Jay Yelas – Cup Practice Finished

I have spent the last 3 days practicing for the Forrest Wood Cup on Lake Ouachita in Hot Springs, AR. There is a heavy emphasis on the “hot” in Hot Springs. Daytime highs of 104 with a heat index over 110. Water temp runs 89-93.

I see the bite as being very similar to the 2007 Cup. There are a lot of ways to catch them, but the fishing is slow. That is to say you can do the right thing for 2 hours and not get a bite.

The lake has a lot more bass in it now than it did in 07, so the weights will be higher. Look for a winning weight of 50-55#.

I found fish deep (20-25′) and shallow. The bream are spawning, and they will be a factor. The majority are deep, and that is where the winner will catch most of his fish. Brushpiles are a huge deal here, and I know several good ones.

I like my chances here. If the Lord sends some extra big bites my way, I could do quite well. for the Forrest Wood Cup!