This calls for a different strategy where I've found the key, whether fishing from beach or boat, is to know the water you plan to fish. You need to capitalize on the experience of knowing where the adult baitfish congregate as they migrate, i.e., where fresh water flumes and rivers enter the ocean, where strong rip currents form, where jetties extend seaward, where there are cuts between sandbars and the troughs inside the bars, and at coastal inlets, to cite but a few examples.

Nowadays, there are many new lure designs on the market. However, I would caution both beach and boat anglers to select a few basic lures, learn how to use them properly, and concentrate their efforts away from the crowds, whether fishing on the beach or a boat.

Early in the spring, the baitfish aren't yet schooled up, nor are the bass. At this time of year, I prefer using big plugs that replicate adult bunker, shad, herring and mackerel. After all, these are the species that stripers most often encounter as they move northward. The Creek Chub wooden Pikie has long been a favorite of mine from beach and boat, with the silver flash and yellow striper finishes being my favorites. These plugs are metal-lipped and with casting tackle, depending on speed of retrieve, can be worked in 4- to 7-foot depths, and will swim as deep as 11 feet while trolling.

Basically, these plugs resemble a mouthful for a hungry bass, which is why I like them in the spring. The plastic Cordell Red Fins, Rebels and Stillwater Beach Runners also are good choices. Not to be forgotten are the myriad custom-made metal-lipped swimmers being marketed by most coastal tackle shops. Just remember to use a couple of good plugs -- you don't need a dozen or two models -- and master their use. If you do, you'll likely be just fine.

For trolling anglers who are targeting stripers, a big Montauk Bunker Spoon will bring strikes from lunker bass, while smaller spoons (like those made by Drone and Hopkins) will work well with schoolie fish. The thing with spoons is getting them deep, which may be accomplished while using wire line, or braided line in conjunction with a 4- or 5-ounce trolling sinker.

When trolling plugs and spoons, make certain to adjust your trolling speed so that the rod tips are pulsating steadily. Troll too slowly and the lures won't be working. Too fast and they'll be spinning. You have to constantly adjust your engine's speed. Work your plugs at a crawl when stemming the tide, but increase your speed when moving with the tidal current or wind.

Soft-plastic swim shad by Tsunami and Storm, and numerous other brands, are very effective. Whether I'm fishing from beach or boat, I'll carry and use the 5- to 8-inch-long models rigged with 6/0 or 7/0 hooks, with a choice in finishes depending on the prevailing baitfish. White is also a very effective choice.