Quiet Waters-Big Rewards -Table Rock Lake Fishing

Bass Fishing on Table Rock Lake in November

When the Ozarks settle into November, Table Rock Lake fishing takes on a quiet, reflective beauty. Morning mist drifts across the coves, the hills glow copper and gold, and the only sounds are the gulls and the hum of an outboard motor. For those who know the lake well, this is one of the most rewarding months to fish—when the crowds are gone, the bass are hungry, and the water belongs to you.

Cool Mornings, Hot Bite

The lake’s surface temperature slips into the high-50s, nudging bass from their summer haunts toward steeper banks and deeper pockets where shad congregate. It’s a change that rewards anglers who slow down and think strategically. The air may be crisp, but the bite can still be fiery.

Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass all feed heavily before winter. Early in the day, they chase bait along main-lake points and the mouths of creeks. By afternoon, when the sun warms the rocks, they slide deeper and hold tight to structure.

Patterns That Pay Off

Start the morning with motion. A suspending jerkbait or spinnerbait worked near schooling shad can draw aggressive strikes. As the day brightens, switch to finesse—Ned rigs, drop-shots, or finesse jigs along ledges and transitions from gravel to rock.

When the lake is glass-calm, don’t put away your topwater. A subtle walking bait can tempt surface-feeding spotted bass even on chilly mornings. Keep colors natural—shad, green pumpkin, or translucent silver match the lake’s clear water perfectly.

Best Places to Try

The James River Arm, Long Creek, and areas around Kimberling City consistently hold late-fall fish. Use electronics to locate shad clouds, then position your boat just outside the bait. The most successful November anglers move deliberately, fish patiently, and let the lake’s rhythm guide them.

Weather Wisdom

November in the Ozarks is a month of contrasts—bluebird skies one day, mist and wind the next. Overcast days often deliver the steadiest bite, especially after a mild warming trend. Dress in layers, keep a thermos of coffee handy, and don’t rush. The lake feels timeless this time of year, and so should you.

Late-Fall How-To: Reading the Lake

• Follow the Bait. Shad schools are your compass—wherever they drift, bass won’t be far behind

• Target Structure. Focus on bluff ends, ledges, and submerged timber in 15–30 feet of water

• Work with the Weather. Cloud cover or a light breeze keeps bass active longer

• Time It Right. The afternoon sun often sparks a short but fierce bite near rocky points

• Stay Subtle. Table Rock’s clear water demands lighter line and quiet boat control

Key Lures: Suspended jerkbait, ¼-oz finesse jig, Ned rig, 3” swimbait, spinnerbait

Colors: Shad, green pumpkin, smoke, silver flake.