1st trip to Willard Bay for 2019

[Hook_set]

I had a few hours free this morning so I went to Willard Bay with a friend. Last year about this time the wiper fishing was really hot. We went to the inlet first, the water is muddy and flowing really strong. We decided to go to the freeway bay. Used 1 rod with mussel for wiper, did not get any taker. Fished with a jig and caught 4 nice smallmouths. We kept 2 and released 2. Fish are healthy and thick.
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[wiperhunter2]

Nice looking smallies, how long were they? Wiper catching has been pretty slow for most people I've talked to so far this year but I bet that will change after this weekend.
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[Hook_set]

They are ranging between 14 and 16 inches. Getting ready to spawn here in the next few weeks.
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[wiperhunter2]

Those are some nice sized SM for Willard. I did not realise SM spawned this early. Water temps have been right at 50 degrees for a few weeks now, bet it warms up even more by the weekend.
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[FishWanabee]

Fairly new to fishing Willard. Always wondered what is best way of getting to that part of the bay. Thinking going out with granddaughter this weekend - would you mind sharing the set-up y'all were finding successful?
Aslo, what would be suggestion for best time this part of year - mornings or evenings
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[southernbass]

Do you mind telling what kind of job you were using? I'll going on Tuesday and if I can't get wiper or walleye I thought I would try for small mouth.pm me if you want as well
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[Hook_set]

I was using 1/8 oz jig with 3" curly tail, fishing parallel to the shoreline. I am planning to go again tomorrow.
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