When there is a combination of large fields of emergent cover, like lily pads and a variety of submerging cover, like eel grass, hydriilla, and coon tail grass, things can look really good for bass fishing. When you couple this with good water quality, and a big run of threadfin shad, you are looking at the glory hole.
     We have seen lots of quality bass taken this spring and you can expect the trend to continue for May.

     Rapala and Devils Horse are great baits real early. Also 3/8oz spinner baits are accounting for the same good catches. But, plastic worms and frogs allow you to penetrate the mass of cover better and is probably the best bait. Speed worms are wildly popular and are winning local tournaments every week.

     Pan fish will explode in May. The shell beds on the west side of Lake Woodruff will harbor spawning shell cracker. Bluegill, as well, will be spawning all over the lake. Periods of spawn will last 20 days each month. This is the time to “pitch” the banks of Norris Dead River with live crickets or 1/32 oz beetle spins. Large bluegill can be taken this way. Use the same method in the lakes by pitching to the edge of the cover line.

     Many fishermen that observe catch and release for bass are not hesitant to keep a big mess of bluegill for the table fare. With a big limit of 50, it is easy to feed a lot of folk. They fry up pretty nice.

     Check with local camps for updated fishing reports. They see the catches coming in daily, and can point you in the right direction. Ask for your free fishing map at Highland Park Fish Camp.