Late winter/ early spring is a great time to bring out my
favorite lures: supending jerkbaits. Water temperatures
in the 40s will work, with the best range 45-60 degrees.

Initially I suggest a cadence with long pauses. LC Pointers
(78, 100 & 128) and Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10) are my
choice for this presentation. I also like the Megabass Ito Vision II and Sebile Koolie, both with liquid centers.

When bass are very active, the Rapala X-Rap (XR08) really
shines. Rapala calls the X-Rap a "slash bait" and should
be worked fast: http://www.rapala.com/products/lures/x-rap/

Long casts are important. I suggest 6 1/2' or 7' MF baitcaster
with a soft tip. Specifically St. Croix AVS66MF. Mine is
curently matched with a Scorpion 1000 and Yo-Zuri
Hybrid #12.