Shoals are especially convenient for trout, because they can move quickly from the fertile shallow water back to the safety of deep water just off the shoal's edge. Anglers can anchor a boat near the edge of a shoal and cast jigs or leeches off a sinking line and bounce them along the drop-off. Anglers also should pay attention to drop-offs where trout hide during midday hours, particularly on bright days. Plugs, jigs, leeches and streamers all draw strikes in spring areas when fished within a few feet of the bottom. Whether you hit a lake or reservoir at ice-out or during turnover, realize that you're in for some good fishing.
Spring is arguably the best time to catch large trout in still waters across the country.
Arm yourself with a variety of flies, jigs and plugs and hit it while the getting's good.