The bite just keeps getting better as the water continues to cool. Lake temps have nearly equallized across the board, and disolved oxygen is good just about everywhere. That means the trout can turn up anywhere from east to west and top to bottom. Some of the fish are loosely scattered about, but a lot of them are schooled up. The difference between a good day and a great day depends on finding one of those schools and sticking with it.

For shore anglers, it’s a waiting game. Cast out your favorite floating bait on a carolina rig and hope a large group of trout comes through. When they do show up, you may be able to switch to a spoon or a spinner if that’s more your style. However, bait is usually the most consistent option.

Boaters have the advantage of being able to cover more water. Trolling and drifting are the most effective techniques for locating fish, but the most common mistake is continuing along your route after hooking up. Where there’s one there’s usually more, so stay in the zone to repeat your success.