Mick,

I would have went bigger and more visible (outside of looking for
clearer water). In muddy water I have good success with most dark
colors (black , black/blue, etc) and probably use Texas Craw colored
jigs most of the time. I usually will opt for a bigger craw trailer
with Chartreuse claws and a good rattle. Strike King Pro-Model Elite are
ok, except the rattles break off very easy. I have had good success
using All-Terrain's version, and have never lost a rattle.

When thinking of off colored water, I wouldn't say a bass would switch
to smell as their primary means of finding food, once they cannot see
well they will tuck into cover and use their lateral line (feel) first
to locate food, and then their vision to zero in.

Also, you could go with a Spinnerbait (same color schemes) with a big
colorado blade, a really good thumper. If you are stuck in those muddy
conditions, I would find cover and use those two baits more than
anything else. It doesn't mean it is the best solution, but it works
for me.

Good luck,

Chris

Mick Haberzetle wrote:
Hello all!

First of all, I wanted to say "thank you" to all who post here - your
informative and insightful messages have been a tremendous help to a novice
like me.

I had a chance on Monday to get out on a local reservoir and wet some lines
and I wonder if my technique for the given conditions could have been MUCH
better.

It was a very bright, sunny day and the temperature was about 92 degrees.
There was a southwesterly wind of about 10 miles an hour and the water was
heavily stained muddy brown - hard to see anything beyond first foot of
depth.

I spent most of the time fishing shady areas along the bank where there was
structure. I was in the shallow end of the reservoir, however, and in the
deepest parts it was probably only 10 feet deep.

I was using nightcrawlers, bee moths, and some Berkely fake nightcrawlers.
I tried a few spinners and a few jigs, but the muddiness of the water seemed
to convince me that scent was most important.

So, all of that said, what would the experts have done differently? I can't
wait to see the different approaches and I thank you all in advance for your
insight!

Best regards!
Mick