Very good advice APB. One thing you have to consider is your fellow fisherman. I don't fish dams from shore anymore. Been there done that and I decided it wasn't worth it. There is some kind of hierarchy that is set up by the locals. If you like fishing elbow to elbow and having guys cast over your shoulder and tangling your lines, than this is for you. The locals will probably give you the cold shoulder, evil eye and anything else to let you know where your place is. I would rather fish other areas that are less productive just so I can have an enjoyable experience. Thats just me though.