We're in a severe drought, and the water is way down at Lake Manatee. But I decided to head out this morning anyway. Places where I normally fish are dry.

But I found an area that was holding fish. I caught a few early on poppers, then switched to my No. 12 bead head nymph.

End up with 40 bluegill, a couple of big shellracker, several stumpknocker, golden shiners and seven bass -- all on 1-weight.

It was good to get out.

Spring is here!