Time to spring into action

It’s being called an “angler’s spring” by many Chicago fishermen.

Lake Michigan: Platoons of hungry shore fishermen claim they haven’t seen spring coho fishing this good in many years. Typical small “springers” are being taken on live bait, tiny spinners and ultrasmall, bright crankbaits. The action is good in the annual spring locations just outside the various harbors.

Fox Chain: According to one tackle dealer, the crappie action on the Chain is unreal. That of course translates into a spectacular spring bite.

Fox River: Small walleyes being taken just below the McHenry Dam. But the main focus seems to be in the river’s side channels where crappie schools are providing a very hot bite.

Shabbona: Could an early muskie bite be happening? It appears that’s the case. Panfish a tad slow, but the muskies seem to be on a rampage in shallow water.