The onset of cooler weather is a welcome change for Alabama fishermen. It means fall fishing is ON! The lakes of the Alabama Bass Trail are known as fertile fishing grounds, and fall is a popular time to reel in some big ones. Cooler weather encourages bass and other species to feed in preparation for the coming winter. With the variety of lakes, habitat and species along the trail, fall fishing gives anglers plenty of options for excitement on the water.

The headwaters of Pickwick are known as one of the best smallmouth havens around, and you’ll find plenty of both small and largemouth moving into shallow waters as the cooler days of fall arrive.  For both numbers and size of bass, Lake Guntersville is hard to beat. On Smith Lake, the spotted bass will be feeding frenetically. On Neely Henry and Weiss Lake, the crappie are abundant and can be found moving toward ledges and into shallower waters.

The options go on and on. With thirteen lakes and an enormous diversity of species, the possibilities for fall fishing can seem endless. That’s just one of reasons you’ll want to consider going with one of the many experienced guides on our lakes. They know what’s biting where and can put you on the fish! Here are some things to consider when thinking about choosing a guide.

Check out these suggested itineraries to add off-the-water fun to your trip. Motorsports, music, barbeque and beer are just some of the things this state is known for. There are also amazing state parks dotting the map, from north to south.

It’s time now to put a fabulous fall fishing trip on your calendar. Take to the Alabama Bass Trail for a trip to remember.