So they arent always right on the bank in the spring? You can put your free-lines out and crusie the bays and mid to backs of creeks to catch these bad boys? I have been out once a week for the last 2 months and I still havnt been rewarded with a silver king.

You sound like you've been fishing in Fl. before. I was born there and still go back to fish about 5 times a year in the surrounding Tampa area but I've lived up in Ga. & N.C. for past 31 years. Well I did go down for a couple of years and opened another office in Tampa but it was just like fishing. If they're biting one is enough if they're not you don't even need one :-) Have a great coming week.

I've been doing this for about three years now and the one thing I do know is that you can't use the word "always" when talking about these fish. Especially in the past 18 months or so. It seems since the lake filled from the drought so quickly that there has not been a typical pattern yet. Particularly this winter, up until last LSC tx in March, I had not caught a fish since Thanksgiving.

These sights are great for improving your chances, but I think the best way to sharpen your skills Is to go out with one of the guides who is willing to provide instruction or to join one of the excellent striper clubs in the area. You can defer guide costs by going in with one or 2 other folks. This way it really isn't much more expensive than taking out your own boat.

You can join a local club for as little as $5.00 a month. You will meet some of the finest fishermen on the Lake and get an opportunity to learn from them at the meetings (once a month) or fish in the monthly tournaments. You will also make some great friends and then be able to pick up the phone and invite them to fish with you. After you get to know some of these folks you may even be able to call friends on the water while you're out on the water and find out what's happening.

Anyone who needs more information on the Lanier Striper Club in particular, send me a PM.

Yeah - as much as I have spent on bait and supplies I could have gotten a few trips in. I dont think I am really doing anything wrong, but just may not be in the right place at the right time. I had no problem hauling them in late last spring and all through the summer. Another remedy is simply time on the water. Thats what I am trying to do.

I was planning on joining a club, but with twins on the way I doubt I will have time. Thanks for all of the help. I am going to keep trying and the results will come I am sure.

I'm a firm believer in the transom\wake bait as well. My PB came on one with a 12" trout on it just after Thanksgiving last year.

I also second the motion on the boga. I opted for the 60# too Dan for exactly the reasons you mentioned. On a quest this year to break 30# and intend to be ready.

Troutman3000, you asked about running freelines with planers. Absolutely! Don't be afraid to throw out a downline as well along with pitchin' McStiks or Refins at the bank at the same time. Let the fish tell you want they prefer. Why limit yourself to one tactic?

Oh I dont limit myself to one tatic at all. Normally we have 5 baits in the water at different depths/presenations while we are dragging baits. Thats quite a task when fishing out of Super V 14' Tracker.

This wake/transom bait is just one you put about 15' behind the transom? I have had some spots knock the snot out my herrings while reeling them in once they get towards the boat so I guess it makes since.

I think its only a matter of time before I get all this spring time stuff figured out. The hardest part is knowing what presentation to use at what time and where to use it. Im getting there and plan on beating my pb of 23lbs within the next month.

Jim & and Fernando,

What a great day you guys had and I can't wait for you too teach me your tricks of the trade!!! Nice job guys you both deserve a great day on the water.

Thx Dan, we had agreat day even though we only boated 2 fish. I'll not forget the goose story any time soon.

Jim,

I forgot too mention that last year I was fishing in the back of Flat. I had a pair of geese fly right by the boat and ran into my planer board line, and ripped the release off the board. I couldn't believe how low they did there fly by (Negative Maverick the pattern is full)

Great report and great pics, Jim and Fernando! Congrat's!!