Pearl white crankbaits, white plastic worms and suspending stick baits in shades of pale catch a number of big bass on the frequent sites of bass tourneys where it usually requires a 4-pound average to cash a hefty check. Last year, the lake produced several fish bigger than 7 pounds, with at least one bass approaching the double-digit mark.

DNR surveys regularly yield fish in the 5- to 6-pound class, according to regional fisheries supervisor Steve Jenkins, who said, "There are much, much bigger fish in the lake."

Since Olney's white squirrels are protected by law and squirrel season is closed, you may opt to pitch a magnum white spinnerbait toward wood in the backs of shallow coves this time of year.

Another spring tactic, "deadsticking" involves suspending stick baits, such as a Lucky Craft pointer, over several shallow points.

Cast the lure beyond the point, give the rod tip a couple of rips, then let the bait sit for a minimum of 30 seconds. If a bass is in the area, the next twitch of the rod tip may trigger a strike.

The city of Olney owns the lake and requires purchase of an access sticker before launching. Stickers are available at city hall and several bait shops near the lake.

For more information, call East Fork Campground & Bait at (618) 395-4787.

LAKE CENTRALIA
Local anglers who regularly fish this old city reservoir say it's home to a monster bass in excess of 12 pounds. Last fall's DNR surveys cranked up several bass weighing more than 6 pounds, with fisheries supervisor Jenkins saying, "There are certainly much larger fish swimming here."

A city sticker is required to fish this 450-acre lake, with sticker price based on boat horsepower. Stickers are available at several locations around Centralia.

Lake Centralia is fairly easy to fish, with not much in the way of offshore structure. The upper end of this lake has a fair amount of sediment and less than ideal habitat throughout much of the year.

However, the dark bottom warms quickly and becomes a true fish magnet when water temperatures rise to the 40s in early spring. Try fan-casting an orange Rat-L-Trap in these silty coves while water temperatures are 43 to 48 degrees.