Mountain lake is perfect setting for fishing this month
For guide Sam Jones, there is no better time and place for family fishing fun than June on Lake Jocassee in South Carolina’s Upstate. School is out, the deep-summer heat is still over the horizon and there is no prettier setting than the deep, clear lake in the mountains.
“June is a good time for catching some of Lake Jocassee’s big rainbow and brown trout,” said Jones (864-280-9056). “The weather and water have warmed up, making for some great family fishing outings. There is nothing like watching the smiles on everyone’s face once the fight with a big fish is over.”
Jones, from Greenville, S.C., grew up fishing for trout in streams and rivers with his grandfather. He has been fishing for trout on Lake Jocassee for more than 30 years. He said that by June, trout will be holding in the cooler water created by a thermocline about 80 to 120 feet deep, and they will hold at those depths right on into late fall.
“Trolling 60 to 120 feet deep using downriggers is the best way to get them in the boat,” Jones said. “Some of my favorite lures to troll with are silver or gold Sutton spoons and Doctor spoons. Apex lures and Rapala lures in shad and trout patterns are always a good choice, too. Large minnows trolled or drifted will also produce some good fish.”
