Hot Spot of the Week: The fall cool down has begun and the fish like it too! Early morning surface water temperatures in the seventies are bringing more hits from bass and other game fish than in previous weeks. Spotted bass are hitting top water lures in boat basins and rip-rap points at dawn. Throughout the day, both largemouth and spots are near docks, boat ramps and drop offs. White perch fishing is also on the upswing with some anglers catching 100 or more on Sabiki rigs. Best places to fish are the islands north of the State Park and the creek channels in Mountain and Reed Creeks. Some striper and hybrid activity is occurring upriver on live bait and on trolled A-rigs.

Lake Norman’s water level is about 6.3 feet below full pond and 4.4 feet below full on Mountain Island Lake. The surface water temperature is in the high seventies and low eighties in waters not affected by power generation.


Photo courtesy of Capt. Gus
Darin Workman of Gainesville, GA holds a pair of spotted bass caught on the same lure.



BOAT SAFETY & CRIME PREVENTION:



According to Sgt.George W. Brinzey of the Cornelius, NC Lake Patrol, “Marine theft is on the increase and usually occurs when relatively unskilled young amateurs strike where they find an easy opportunity.

We can defend ourselves against this type of crime by becoming security conscious and by practicing common sense crime prevention measures.”

Sgt. Brinzey adds, “I think it’s fair to say that many of us look to the waters of Lake Norman as a destination for family, fun, and fishing. Unfortunately, there are those who look at this body of water for other interests. Let’s face it; there really is no difference between land and water to a thief who knows his way around the lake.”

“The large majority of crimes we see on Lake Norman are crimes of opportunity. In theory, there are three things a criminal needs to commit a crime: the desire to commit, the ability to carry out the action, and the opportunity. In reality, the only thing we can take away from the equation is the opportunity. Making your vessel, dock and home a hard target will greatly reduce the desire to commit a crime to your property.”

Below are a few tips on marine theft prevention that will help to protect your investment:



* Remove valuables, including electronics, trolling motor, fishing tackle, binoculars and water sports equipment.
* Remove the key from the ignition and put in a safe place away from the boat.
* Turn the battery switch to the off position.
* Purchase a locking battery switch or install a hidden kill switch.
* Install a propeller locking device.
* Consider a boat alarm system. Marine systems are inexpensive and easy to install.
* If the boat is stored on a lift, turn the breaker off at the house.
* Lock doors and hatches.
* Replace spring-latch locks with deadbolt locks or strong hasps and padlocks.
* Use locks and dowel sticks to secure sliding windows. Keep draperies closed.
* Replace your old gas cap with one that locks.
* Make sure dock lockers are secure.
* Choose a reputable marina or storage facility - one with security and good lighting.
* If you are leaving your boat for long periods, ensure that someone checks on it periodically.
* Do not leave important documents, papers, boat registration and insurance policies on board when vessel is not being used.
* Boats on trailers should be kept in a secured area, with a high quality trailer hitch lock attached. In addition, affix a lock to one or more wheels and secure the spare tire.
* Remove any “For Sale” signs from the boat.

Upcoming Events:
The 6^th Annual Lake Norman Wildlife Oyster and Shrimp Festival – The public is invited to this annual event at 5 p.m. on Oct. 10^th at Langtree of Lake Norman, Exit 31, Mooresville, NC. Tickets are available at www.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit the organization's new website at www.LNWC.org.

Tips from Capt. Gus: Side-arm casts allow the fishing lure to travel horizontally and land in the water quieter than one pitched overhand and lobbed up high in the air.


Capt. Gus Gustafson of Lake Norman Ventures, Inc. is an Outdoor Columnist and a full time Professional Fishing Guide on Lake Norman, NC. Visit his website www.Fishingwithgus.com or call 704-617-6812.