His spinnerbait outfit consists of a 7-foot rod housing a reel with a 6.3:1 gear ratio; the reel is spooled with 15-pound-test fluorocarbon line.

Finally, Olive flips with a heavy-action 7-foot rod and a reel with a 6.3:1 gear ratio. He uses 20-pound-test fluorocarbon line.

MAPS AND RAMPS
Topographical maps are not as critical in April as they are during the summer months when fishing involves offshore structure. The maps now mainly serve as useful guides for navigating around the lakes and for indicating the location of standing timber, bridges, riprap, boat ramps and place names.

FHS Maps publishes contour maps of Jordan (A312) and Falls of the Neuse (A313), which can be ordered by calling (800) ALL-MAPS. GMCO Maps offers waterproof maps of both lakes. Call (888) 420-6277 or visit www.gmcomaps.com. The maps are also available at local tackle stores and marinas.

The Farrington Point access off Farrington Road and the Ebenezer Church access off Beaver Creek Road serve as the main public accesses to Jordan Lake. The Ledge Rock access off SR 1900, the Highway 50 Recreation Area off NC 50, and the Rolling View access off SR 1807 provide launch sites for Falls of the Neuse.

Additional launch sites are indicated on lake maps.

These two U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes have fairly stable water levels with only extreme drought or flood conditions affecting lake access.

The normal pool for Jordan Lake is 216 feet above sea level; the normal pool for Falls of the Neuse is 250 feet above sea level. For water levels, contact the Corps of Engineers at (919) 542-4501 or http://epec.saw. usace.army.mil/capefear.htm.

Find more about North Carolina fishing and hunting at: NCgameandfish.com