Shore/boat Ramp Fishing

[astaf]

I dont own a boat so I am relegated to fishing the boat docks/ramps and shore fishing, but a lot of the ponds and lakes in my area are surrounded by houses and the access to the them is slim.

The veggitation in the areas that I fish is underwater grass and reeds where if I throw out a sinking crank it will grab grass, even if it only sinks 3in-5in. There are some lilly pads around the boating ramps where ive used frogs with some success and texas rigged worms also to some success, but other than those two I havn't had much luck. Other spots I fish is just open water that I cast out in with no structure to it really, im not sure what the pond floor is made up of or the depth, but from what I can assume is its got a steady drop to it, with patches of grass, and the water is murkey.

Any pointers on what I should do?

[dulouz]

You could also try texas rigged twisters and tubes when there is a lot of vegitation. You can also drag them across the top of the slop or toss them into open pockets. Work your way around the pond, casting paralell to the shore and focus on any irregularities in the shore line. You could also add some structure to the pond yourself, if the owner is ok with it.

You might also think about finding something to get you out on the water. I just bought a small boat that is just enough to get out on the water. I have a friend with one of those molded bass buddy boats, another has an inflatable raft. Then there is canoes, kayaks, etc. You don't have to spend a lot to get on the water.

[Fishes in trees]

Get creative son. Subdivision lakes surrounded by houses have owners. Some of those owners will have boats. Find out who those people are and charm them into using their boats. For the warmer months, a belly boat is a good option. Seek out lakes that people keep boats on and get permission to fish there and use their boats.

It isn't rocket science, think of it as a creative use of your people skills.

[Fishes in trees]

Get creative son. Subdivision lakes surrounded by houses have owners. Some of those owners will have boats. Find out who those people are and charm them into using their boats. For the warmer months, a belly boat is a good option. Seek out lakes that people keep boats on and get permission to fish there and use their boats.

It isn't rocket science, think of it as a creative use of your people skills.

[Crestliner2008]

It seems that if you pursue fishing this lake, that your options are rather limited. You don't have access to much structure per say, so you need try different presentations in the areas you do have access to. The previous suggestion is a great one btw....get to know the folks on the lake. Try to get their permission to fish from their docks or shorelines.

Boat launches and piers are great places for fish to congregate on. The water is constantly being stirred up and this, in turn, attracts bait fish and ultimately predators. However, if the activity is "intense" during the day, you might want to consider dawn and dusk for your fishing. Less boat and people traffic. Even night fishing may prove to be your best alternative.

Stick with the slow, finesse presentations. You have little choice. You need to "sieve" the area thoroughly and keep your bait in the strike zone for as long as possible. Finesse soft plastics are the way to go in that situation. Try a 7" Senko texas rigged or a Sweet Beaver. You can also use a drop shot from shore, casting to the drop off or weed edge. There are lots of proven finesse options. Good Luck!

[dulouz]

I will sometimes fish from a paddle boat as well...