In addition to live bait, tube jigs should be part of every Lake Erie angler's repertoire. Experiment with different colors and sizes until the fish reveal their preference with rod-bending strikes.

At this time of year, smallmouths are extremely aggressive, which means only one thing -- crankbaits. Depending on where you are on the lake, these can produce some amazing results.

One thing to remember is that bronzebacks like noise. Smallmouths are inquisitive by nature, so if you've run past them a lure that makes some noise, they'll come to investigate.

For more information on lodging and tourism, contact the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism at 1-800- BUCKEYE. You can hear a general Lake Erie fishing report at 1-888- HOOK- FISH.

Live-bait fishermen use crayfish, leeches and minnows bounced along the bottom, easily producing 50 to 75 fish per man, per day.

One of the best launches to use is the Shelby Street boat launch at 101 Shelby Street in Sandusky. This launch, operated by the city of Sandusky, costs $5 per day.

Check the ODNR's Web site at OhioDnr.com for regulations, as well as information on where to go to enjoy this fantastic smallmouth fishery.

PENNSYLVANIA
At this time of year, Keystone State anglers can enjoy some of the best waters for smallmouths anywhere in the East.

Spring smallmouth bass fishing here is rated as among the best in the country. In early to late spring, smallmouths may be caught along the shoreline as they prepare for their spring spawn. Tube jigs, drop-shot rigs and crankbaits are deadly. Live-bait fishermen use crayfish, leeches and minnows bounced along the bottom, easily producing 50 to 75 fish per man, per day.

Walnut Creek Marina, Presque Isle Bay and Safe Harbor Marina are the primary destinations for launching boats at this time of year.

Pennsylvania's Lake Erie smallmouths love rocky bottoms. Some of the best habitat of this type can be found off the Keystone State's shores. Find steep dropoffs with rocks or crushed stone, and you'll find some smallmouths.

Generally, the fishing will get incrementally better as spring turns into summer. Early May will be productive, but once the water begins to warm, the fish really turn on. Target depths between 10 and 25 feet of water. Start presenting lures and baits at 15 feet and work them up or down, as the fishing dictates.