Recently I've started fishing the local Haw River at different spots and the adjoining creeks, such as the Great Alamance Creek. And when I went looking for tips on shallow water fishing, and even specifically the Haw, I came up with little. So I've been exploring and fishing and experimenting different spots along the river, trying to learn about this local resource. While fishing in rivers is still new to me and I have plenty of room to perfect my performance, here are some of the things I have noticed that may come in handy for those who fish the Haw. And it's likely that some of the things here apply to other small/shallow water bodies as well.
Fish the pools, not the main current
While trout may enjoy the main current of a stream or river, many fish simply do not. Target calmer areas of the water made by rocks or sandbars. Those calm pools and eddy's will generally house more fish. This is especially true when the faster moving water, as is the case with the Haw, is particularly shallow and does not allow bigger fish to swim in those areas.
Try smaller lures
When fishing the shallower water, a surface lure can do the trick. I like to use a Heddon Teeny Torpedo and I catch decent brim. The smaller fish are especially fun on light tackle.
Another lure I like to use is a minnow with a spinner blade, such as Mepps Comet. This will especially attract the smaller fish, such as brim or pumpkinseed.
One thing I would tell you? Give fly fishing a try on smaller rivers, it's a blast.
Different spots for different fish
May sound a little obvious but hear me out. Depending on what you want to catch, how much you want to catch, or in some cases WHO you bring with you (such as little ones) you need to try different spots to suit your desires or audience. Smaller pools generally house the brim, which are fun for fishing newcomers and kids especially. Those fish are fun, don't discount them. AND, it provides an experience different than a cliche lake or pond to take new fisherman to (not saying in any way lakes or ponds is bad, they're a blast, it's just different than the norm).
If there are islands in the river, try the downstream side where there is generally a much bigger area of calm water. That is where you will find fish such as bass or catfish.
If there is a slower moving creek (or if the river splits) with features such as big rocks or logs, try in those areas because bass be in the slower moving water and cover.
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| Caught this Pumpkinseed on a minnow jig |
