February is walleye time on Norris Lake—big walleye.
Many fishermen reported catching walleye last month and it will get even better in February. According to the Moon Phase Calendar, the full moon this month in Maynardville will be on Sunday, Feb. 9 at 2:33 a.m. In case you did not know, three days before and three days after the full moon are typically the best days to fish in any month.
The next best time to fish in February will be around the new moon on the 23rd, again, three days before and three days after. The new moon should be especially good if we have warming weather around that time.
Here is another tidbit to help you catch not just walleye, but any species: Knowing the exact time the moon rises and sets will put extra fish in your boat. Make sure you are fishing on a proven spot during these times and see for yourself how many times you hook a fish within minutes of the rising or setting moon.
Also, don’t be afraid to try trolling for walleye in the Clinch River headwaters in February at night. Yes, I said at night—if you don’t believe me, try taking a ride up to the head of the Clinch River on a warm February night and see how many boats you see between the Beech Grove Boat Ramp and Hwy 32 at Indian Creek.
Bass should be hitting crankbaits in any stained or muddy water you can find from mid-lake to Big Sycamore Creek. They should also hit crankbaits in an any other large creek, such as Lost Creek. Red crankbaits, like Bandit 200 series, Spro Little John, or Spro Rock Crawler, can be very effective in February. Crappie fishing should also be good in Lost Creek and Big Sycamore Creek.
Good Fishin’!