Top Crappies — Virginia
Kerr Lake, VA/NC — This 49,000-acre flood-control reservoir is recognized as one of the top crappie-producing lakes in the country. The prespawn bite is in full swing by March; slow-troll tactics rule at this time. When crappies eventually go onto beds, change over to casting small jig. Contact: Tim Wilson, (434) 374-0674
— Darl Black
Go Long — Ontario
Long Lake, ON — This underfished reservoir stretches nearly 50 miles from north to south. In March and early April, walleyes start to migrate to the northern end of the lake, and stage near the mouth of the Kenogami River. Hard-water season usually continues through mid-April. Contacts: North of Superior Tourism, (800) 265-3951; Skinner’s Acre Bait and Tackle, (807) 876-2245.
— Gord Ellis
Return Of The Kings — California
American River, CA — For the first time in years, landlocked king salmon are spawning in the American River above Folsom Lake and anglers can catch them shallow in March’s cool weather. The fish range from 1 1/2 to 3 pounds. Bank anglers fish minnows and nightcrawlers under floats or on sliding sinker rigs; boaters troll spoons, spinners and plugs. Contact: Sacramento Pro Tackle, (916) 925-0529.
— Dan Bacher