Bass fishing on Pickwick Lake in April is excellent. The fish are active. The weather is mild. The bite is strong.

Spring brings big changes to Pickwick Lake. The water warms. Bass move shallow. They begin spawning. This makes them easier to find and catch. Local anglers wait all year for this. April is peak time.

Why April Is the Best Month for Bass Fishing on Pickwick Lake

Bass are shallow and aggressive in April. They gather near grass beds, rocky points, and flats. Water temperatures usually hit 60 to 70°F. That’s the perfect range for spawning.

Male bass guard the nests. Females feed to recover. Both strike at baits without thinking much.

According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), April sees the highest catch rates of the year. In fact, anglers report 30–50 bites per day during peak days.

Best Time of Day to Fish for Bass in April

Early morning is best. Bass feed more in low light. From sunrise to 10 a.m., topwater lures work great.

Late afternoon also produces strong bites. Shadows return. Winds calm. Bass roam again.

Midday works too, especially after cold nights. Sunlight warms the water and wakes them up.

Where to Find Bass on Pickwick Lake in April

Pickwick Lake stretches across Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama. It’s part of the Tennessee River. That means current plays a big role.

Look for bass in these April hotspots:
– Mouths of creeks: Bass enter to spawn. Water is slightly warmer.
– Grass lines and flooded wood: These hold baitfish and provide cover.
– Shallow flats near deep water: Perfect for females moving in to spawn.
– Wilson Dam tailrace: Smallmouth bass stack here due to strong current.

Quote from local guide, Mike Holt:
“In April, you don’t have to chase them. They’re already where you’d fish anyway.”

Best Lures and Baits for April Bass

Bass in April hit hard. So use baits that stir a reaction.

Here’s what works best:
– Spinnerbaits – Great in murky or windy water.
– Texas-rigged soft plastics – Target bedding bass.
– Topwater lures – Use during warm mornings or near cover.
– Crankbaits – Cover water fast to find active fish.
– Jigs – Drag along rocks or docks. Mimic crawfish.

Live bait like minnows or nightcrawlers? Yes, they work. But artificial lures give better results.

Weather and Water Conditions in April

April brings changeable weather. Expect cool mornings, warm afternoons, and spring storms.

According to NOAA, average air temperature is 52°F to 74°F. Rainfall is about 4.6 inches for the month. Water levels rise from March rains.

Wind speeds average 7 to 10 mph. So wear layers and watch the forecast.

Tips from Locals: How to Catch More Bass in April

1. Fish slow after a cold front. Bass hug the bottom and don’t chase much.
2. Use natural colors in clear water. Green pumpkin and watermelon are favorites.
3. Try white or chartreuse in stained water. It helps bass see your bait better.
4. Pause often near the nest. That’s when bass usually strike.
5. Keep moving until you find them. Don’t waste time in empty spots.

Latest Stats About Pickwick Lake Fishing

– Average bass weight in spring: 3 to 5 pounds
– Record largemouth bass: 14.58 pounds
– Record smallmouth bass: 8.4 pounds
– Bass catch per trip (April): 12 to 25 fish, per TWRA

TWRA reports bass populations in Pickwick are stable and healthy. Stocking programs support both largemouth and smallmouth species.

Final Thoughts

April bass fishing on Pickwick Lake is a must. The fish are shallow. The bite is on. You don’t need fancy gear or deep spots. Just good timing, patience, and the right bait.

Fish hard. Stay safe. And enjoy the spring bite.