By Wendel Wilson
Russell is stained in the creeks and clear on the main lake. It’s at normal pool, and the water temp is ranging from the low to high 60s.
Bass: The largemouth bite is good right now, with fish either on the beds or coming off them. The best bite is early in the morning. A fluke fished on long shallow points will draw strikes. The herring spawn should begin any day now, and some topwater could result, although the fluke or a swimbait will also produce. Spotted bass are wide open. A productive pattern is on shallow sloping banks. Fish a 1/8-ounce jig head with a Baby Fluke.
Crappie: There are still fish in all stages of the spawn. Minnows fished in 2 feet of water around wood cover are producing a lot of fish. There is also a good trolling bite for prespawn and postspawn fish. We caught a 2-pounder recently. Troll in 8 to 10 feet of water near the spawning areas. Electric chicken and purple shiner colors have been good. This trolling bite should last through May.
Stripers: Striper fishing has been tough. The fish are scattered, and the best way to catch them is to cover a lot of water. Pull herring over main-lake points and keep moving.
Wendel Wilson
Wilson’s Guide Service
(706) 283-3336