Answer: When I can get out. There is no right answer on this. It all depends on the day, the conditions, the crowds, etc. For example, if I am fishing stained water, or especially muddy water, then the middle of the day, bright sun is your best option. However, if it is clear and crowded, then the bite might shut down an hour after the sun comes up. Lake Erie has historically been good at all times of the day, but it depends on the conditions. For the D-River in April, I tend to fish in the afternoons to avoid the big crowds, especially on the weekends. Plus, it is usually warmer then.