Below dam advice

I know this is supposed to be for crappie fishing, but I have a question about fishing below the dams and I feel like you all give good advice. I’m going to Pickwick tomorrow and thought about fishing for striper/white bass below Wilson dam. By the way, I struck out on Guntersville today looking for crappie. I saw where they are pulling a lot of water in anticipation of rains coming from hurricane/tropical storm Florence remnants. Does this mean it would not be safe to approach the dams looking for stripers? I have fished below Wheeler when they were pulling about 35,000 while in my jon boat safely (but had to be careful of current stream). Looks like they plan to double that tomorrow at Wilson dam. Any advice?


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IMO it would be too dangerous. I've seen people fishing below Guntersville when some of the flood gates are open but one mistake or miscue could cost you your life. No fish is worth risking that for.

I agree with FF. It's just too much especially in a flat bottom, that tail race below Wilson really gets going when they are pulling water like that.

So, we went and checked it out today. My daughter goes to school over there. It was her first time in the new boat (not using the flat bottom anymore). We took your advice and stayed pretty far away from the dam. We did ease up within a few hundred yards, but not too close. Several people were running up with gas motors, then drifting back to the first bridge. Rinse. Repeat. We felt more comfortable in one of the branches off to the left, but only caught a couple pound buffalo. New boat does not equal knowing how to fish. Maybe I’m too impatient, but I’m ready to start putting some in the live well. I guess I just need to keep paying my dues. Good thing I enjoy being on the water, even if they aren’t biting. Thanks for the advice. I feel like you guys have a lot more experience and appreciate you being willing to share. Might have kept me out of trouble today.


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If you're careful it's fine fishing below most dams. You are correct having a boat does not mean coolers of fish. Don't forget crappie move up below dams to..

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