1. In Lakeland, Lake Hollingsworth is turning back on for specks on minnows and grass shrimp. Still hearing good things about Lake Crago for specks as well. Shiners remain the go-to bait for bass. On Lake Parker, the bass are starting to spawn, so stick to shallow water near the grass. For specks, try Horseshoe Lake at Tenoroc on minnows, reports Phillips Bait and Tackle (863-666-2248).
2. In Auburndale and Lake Alfred, bass fishing has picked up on Lake Ariana, while speck fishing has remained strong on minnows. In Lake Alfred, on lakes Alfred, Rochelle and Haines, speck fishing has been busy with multiple reports of nice-sized specks and limits being caught. A 12-pound bass was reported out of Lake Alfred, says Ron Schelfo at Ron’s Tackle Box (863-956-4990).
3. In Winter Haven, on the south side, the mouths of the canals have been hot because the bass are chasing the specks and they’re all congregating. Fishing has been great everywhere, according to Schelfo. Capt. Bill Goudy reports that he’s been catching some nice bass in the offshore grass piles. If you can find those, they’re holding fish. Try dropshot trick worms, a lightweight fluke, Texas rig worms and square-bill crankbait on the outside edge of the Kissimmee grass. For a guided fishing trip with Capt. Goudy, call Bass Online (888-629-2277).