I think they are up there as thick as they were because of the higher water temps caused by all the water being released from the lake to keep it at safe level. Normally there should not be bass,crappie etc up that close to the spillway from what i have been told because water was staying in the 50's in the past. The guys striper fishing were to the left of the gates out in the open area probably 20-30 feet from the dam casting in all directions. There is a wall to the left of the gates. They stayed to the left side of the wall. Water is to turbulant to fish in front of the gates in my opinion. Be careful because of the fast current and if i fished that close to the gates i would always wear a lifejacket. Good luck i hope you all catch a bunch. Let us know how you do. Later jc