Guide Jim Taibi reports that bass are now schooling and actively chasing shad in packs. Largemouth and smallmouth in the 1–2 lb range are still the average, but fish up to 5 lbs haven't been uncommon. Live shad and surface/reaction baits are key right now... poppers, Flukes, and Lucky Craft Pointers. Soft plastic finesse baits are also working, but the surface reaction action is really where it's at.

Stripers are starting to show up on top, although the surface activity is not in full swing yet. If you find a boil, Taibi reports topwater baits like Gunfish, Espetit’s, and 007 Risers will get you fish. Large schools of 6 lb stripers are around, pointing to a potentially excellent upcoming topwater bite shortly.