This has been one of my best springs to date. Several five fish limits over 27 poundsand a record breaking 35.23 pound limit occurred this spring. In one day, we boated 40 bass over 5 lbs, 9 over 6 pounds, 3 over 7 pounds and one over 8 pounds. As prespawn in NY comes to an end, things are changing fast. Water temps are approaching the mid 60s, grass is starting to grow, and fish are scattering from their prespawn staging areas. Fish are being seen roaming up shallow looking for a place to spawn, while some fish have already began spawning. This time of the year can be tricky for some, but here are a few ways I like to approach this time of the year. Not all fish spawn at the same time, so there are a few different patterns that usually always produce for me.

Sight fishing is one of my favorite ways to catch them. On those calm, sunny days I like to get up in the dirt and start searching. Finesse jigs, Senkos and even a glidebait are all you really need when it comes to sight fishing. On those overcast but still relatively calm days, topwater typically excels for me. Whether it be a frog, buzzbait or walking style bait, fish in all stages of spawn are willing to come up for a quick meal. Lastly, on those gnarly weather days, sometimes fish that haven’t locked onto a bed will pull back out to their prespawn staging areas and will bite almost anything you throw at them.

For those considering making the trip to one of Central New York’s premiere lakes this year, do it. The shear amount of 4- to 6-pound fish is astonishing. There are populations of fish that live in all depths year round. The best part is, you can typically catch them however you want. The vast amount of options are what keeps me dialed throughout the year. Whether it be punching grass, cranking rock, or dropshotting out deep, anglers are able to fish to their comforts and stay confident while out on the water.