Just throwing out a report from Central Hoosierland;

Smaller surface waters are thawed. Hit a local pit/pond this evening and caught 2 small largemouth in about 45 minute span.

Water temperature at surface was 43 degrees.

Both fish (12 and 13.5") hit a 1/2 oz. Strike King "Red-Eye" Shad lipless crankbait. Depth was between 6 and 8 ft.

Upset that the cold front is going to swing down and hang around for the weekend, but it's definitely time to start hitting the water. Both fish today, while mainly a "load-on" strike - were feisty and looking to eat.

Looking to the big water in the next 10-14 days. I love this early pre-spawn - not just because of "fish re-awakening" and the overall aggressiveness, but because the fish haven't been pressured for a while and haven't seen lures buzzing around day-in, day-out.

It really boosts your confidence when you are beating the crowds!

Well, get after it.  Happy hunting, and good luck.

woo hoo!!!!!!!!! 8-)

Feels good don't it?  I live in central IN too and got to go out the other day for just a little bit.  It was around 60 out but the wind was about 25mph, water temp was around 42.  I didn't bass fish too much, more or less tinkered with my boat and checked electronics but I did catch a crappie.  Im surprised you caught them in that cool of water on a lipless crank... and that shallow even.  I'd figure they would still pretty much be frozen in winter mode out deeper.  Can't wait for warmer weather and perminantly open water!!

that's a good report.  glad you got to get out and stick a couple.  i know it had to feel good.

My oldest boy and I went out to test the "floating turd" for leaks friday before we finish the interior. Good news no leaks,,Bad news No fish and froze our butts off!

Good to hear a report from a fellow hoosier! I'm ready to hit the creek for some smallmouth (as soon as I get some waders!). Also looking forward to catching some LM this year.

Dadto4 we still need to hook up and do some fishing this summer...do you know any good ponds to fish in our area?

Shaw,pm sent