When fishing the tailwater areas in spring, try shallow-running crankbaits, spinnerbaits and plastic worms. As the water warms a bit, head for the creek mouths and try running crankbaits, jig-and-pigs and jigging spoons.

In the main channel, look for woody debris, rocky banks and weedbeds. The baits that work well in the backwater areas will also entice bass in the main channel.

Ohio River fishing is extremely popular near the dams; however, these are some of the more dangerous areas. Restricted zones exist on both the upstream and downstream sides of the dams. The primary danger here is the strong current, and the loss of one's boat power can be disastrous.

For anglers planning to travel between navigation pools, taking the time to learn proper procedure for passing through a lock is all-important. Pamphlets are available at each lock. These instructions show boaters proper approach, signaling, mooring and departure. Keep in mind the lockmaster directs all boat traffic while in this area.

Throughout the midsection of the Ohio River, largemouth bass head for the creeks andembayments during the early days of spring. When the temperatures exceed 50 degrees, the bass look for shallower places to spawn.

Anglers are also advised to keep abreast of all Ohio River fish advisories. The Ohio River is much cleaner now than in the past, and the health of the fisheries is in much improved condition as well. Still, by following the consumption advisories found in the Kentucky Sport Fishing & Boating Guide, health benefits are maximized and risks of unwanted contaminants are reduced.

Fishermen are also advised that undercurrents within the main body of the Ohio River are extremely strong. Life preservers, especially for the younger anglers, are a must when fishing this river. The slow-moving water can often be deceptive when it comes to the powerful undercurrents.

Barge traffic on the river is also to be taken into consideration. The wakes that follow the passing of a barge can give a smaller craft a hard time if the boater is unfamiliar with how to negotiate the treacherous rocking.

For additional information on the largemouth bass management and regulations for the Ohio River, contact the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Game Farm Road, Frankfort, KY 40601; or call (800) 858-1549.