The best way to begin a fish report is to be able to say that this past week we had a 15.9 lbs striper caught near the Ramp #2 area from a boat. While most of the striper were not this size, several in the 4 to 5 pound rang were caught as the weather continues to cool the water. Striper are hitting chicken liver and cut anchovies, but most of the larger fish are all coming in off of artificial baits. Jerk baits, top water, rattle traps, swim baits and even jigs seem to be perking the striper interest. With the first trout stock of the season due for the 5th, we are all hoping to see the striper action improve. Best areas seem to be the inlet area, East End and Ramp #2 area. Bass are still biting as well. South Shore seems to be the best area this past week, however fishermen are still reporting hook ups in the East End as well. Most of the large bass seem to be hitting artificial baits just like the striper, however drop shot plastics still seem to be the bait of choice for the bass. Catfish remained active this past week, but the numbers have dropped off as the water has cooled. Most of the cats seem to be coming in from deeper water near the dam and the inlet as well as the East End Channel. mackerel and chicken liver seem to be the best baits for the cats. Some bluegills still in the mix, but not much has been report on them this past week.

These are the following fish ratings:

Bass: Good
Bluegill: Fair
Carp: Poor
Catfish: Good
Crappie: Poor
Striper: Good
Trout: Poor