Fishing Harris Lake in Pike County, Alabama

• Overview

  Harris Lake sits in Pike County, out in Alabama. Height above sea level is 390 feet. About 21 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Nearest town is Brundidge, 5.1 miles off. Clio lies 12 miles off, Jack another 13 miles. Others close at hand: Burke Ponds at 5.5 miles, Barrs Pond 9.6 miles away, Whiteheads Pond at 11 miles, Pearsons Pond 12 miles away and Prices Ponds at 12 miles. The county line runs close by, so rules can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Harris Lake

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Records collected within a few miles name blackbanded darter, choctawhatchee darter and gulf darter. Records show what people reported, not what is stocked. Harris Lake fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 80°F, the coldest about 47°F. There is no frozen season to plan round. The first and last hours carry the summer; the middle is slow. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. It holds true on Harris Lake more years than not. A rising level after rain switches things on for a day or two.

• Tackle & Baits

  The access position is unclear from public sources. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. A light spinning outfit with a small box of lures and some bait covers most of what swims here. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Some stretches are reserved and marked as such on the ground. Should this one be busy, Burke Ponds is 5.5 miles off. Check the current arrangement for Harris Lake.