The recent rain and warmer temperatures have taunted anglers all week. But as quickly as the weather began to warm, it has already begun to cool. The number of fishermen on the water seems to be increasing each week little by little. This time next month, fishermen will be packing the boat ramps and creek banks looking to get in on the spring fishing frenzy.
     Most anglers regard springtime fishing as the best time to catch quality fish. While quality fish can be caught anytime of the year, fish are in the shallows longer during the spring, making them more vulnerable to a higher percentage of anglers. Every year tournament anglers and weekend anglers alike catch giant largemouth bass, stripers and crappie in the shallows of the lakes and creeks in the Ozarks.
     Some of the best fishing can be found in the area's streams. Bass flourish in these streams and now is the time for anglers to start planning trips. This is the time of year when the creeks are rising and warm rains can increase a fish's activity level. You still want to work your lures slowly, because these warm rains will make the water muddy. Fish will not move as far for a lure in muddy water.
     Most anglers specifically target the smallmouth bass that inhabit the local Ozark streams. Many fish over 3 pounds are taken this time of year from streams like the Kings River, Little Sugar Creek, Piney Creek and War Eagle. Many of these streams hold large quantities of quality smallmouth, largemouth and spotted bass. Yet the simplicity of catching fish in these streams still surprises many anglers.
     Before going anywhere review the Arkansas Floater Kit available through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at http://www.arkansas.com/outdoors_sports/float/intro.html. The float kit will give you descriptions and maps as well as suggestions and a list of nearby accommodations. Anglers can reach most of the streams in this area by vehicle and walk the banks without having to get wet. Accessibility makes fishing these streams appealing this time of year. The adventurous amongst us can also fish these waterways with canoe or Jon boat. But fishing from the bank affords many overlooked opportunities.
     Anglers on the bank can work sections of the creek more thoroughly than canoeists because the current often carries you downstream in a canoe. Being able to make multiple casts to a fallen tree or brush pile is a big plus when the water temperatures are cool in the early spring. The fish are lethargic, so the longer you can keep your bait in a spot the better.
     Bank fishermen also can sneak up on the fish so to speak. Fishing on Kings River last year an angler reported catching two bass from one bed while lying on an overhanging tree. By merely keeping a low profile or crouching while walking the bank, you can avoid spooking skittish smallmouth in the shallows.
     Keep your tackle basic. Employ the lightest line that the cover will afford. For most anglers, 6 or 8 pound test works just fine. Outfit your spinning rod and reel with light line and 1/8 oz to 1/4 oz lures. Wear warm clothing in layers and try using a small backpack to carry items like extra fishing line, small tackle boxes, water bottle, camera, and a towel.
     Anglers' lure selections should center around the crawfish bite this time of year. As the water begins to warm the big smallmouth bass will begin roaming the shallows looking for an easy meal in the form of a crawfish. There are lots of crawfish imitators and most will work. Try small rubber skirted jigs, spider grubs, curl tail grubs and tube baits. In clear water, anglers should throw spider jigs and tube baits in natural colors like watermelon, pumpkin and avocado. In dingy or muddy water, throw bulkier baits like rubber skirted jigs in off colors like brown and orange, black and chartreuse or blue and black.
     Fan cast an area trying to always cast upstream and let your bait tumble back in the current. Anglers should key on obvious structures like fallen trees, brush piles and boulders. When a fish is hooked in cover like this, just be patient and continuously apply pressure. A lot of times a fish will swim itself out of the cover if you apply steady pressure as a guide. Pulling a 4-pound "brownie" out of a brush pile on 6 pound line is what makes fishing so intriguing.
     Take advantage of the outdoors this spring and beat the rush to your favorite fishing holes. Anglers should stay tuned to the weather. A few warm days can raise the water temperature a few degrees. One warm rain can warm the shallows even more. You might be surprised at the rewards.