Big Sam (130,000 acres) is in beautiful shape with water level at 162.70' which is less than 2 feet below full pool. Water temps are running from 63 to 66 degrees and in protected coves a little higher. There's still a lot of bass in shallow water and it is no problem catching 20-30 bass a day but a lot of them will be small and the spotted bass are out in mass. I caught them on wacky worms, spinnerbaits, jigs and Carolina rigs. Also, they are in 4 feet and even 20 feet so there is no shortage of bites but quality bass are a different matter. The larger bass are moving into the deeper drains as well as to main lake and main creek points. Some of the best bass are coming on 12 to 15 feet ridges with deeper water close by. We also caught some bass on crankbaits both medium diver (DLNs from Norman's Lures) as well as DD22s which on 10 lb test run 12 ft (DLN) to 18 ft (DD22). The 10 lb test we are cranking is Berkley Trilene 100% Fluorocarbon. As far as ridges, I like the ridges in front of Farmers as well as those in Black Forest. As far as other patterns, topwater action is increasing, especially on these cloudy days. the frog bite is also coming on strong. If you have not checked out Stanley's new Top Toad Ribbit you might should consider it. It is a hollow-bodied bait that is designed for Stanley's Double Take hooks that fit perfectly on top of the bait. The Top Toad can be fished numerous ways as it floats so it is perfect to pause it in open holes in the grass. Drop shot patterns are also on the increase with my favorite d.s. soft plastic being a Havoc Bottom Hopper Jr. (4.75 inches). This is an amazing little worm with a floating tail which stands up when rigged drop shot. Bass love it. AUTHOR INFO: Joe Joslin is a syndicated outdoor columnist, tournament angler and pro guide on Toledo and Sam Rayburn. Contact him at 337-463-3848 or e-mail at [email protected] or website www.joejoslinoutdoors.com