Ironically, the state's larger impoundments, which have hundreds of miles of shoreline, are usually the least bank-accessible. Few have designated fishing piers. Paul Rister is one fishery official who is doing everything he can to help bank fishermen haul in more fish. If we know about an area where people bank fish, and if they have good water, we'll do what we can to spruce it up. Bank fishing generally is most productive during the spring, when many fish move into shallow water and shoreline cover to spawn, but fishing from shore can be productive year-round.
Many marinas allow fishing from their docks.
Some may charge a minimal fee, but you'll usually find an assortment of panfish along with an occasional bass lurking near the cover provided by these catwalks. Another option for the boatless angler is wading. Common among stream fishermen, pulling on a pair of waders can put you within reach of fish on large impoundments as well. It's a whole different world off the bank. Wading can be particularly effective during April and May, when crappie and bluegill spawn.