We have arrived back in New York from our winter home in Florida and are in the process of preparing for the some bass fishing. I have watched a few boats go past our cottage and I will tell you that the fisher people are fishing way to fast. The water is warming and northern bass are accustomed to cooler water, but they are cold blooded and their metabolism is not at peak now.
It is always best to start fishing in protected areas where the water will be slightly warmer. Present you baits slowly and let the bass tell you how active they are in the area you have chosen to fish.
The water on Honeoye is very clear now, so use watermelon seed or other green type plastic baits. If you find turbid water switch to green pumpkin or black. Moving baits such as a small crank bait, lipless crank bait or spinnerbait will work but make very slow presentations.
Good fishing,
Frank