Lake Information for Little Bear Creek Reservoir

Little Bear Creek Reservoir is an infertile reservoir with clear water. During the summer months the reservoir stratifies and adequate oxygen levels are restricted to the top 18 feet, so anglers should avoid fishing in depths greater than this. Traditional bass baits such as; crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, and plastic worms all work well. REMEMBER to harvest all largemouth bass less than 13 inches in length. Larger and faster growing bass will be the result. Crappie are caught in brush tops or suspended above the old creek channel and can be enticed to bite jigs or minnows.

Stocking: Little Bear Creek Reservoir was stocked with 7,500 Florida strain largemouth bass in 1981 in an attempt to incorporate the Florida bass genetics into the population. During January of 2000, 15,600 channel catfish were stocked and during January of 2004, 15,636 more were stocked into the reservoir. No other stockings of fish have been done, but all species are reproducing successfully on their own. Sampling work in 2004-2005 revealed a bass population with a high percentage of 8-12 and 15-20 inch fish. Fish 20+ inches in length appear at average frequency. A weak 2002 year class seems to have reduced the percentage of 12-15 inch fish in the population, but a strong 2003 year class appears to be entering the fishery. Bass growth seems to be adequate and exploitation appears to be low.