Howell Pond Fishing near Midland City, Alabama

• Overview

  The Dale County entry here is Howell Pond, in Alabama. The country here is scrub and brush. Small at around 4 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. It is one of the smaller waters we list in Dale County. Midland City lies 2.3 miles from the water. The nearest city of size is Columbus, 84 miles away. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Howell Pond

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Fish reported in the area, according to open records, include largemouth bass, redbreast sunfish and blackbanded darter. That is what has been logged nearby, not a stocking list, so check local rules before you plan around any one species. On Howell Pond that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between 48°F in January and 81°F in July. Every month fishes, though midsummer narrows the useful hours. October and November give a second good stretch as it cools. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Howell Pond runs to that rhythm year in and year out.

• Tackle & Baits

  Who may fish here is not settled in anything we hold. Expect a half a mile walk in from where the car goes. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Kelly Lake, 2.2 miles away, makes the obvious fallback. Rules at Howell Pond are worth checking on the day.