Lake Nockamixon Fish Habitat Structures

[PhatBass]

Hello Folks,

 

I’m looking over a DCNR map of Lake Nockamixon Fish Habitat Structures.

It show the placement of the structures with GPS coordinates.

 

Porcupine Cribs

Rock Rubble Humps etc

 

For the wooden “Porcupine Cribs”, anyone know the life expectancy of these structures?

I’m sure they didn’t use pressure treated wood.    

Looks like most were deployed around 2005-2008 but some are from the late 1990s.

 

Anyone find these & fish them?

Are they productive or a waste of time?

 

I've attached the map here.

 

thanks

Lake Nockamixon Fish Habitat Structures.pdf

[hawghunters]

 

I've fished them on other lakes, but they are really hard to pinpoint unless you have a good fish finder, which I don't. The way I've used them is by fishing stretches of water that I know has them. The fish use the structure, but don't stay hunkered down all day. The likely move out of the structure to feed. I like to fish points that have them on it, because I know the fish should be there somewhere. I was at a lake this winter that was half drained and had some of the structures in it. The structures were still looking okay, and looked fishy to me. 

[Bruce424]

no maps that I know of. the only structure or coverthat I know of is the ones that I see above water which would be the wooden pillars sticking out of the ground or the wooden skids that are anchored (turtle habitat). all of the cover is maybe 20 yards from the shore. Maybe use google earth and zoom in.

[susky killer]

I have fished them with limited success.  A friend of mine did well on a stretch of them 2 summers ago but nothing on them last year.  

[HardcoreBassin]

I've been researching the lake because I'm planning on making that my "home lake" next year, so I'm trying to learn as much as possible before I hit the water.  From what I've read/heard, the pilings they put in are EXTREMELY high pressure spots.  I'm sure there are fish on them, but you'll need to finesse the hell out of them.  But that is just my opinion from the research I've been doing.  We all know that research is completely different than real life situations.

 

- Dale

[Felix77]

One of my best friends lives near that lake.  Definitely peaked my interest.  we try to fish it every year.

[A-Jay]

I've been researching the lake because I'm planning on making that my "home lake" next year, so I'm trying to learn as much as possible before I hit the water.  From what I've read/heard, the pilings they put in are EXTREMELY high pressure spots.  I'm sure there are fish on them, but you'll need to finesse the hell out of them.  But that is just my opinion from the research I've been doing.  We all know that research is completely different than real life situations.

 

- Dale

 

I have never fished this particular body of water.  But after some years of angling and being realistic regarding human behavior, I'll add this.  The ability to "research" the places we fish is no doubt helpful, in many ways.  However, in this case, it's not.  The maps that display sub-surface cover (with exact coordinates mind you) might as well be putting up a big sign that says FISH HERE.  They are making it very easy - so anglers who don't have the time to look for spots on their own (or don't want to) Will fish them - all of them, every trip.  Count on it.  This will change how the fish act there - especially bigger fish - usually the better fish will avoid the Intrusion.

 

 Instead I'd recommend using your ability to research lakes to help find a healthy fertile eco system with a good balance of bait and bass. Then look for your season spots as directed by contours, structure, funnels and prevailing wind direction and make a plan of attack. Next get out on the water and put that plan into action.  This is what the anglers that make that "Milk Run" to hit all the publicized spots don't or are unwilling to do.

 

This is a great way to help fuel your enthusiasm with the right kind of knowledge.  Learning how to do this can and usually will enable you to fish all types of places, whether they are popular or not.  I really do prefer fishing places that offer very restricted access or have no popularity at all.  Neither of these things have any bearing on what the bass population is - I'll find that out myself.  And that is one of the things I love most about this sport.

 

Finally, some of my local waters have spots that are, lets say "local Knowledge", and I do fish them occasionally.  But without fail, any "good" fish I get off these spots, are Taken At Night.

Good Luck

 

A-Jay

[HardcoreBassin]

I have never fished this particular body of water.  But after some years of angling and being realistic regarding human behavior, I'll add this.  The ability to "research" the places we fish is no doubt helpful, in many ways.  However, in this case, it's not.  The maps that display sub-surface cover (with exact coordinates mind you) might as well be putting up a big sign that says FISH HERE.  They are making it very easy - so anglers who don't have the time to look for spots on their own (or don't want to) Will fish them - all of them, every trip.  Count on it.  This will change how the fish act there - especially bigger fish - usually the better fish will avoid the Intrusion.

