Quote Originally Posted by DW72 View Post
Hi all. I simply cannot wait to get out this spring. So many if you all are pros and/or have tons of experience so I have to ask. I only come in to fish a few times per year, maybe 3-5 trips. I usually do May through July with pretty fair luck on great eater fish. Wondered how early you have luck on the big fish in April trolling stickbaits?
I have been once towards the end of April and caught a couple big ones but they were already spawned out in 45 degree water. I read they start around 40 degrees? I'd like to try earlier even if I release them pre-spawn. I also assume they are generally shallower then and over humps vs. out in the flats? I know the jig fisherman don't like the trolling pressure so I would stay away and be respectful of that. I primarily fish out of Catawba.

Thanks very much to you all as I have really learned a lot from this site. I don't want to steal spots or fish in the pack but the general speeds and colors sure are helpful
Cheers to a safe and fun 2023!
Guys are still/already getting out and getting big fish. Cranks pulled slow. .8 - 1.5 mph. They grow their eggs in the fall, so the big girls are all full of eggs now. I have friends that pull their boats from SD every year to fish Erie and they come the first week of April. The past couple years have been amazing for them. Their fish averaged 5-6 lbs, with lots of 7-9 lb fish mixed in.