January 9, 2026

By NOEoutdoors

 

Lake Allatoona is locked into its winter pattern right now. Water temps are sitting in the mid to upper 40s with some areas pushing low 50s during warmer stretches. Fishing pressure is lighter this time of year, which is a plus if you’re willing to slow down and fish smart. The bite is not fast, but it is consistent if you focus on the right areas and fish them correctly.

 

Below is a breakdown of what’s happening with bass, crappie, and stripers on Allatoona right now.

 

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Bass Report (Largemouth and Spots)

 

Bass are in a true winter setup. They are not roaming shallow and they are not chasing bait across flats. Most fish are holding on deeper structure tied to the river channel, creek channel swings, long points, and steeper banks close to deep water.

 

Spotted bass are still the most active species on the lake and are more willing to bite than largemouth right now. Largemouth are around, but they tend to be tighter to cover and slower to commit.

 

Key areas to focus on include main lake points, secondary points in major creeks, channel bends, and rocky banks that drop quickly into deeper water. Wind blowing into these areas helps and can turn a slow day into a productive one.

 

Slow moving baits are the deal this time of year. Jerkbaits, deeper running crankbaits, spinnerbaits slow rolled near the bottom, and finesse presentations all produce when fished patiently. Expect fewer bites, but better quality fish when you stay on the right structure.

 

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Crappie Report

 

January is one of the more consistent months for crappie on Allatoona if you fish deep. Crappie are holding along the river channel and in major creek mouths, usually suspended or set up along flats close to deep water.

 

Most fish are being caught in the 20 to 30 foot range, depending on weather patterns and water clarity. Electronics are a big help right now for locating schools and dialing in depth.

 

Slow trolling with small jigs has been productive, especially when covering water along channel edges. Once you find fish, it pays to make multiple passes through the area. Crappie are grouped up this time of year and tend to stay put unless conditions change.

 

Brighter jig colors with some contrast seem to show up better in winter water, especially after rain or wind muddies things up.

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Striper and Hybrid Bass Report

 

Stripers and hybrids are still being caught, but the bite is more dependent on weather and water conditions. Fish are feeding on larger bait and staying close to schools of baitfish.

 

Planer boards and freeline setups with larger bait have been producing best. Focus on clear water areas near creek mouths and main lake zones where bait is present. When the water muddies up, the bite slows and fish tend to spread out more.

 

Cold fronts will push stripers deeper and make them less aggressive, while stable weather can trigger feeding windows. Timing matters with these fish right now.

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Three Key Fishing Tips for January

 

1. Fish Deep First

Winter fish live deep. Start on river channels, points, and steep structure before even thinking about shallow water. You will waste less time and get on better quality fish.

 

2. Slow Everything Down

Cold water equals slow fish. Slower retrieves, slower trolling speeds, and longer pauses get more bites than fast moving presentations.

 

3. Watch the Weather

Small changes in temperature, wind, and rain make a big difference this time of year. A few warmer days can push fish slightly shallower, while a cold front will push them right back to the bottom.

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Final Take:

January fishing on Lake Allatoona is all about patience and precision. The fish are there and they are catchable, but you have to fish deliberately and stay focused on deep structure. Slow down, trust your electronics, and don’t chase shallow water too early.