 

 Instead I'd recommend using your ability to research lakes to help find a healthy fertile eco system with a good balance of bait and bass. Then look for your season spots as directed by contours, structure, funnels and prevailing wind direction and make a plan of attack. Next get out on the water and put that plan into action.  This is what the anglers that make that "Milk Run" to hit all the publicized spots don't or are unwilling to do.

 

This is a great way to help fuel your enthusiasm with the right kind of knowledge.  Learning how to do this can and usually will enable you to fish all types of places, whether they are popular or not.  I really do prefer fishing places that offer very restricted access or have no popularity at all.  Neither of these things have any bearing on what the bass population is - I'll find that out myself.  And that is one of the things I love most about this sport.

 

Finally, some of my local waters have spots that are, lets say "local Knowledge", and I do fish them occasionally.  But without fail, any "good" fish I get off these spots, are Taken At Night.

Good Luck

 

A-Jay

 

I'm really looking forward to learning this body of water.  You are absolutely right about putting a target on the man made structure by releasing coordinates.  They even went as far as a "How to Fish Lake Nockamixon" youtube video!  They specifically highlight where stretches of weedbeds grow and where man made structure is.  They actually took it a step further and recommend what types of lures to fish in those spots!! In looking and lake countour maps, I know to avoid the spots that are specifically marked for "man mad structure." 

 

The lake that I've fished for the past 10 years is a stagnant lake that was dug out, filled and stocked with fish.  I am hoping to learn A LOT while fishing Nockamixon, given that I have never religiously fished a lake with feeder creeks.

 

Great points that you made.  Thanks!

 

- Dale

[Felix77]

Have you seen this site?

 

http://www.delawarevalleyoutdoors.com/dvo-show/2010/4/12/how-to-fish-lake-nockamixon-dvd.html

[Megastink]

I fish Nock often, and I do target the deeper fish cribs. I catch good quality bass off of them. Not a lot of electronic-savvy guys on that lake.

[PhatBass]

I fish Nock often, and I do target the deeper fish cribs. I catch good quality bass off of them. Not a lot of electronic-savvy guys on that lake.

 

 

I spent 2014 split between Beltsville & The NOC with dismal results on both lakes.

I chalk it up to it being my first year fishing or I’m using the wrong boat! LOL

 

I didn’t get a chance to fish any of the cribs because I lost my garmin handheld while bike riding.

I did spend a lot of time watching where others were fishing & you would see the same boats in the same spots week after week.

Also while in the parking lot I made it a point of talking to whoever stood still long enough, trying to get insight.

 

I’d have to agree, folks don’t use their electronics & nobody I’ve talked to knew about the cribs.

 

Yes the pilings get heavy pressure mostly because people don’t have to think.  They know fish are "supposed to" relate to structure so as soon as they hit the water they beeline it for the pilings & 10 mins later they are off someplace else.

 

 

 

Another month until the Outdoor show @ Oaks PA!!

[cyclops2]

  Bass can be like horses.

 

You can lead them to where you want.

 

BUT

 

It does not mean they will keep coming back to have their jaws ripped open by a 60# test hard yanking goon.    Would you ?

[Megastink]

I spent 2014 split between Beltsville & The NOC with dismal results on both lakes.

I chalk it up to it being my first year fishing or I’m using the wrong boat! LOL

I didn’t get a chance to fish any of the cribs because I lost my garmin handheld while bike riding.

I did spend a lot of time watching where others were fishing & you would see the same boats in the same spots week after week.

Also while in the parking lot I made it a point of talking to whoever stood still long enough, trying to get insight.

I’d have to agree, folks don’t use their electronics & nobody I’ve talked to knew about the cribs.

Yes the pilings get heavy pressure mostly because people don’t have to think. They know fish are "supposed to" relate to structure so as soon as they hit the water they beeline it for the pilings & 10 mins later they are off someplace else.

Another month until the Outdoor show @ Oaks PA!!

Those are two tough lakes. But they're in there. I think they fish really deep. My best largies in Nock come out of 30ft.

