The recent warm up in Southern Illinois after night sod heavy rain was a welcoming surprise for early March. Water temperatures on Kinkaid Lake are in the mid to upper 40’s and Muskies have made their push to the spawning coves. The water conservancy district was able to draw down the water three feet this winter to help mitigate the heavy milfoil in shallow water. This in turn has left the shallow flats void of heavy weed cover and allows for Llungen Lure Rattlin’ Shad’s to cover water quickly. Multiple fish days have not been uncommon and fish are on the move. Lots of males being caught in the mid 30” range, but larger females up to 43”  are showing up every couple of days. The north end is still heavily stained, but have confidence in your approach,as Dunhouse and Sharp Rock are loaded with fish. Main lake still presents a decent trolling bite if you can find the suspended gizzard Shad. The notorious “water treatment” area has already seen heavy angling pressure and adapting is key.  My advice would be to move off shore a little and make sure your baits tickle that 5-8ft depth in the timbered coves.

Tight Lines!

Scott Donovan

/http://www.shawneeguides.com/