Make the trip down to Ky lake/Barkley. Tons of great fishing that time of year, and plenty of good places to stay. If it keeps raining like it has I would stick with the Ky lake side - Barkley can get a little muddy. I would save some money on lodging and stay in Aurora - tons of cheap lodging set up for fisherman. Then you would have some left over for a trip with Dave Stewart. I have mine reserved for later in the year and can't wait. I may be able to split a trip with you during that time if you want - hopefully my wife/financial advisor won't see this. But you can't beat these lakes in the spring.