Is it just me, or is the fishing at Smith Mountain really bad right now? I just got back from a few days with the fam on the lake. Fished every morning & evening, some in between, and some night fishing for catfish with smelly stuff that should've brought em. Fished shoreline structure & docks, fished deep ledges and troughs . . . Dad caught A largemouth, I caught A smallmouth and a few little panfish. Everyone we talked to said their luck was equally inspiring. Is anybody catching fish in Smith Mountain?

Even without a full stringer, the trip was great. The lake was still beautiful, my family was still a lot of fun, and Max the Dog had the time of his life. I don't think he's completely dry yet!

August fishing on the lake can be tough. When I fish at the lake this time of year, it's usually exclusively after 10 pm. I've had some good luck with small black rubber works with curly tails fished main point docks and rip rap. Some loud chuggers also do the ticket. If you want to catch fish now, downsize (line size and lure size) and pay attention to what is working and duplicate in various areas on the lake. I've also caught some pretty nice catfish/smallmouth/striper after midnight slow trolling live or dead shad.

got a buddy that pounds it all year day and night and he gave up about 2-3 weeks ago. should turn on aftern this rain big time.

You know, it's always "You should've been here last week!" or something like that . . .