My waders have a slight leak so I refuse to stand in the freezing cold water. It's has to warm up a bit for me.

Water temp means a lot.
Wading from shore or on shore can be done.
Having fun is all that matters- fish or no fish
Here's been my five year success story:
1. Find lake
2. Check for ice- no ice wait one week
3. Fish gravel bars with jigs/rapalas
4. Catch fish or no fish- be happy

woodenbobber
well said be happy dont worry life is to enjoy

Words to live by!

ORIGINAL: woodenbobber

Water temp means a lot.
Wading from shore or on shore can be done.
Having fun is all that matters- fish or no fish
Here's been my five year success story:
1. Find lake
2. Check for ice- no ice wait one week
3. Fish gravel bars with jigs/rapalas
4. Catch fish or no fish- be happy

i can not believe i have never tryed wading pyma. i live in pittsburgh, but have had a cabin at pymatuning for 16 years lol. THIS is the year. so if anyone is willing to let me tag along, i would really appreciate it. i pretty much catch and release........and no need to worry about me spot burning to friends etc. cause pretty much my fishing partner is my 72 year old father, who has NOOOO wish to do this. thanks in advance, for at least considering this.

I can't understand the need to stand hip deep in cold water when you guys say you catch them right next to shore in 2 ft' of water!!WTF

litl dude, i was thinking the same thing. lol but i am sure there is something to it, and this is the YEAR i find out.

Gotta say another bonus to breaking out the waders and taking a walk is all of the free tackle. Usually I peruse the shoreline on my way back to the vehicle, and tend to find quite a bit. Must have found $100 worth of crankbaits and the like last year alone. Throw on some new treble hooks and good to go. I've never bought a hot & tot in my life, but now have 2 dozen or better .

+1 lures along the shore are numerous. I find them floating all summer long while out on the boat also. Always keep some spare hooks for putting on the lures I find.

ORIGINAL: Litl Dude

I can't understand the need to stand hip deep in cold water when you guys say you catch them right next to shore in 2 ft' of water!!WTF

Isn't that what I just said?