I don't know about you, but my wife and I are more than ready for spring, and its just around the corner! (We hope) The thunderstorm and warming air that we've had the last couple days have us eager to get outside, trade heavy coats for light jackets, and embrace the fresh energy of a new season. There’s something about this time of year that feels like a reset—a chance to shake off winter and dive into new adventures.
Still, a recent snowfall transported us back to childhood, reminding us of simpler times. Without hesitation, we bundled up and built a snowman, laughing as we shaped the snow just like we did as kids. It was a brief, unexpected moment of nostalgia, a reminder to enjoy the present.
Now, as the last traces of winter fade, we’re looking ahead. The open water, blooming flowers, and warm afternoons are calling. Spring, we’re ready for you!
A couple weeks ago Valerie's sister and brother and their better halves called and wanted to come down and stay (they had never seen the lodge) they wanted to do dinner, drinks and they informed us that Elvis was performing just up the street and we could all go see him. We told them that sounded fun and that if they were lucky, they might get to meet him because he was staying here at the Lake Lodge! We went to the show and got our picture with Elvis!

Last weekend, I had the chance to attend the Albers Marine Fishing & Outdoor Show, in Pittsburg, KS—a small, family-oriented event that perfectly captures the heart of our fishing community. Unlike the massive expos where you can get lost in the crowd, this show had a welcoming, laid-back feel, making it easy to catch up with old friends, swap stories, and talk about what we all love most—fishing.
One of the highlights was getting to spend time with Casey Scanlon, a great angler and all-around good guy. He gave a great seminar on how to break down a lake while practicing for an event. We talked fishing, shared a few laughs, and enjoyed just being in an environment filled with people who share the same passion.
But the real thrill of the weekend was getting to hang out with one of my heroes, a true legend in the sport—Rick Clunn. If there were a Mount Rushmore of fishing, his face would be carved in stone. His knowledge, experience, and approach to the sport are second to none, and every conversation with him is an opportunity to learn.
Events like this remind me why I love being part of the fishing world and owning this Lodge. It’s not just about the gear, the techniques, or even the competition—it’s about the people, the camaraderie, and the shared experiences that bring us all together. The Albers Marine show was proof that the fishing community is as strong as ever, and I’m already looking forward to the next year.

If you have been following along with the saga that is my boat lower unit, you know that I basically missed all of the November, December and January fishing. It stinks because I really enjoy winter fishing! Remember, I trashed my lower unit at the BASS Nation regional in Muskogee last April. Got a new one and then in October it started knocking and turned out to be a bent prop shaft. Sent it in under warranty, and while in transit to OBR, the shipping company lost it, long story short, they found it, fixed it and only charged me $600 to fix my "under warranty" lower unit! (said I bent the prop shaft, without taking any chucks out of the lower unit or prop)
So, I just got out yesterday and actually caught the first fish of 2025 about 29 days later than previous years. It wasn't a big one but it felt good! And I scoped it up!!

Grand Lake, Oklahoma, Tournament Results, Lake Level, Area Info
Fishing has been pretty darn good. There has really only been one trail holding tourneys, Grand Lake Winter Jackpots. They have been holding them every Saturday for the last couple months and it has been taking 20Lb to 25LB consistently to win. As you would expect, they are catching them for the most part on A-Rigs, Minnow Shakin and Jerk baits. I've heard bluffs, long tapering points and 45 degree banks. You just have to find them!
Lake level is 742.1 and the water temps are all in the mid 40's. Lake is stained to clear and most ramps are open, some had ice last week.
Lodging Grand Lake Oklahoma for upcoming events
If outlooking to book, we have 10 rooms and fill up pretty quickly. Need to call early.
February:
BFL - 2/8 - No rooms available on the 7th
Oklahoma BASS Nation - 2/28-3/2 - 3 rooms available Friday and Saturday, 4 more available for just Friday
March:
MLF College - 3/7-3/8 - 5 rooms available the 7th and 8th, 2 more available just the 7th
Nichols Marine - 3/9 - 5 rooms available the 7th and 8th
Anglers in Action - 3/15 - 5 rooms available the 14th and 15th
3/22 - full
Tulsa Southside, Future Bass, Solo Casters - 3/29 - 8 rooms available
To Book: www.thelakelodgegrandlake.com or call 918-314-9968
Also check out our local podcast the Idle Zone Syndicate, Tuesday nights, 7pm central
Come visit us!
Jon and Valerie
The Lake Lodge at Grand Lake O' the Cherokees
To subscribe to this Blog and receive other Lake Lodge info, complete the form below.
Comments