05-29-2001, 05:32 PM
Surface temperatures at Lake Lanier have climbed into the mid 70 ‘s, and the lake level is holding around 9 feet below normal pool. The spawning period for most species in the lake has ended. Nevertheless, many fish are still being caught in the shallower parts of the lake.<br> Striped bass have also finished their spawning activities, and can be found on points and humps all over the lake. Flat-lined live baits are working best, but some stripers are already hitting big topwater lures.This exciting topwater action will continue, and even become better in the month of June, especially early in the day.<br> Most spotted bass have already spawned, but can still be found in 5 to 15 feet of water along red clay banks. Many recovering “spots” are showing up on rocky points and around boat docks or visible brush. It is still possible to catch 20 to 50 spotted bass every day with the 1/8th or 1/4 ounce Swirleybird. This action will continue until the early-morning surface temperature at Lanier surpasses 80 degrees.<br> Crappie fishing above Clarks Bridge and in most of the other creeks around the lake has slowed, but some nice catches are possible under bridges at night. Most of these fish are being caught on live minnows, but many are also being taken on smaller plastic or hair jigs.<br> Trout fishing in the Chattahoochee River below the dam is great for both rainbow and browns. The new “Chattahoochee Special” spinner is still the hottest lure for trout all over the river this year.<br>Bill Vanderford has won numerous awards for his writing and photography, and has been inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide. He can be reached at 770-962-1241 or at his web site: www.fishinglanier.com<br><br><br>Living to Fish and Fishing to Live<br>Bill Vanderford<br>www.fishinglanier.com<br>770-962-1241