What's a good game plan for fishing Lake Lanier in the post-spawn early summer transition?
I like to fish shallow with topwaters. Looking for those big females cruising the banks.
Can I have your old boat??
I'm sorry, but I'm not ready to get rid of it just yet!
I'll rig ya up a pretty new one...
Tyler Faggart@THETylerFaggart
What are your thoughts on the Alabama Rig?
I've had a lot of fun with it. The fish in my pond & the lakes up here once the water cools down can't handle it.
Michael Sklad@FishingFriendzy
What's the best advice for a small water guy hitting big water who is a first time bass boat owner?
Be very, very cautious, and pay close attention to the weather.
Justin Raughton@JustinRaughton
If you had to fish off the bank what would use?
I grew up bank fishing, I threw a lot of weedless jigs & frogs.
On southern reservoirs, best fishing is around bridges & riprap, and there I'd throw crankbaits.
As a college angler how do you feel about college fishing? Any advice for a college angler that wants to be a pro?
I think it's fantastic! The growth that's there creates great opportunities that weren't there when I started fishing.
Bobby Sweiderk@Bigggg_Poppa69
How would you fish a lake like Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia in the spring?
Smith Mountain is fairly clear, so swimbaits & jerkbaits would be my go-tos during prespawn (cont) then sight fishing during spawn & postspawn.
Bobby Sweiderk@Bigggg_Poppa69
what's the best way to fish the Potomac river?
When I'm on the Potomac, I try to fish areas that have an outgoing moving tide. Stay away from the flat tide.
Which event are you most psyched about for the 2013 season? As a marshal I hope to be paired up with you at the Lawrence River!
Lake St. Clair is the one I'm looking the most forward to.
Do you prefer fishing for smallmouth or largemouth?
Smallmouth, that's easy!
Bobby Sweiderk@Bigggg_Poppa69
Do you have any tips for a beginning jig fisherman?
When you're learning a new technique, if you can go to a place where you can get bites on that lure it's helpful.
Hey KVD, favourite creature baits of 2012?
I fish a @StrikeKingLures Game Hawg and a Rodent a lot.
What lure will be the most crucial for you in 2013
Our schedule is so diverse, it's really hard to tell. I'm going to have to be open-minded & use my whole tacklebox.
What is your main goal for next season? Anything different than usual?
I have the same goals every year to be in contention to win the Classic, Angler of the Year and one Elite Series.
Are you looking forward to the Sabine River tourney and how do u plan to attack that river
It's one of the few places I don't know anything about. I like the challenge of going to new water.
What is your strategy for fall/early winter Lake Erie Smallmouth?
This time of year, you've got to watch the weather from a safety standpoint. Fish are biting grubs and blade baits.
Fishing Reports@ReportYourFish
Do you notice any global warming changes across the lakes you've fished? Any strategy changes for you?
It seems like spring came earlier last year across the country. I don't know if that's global warmingor not, but I definitely watch the water long-term leading up to tournaments.
What did you think about the All-Star event on Lake Shelbyville in Illinois 12 anglers 2 lake?
To me it was a great venue, we just hit it at a really tough time. As an angler it was frustrating, but it was supposed to be a test of the best.
What steps do you take to adjust your quantum bait casting reels specifically with the ACS breaks. Since each reel is different
I adjust the spool tension based on the weight of the lure, go a little on the loose side then the ACS break usually up to 75% or even 100 if I'm throwing into a stiff wind.
Team Rippin Lips@teamrippinlips
Do you remember team trouble makers from the pickwick lake tournament? LOL
Yep! I do! (laughing)
Do you have a date and lake set yet for the 2013 Vandam/Lions charity tournament?
Yes, we do! Let me look at my calendar, I've already been planning with the @DetroitLionsNFL It's June 8-9!
Thx Kevin, we had a great time and we want to be there to support your event every year.
Fishing Reports@ReportYourFish
How's Jonathon expecting to do this year?
@JonathonVanDam like all VanDams is extremely confident!
Kevin, have you ever fished Chickamauga?
Yes I have, it's been quite some time. I have friends who tell me it's a hot lake because the way the grass came back.