicates this angler can make the needed adjustments, but he’s more accustomed to a more Southern type of lake. “Beaver Lake does not fish like the lakes at home; I am more use to river systems (TVA),” Mabrey said. “Our water is normally not this clear. I want to learn more about fishing clear-water reservoirs because I think it’s imperative to consistently finish at the top.”
While no angler will give away his secret lure or provide information that would benefit his competitors, Mabrey said that one rod in his boat would be rigged with a 6-inch YUM Houdini Worm in green pumpkin/purple flake on a BOOYAH 1/4-ounce Round Ball Head. He said he’s been using this rig to find fish on this type of reservoir.
Just like last year, the water level on Beaver Lake is high and rising. Both river arms are extremely muddy. The main lake area is stained but the lower end by the dam is clear.
“Normally in rising water conditions, the fish will go up with the water,” Mabrey said, “but this year they didn’t seem to go up to the bank. The fish seem to be located in the flood brush on the old lake bank.”
If conditions are right, Mabrey will get to cast his favorite bait -- a Heddon Super Spook in a shad pattern. As of Wednesday night, he also plans to fish some with a YUM Houdini Shad; however, boat draw will be a factor in his decision of location and lure.
The high, rising water levels of Beaver Lake mirrors the exact conditions anglers faced in this tournament last year. For Mabrey, he is hoping for the same results -- a top ten finish.
For more information or to book a trip with Brad, go to www.bradwiegmann.com