I need your expert opinions.

[Jim Kearney]

Yesterday, while fishing in eastern Nebraska, we hit a favorite lake which I frequent. Great day, sunny with a light wind and temps in the low. 70's. We caught several bass including a couple of very nice ones. Not one to complain, I must say that we were actually bluegill (and crappie) fishing. Guess what? We COULD NOT GET THEM TO HIT. We fished for over six hours, covered most of the lake and I had a worm in the water at various depths almost all of the time. Caught one small one and that was it. I know fish can be finecky but can't remember not being able to catch a few 'gills in mid-May. I understand barometer, cold fronts, weather patterns and the like but why were the bass hitting? Please join in on this one, especially you Nebraska guys. Thanks.

[George Hogoboom]

Jim- I don't know the situations in Nebraska,but here in Michigan the Bass spawn just before the Gills do. The Bass you were catching might have been bedding and on the muscle due to that.The local lake I fish has not had the Gills bed yet but I have seen bedding Bass around the shore line.Better luck next time out !!
George Hogoboom

[Jim Kearney]

George, I am certain that you are correct in your view that the bluegill have not bedded yet. Still is a bit odd that we couldn't find a couple of strays. Thanks for the reply and good fishing.

[Lord of the Fly , Rods]

Fish deeper, fish slower

[Jim Gronaw]

Hey Jim...did you get a water temperature? That will often tell a large part of the story. But like the other guys said, bass will be active before gills are throughout the spring progression. Is your lake spring fed?...maybe holding temperatures down a bit from other local waters. Also, is the water clear or stained? Did you fish the northeast and northwest sections of the lake? Usually those areas warm up quicker in the spring. Good Luck!