I've been out on Merwin early this year and so far the Lake is producing some nice fish in the 13"-15" range.
The real problem now is the Weather, its been from Bad to Worse but a few buddies have found a couple nice days.
If you plan on going CHECK the weather first! Merwin is not a place for small boats on a bad day!

This early in the year the fish are in the top 20 ft. so trolling with down riggers is not necessary. Lead line or some weight will work well. Pink & more Pink, Chartuse, and then pink/blue are my favorite colors at Merwin. I use the Pink Berkley Maggots 90% of the time & then corn with special sents. I use the term "Special" because everyone has their own favorite but Anise is always good. Hoochies are the go to lure followed by Spinners,& Apex at Merwin. Pink of course! Hoochies come in several different types, Shasta Wiggle Hoochies,some have blades & small, medium, large lengths. I've used them all But if I could have only one it would be from Robby at R&K. He has the Mini Micros,& smaller size's plus his colors are great! For Dodgers I like Shasta Sling Blades & Vance Dodgers. Both have a lot of PINK colors to chose from!
So to sum it up I think Merwin is on the way to another great Year! See You THERE!
Kokonuts

---