By Mike Frisch   Much thought is given to spinner blade color selection. I like to keep it simple, however, and use water clarity as a guide in helping me select which spinner rigs to use. When the water is clear, I opt for metallic colors, while off-colored waters call for some of the brighter colors.

Slip bobbers are versatile delivery systems for walleye fishing that suspend live bait in the strike zone virtually all season long. “You can fish slip bobber rigs in any number of situations, at various depths in the water column,” says Team Northland member and avowed walleye warrior Mark Courts. Northland Fishing Tackle’s Lite-Bite Slip Bobber is his favorite float, not just for its versatility but also the ubiquitous brass grommet that rests jauntily atop its colorful stem.

Many early-season walleyes spend time in shallow water, even before weeds become reliable cover. They might be along windswept shorelines, over sand, gravel, even beds of bottom-hugging sandgrass. They might be in a foot of water, or into the middle depths.

  Tracking down big bluegills is one of professional guide Brian Brosdahl’s specialities, so we forced him to spill the beans on his best recipe for May and early June. “You have to find the warmest water in the lake,” Bro begins. “I’m generally seeking out muddy areas, typically on the north end, but that can change depending on which way the wind is blowing.

Jeff ‘Gussy’ Gustafson Touring FLW bass pro Jeff Gustafson is also a longtime guide, and offers up his go-to approach for big bass in May and June. “At this time of year,” says Gussy, “most bass are in or close to spawning habitat. Largemouths like to spawn in the backs of bays and other protected areas.