[bassfanpa]

I have to jump in here.  I rarely ever post about the Nock, as it is a gem.  The majority of the cover planted by the PAF&BC is not necessarily in the best areas to target bass.  You need to fish seasonal patterns, as well as fish the moment on any given day.  The cribs are scattered in depths ranging from 6 to 34' of water.  Cribs can be productive IF...they are in close proximity to natural structure and in the correct depth at which the fish are relating to during that specific time.  It also helps to have bait nearby.  The majority of the cribs don't fall into this criteria.

 

With that being said, some of you have preconceived notions on the people who fish the lake regularly, and with success.  Most of the "sharpies" have side imaging and the latest electronics.  They are used frequently!  Unbeknownest to you...you may never see these people fishing a "spot" unless you are fortunate enough to sneak up on them during a tournament.  I frequently appear to be fishing something entirely different while an observer is nearby.  I have fished the lake prior to side imaging and found the majority of the offshore areas I focus on by dragging.  Electronics don't help me much anymore.  I can line up trees and depth and be on what I want very quickly.  Don't assume!  Small bodies of water require deception to protect areas.

 

If you are looking to better your excursions on the lake, fish with an open mind, take all of the conditions into your plan, and develop your strategy from there.  There are fish to be caught in all depths, at most times.  I would advise NOT to focus on 1 particular type of cover.  The DVD does give some areas, but there is vegetation around the entire lake.  That is the primary cover at any time if it is there.  Deeper spots are limited to several weeks each year, at most.  Water clarity and bait presence mean more that a few 2x4's.  I have never caught fish in 30'.  The thermocline doesn't set up that deep.  Use your electronics to determine where it is.  Your boat may be sitting in 30', but it is unlikely to catch 1 that deep.  Use basic, fundamental patterns, and put some time in.  It doesn't hurt if you are pretty good with a jig too!  Good luck!

[Dogmatic]

Oh I'd love to chime in...but I wont, just listen to Ajay, do your homework, and this, The Nock is the reason why I invested in good electronics.

[-David-]

For Nockamixon do you guys recommend Side scan over Down scan? I'm looking to upgrade my FF and this is the one question that has me stumped.

[Dogmatic]

For Nockamixon do you guys recommend Side scan over Down scan? I'm looking to upgrade my FF and this is the one question that has me stumped.

How much money are you willing to spend? Side scan is definitely better, but cost more. I have several small crafts, and have electronics to suit. I have a Down scan finder, and it suits my needs, especially for the Nock.

[-David-]

Thinking about maybe $500

[Dogmatic]

Plenty of options, essentially what I'm looking at too. The Humminbird Helix 5 KVD (edition) is what I think I'll settle on, after doing some research. But like I said there's plenty of options at that price point, especially if you are OK with used units.

[chrisdm4]

I fish from a kayak so i cant go to big on depth finders.  I have a hummingbird 2d scan right now and did great for me last year.  Thinking about going to down scan this year though.  Looking at this unit.

 

http://www.humminbird.com/Products/PiranhaMAX-197c-DI/ 

[PhatBass]

I’m waiting for it to warm up a little so I can install my new Sonarphone SP200.

 

http://sonarphone.mobi/

 

Will be pairing the Sonarphone with a new inexpensive Samsung Galaxy Tab4 7” tablet & a Ram mount. This will go in the cockpit & replace the Lowrance X-4.

Sonarphone now works with Navionics so you can have both running at the same time on a split screen.

 

http://www.navionics.com/en

 

Will be moving the Lowrance that came with the boat up to the bow & mount that transducer on the trolling motor.

 

 

[-David-]

I've used navionics on an iPad when returning off shore boats and bays and it really works great for charting but till now never knew about using the combo as a FF. Post up your impressions when installed.

What kind to boat?

[PhatBass]

I've used navionics on an iPad when returning off shore boats and bays and it really works great for charting but till now never knew about using the combo as a FF. Post up your impressions when installed.

What kind to boat?

 

Probably won’t get on the water until sometime in April. But will definitely be posting a follow-up. Especially if it helps put something other than water in the live well this year!

 

There are a couple dozen reviews on youtube, just search on sonarphone.

 

My Boat – 2013 Creatliner Storm 16 w/20hp Merc