That is my personal best open water gill measuring at 12.25 inches and 2 pounds 3 ounces. Wish I would have looked at the camera... but I guess I couldn't take my eye off the fish

This deep water pattern holds so true for many lakes. Granted, we have an abundance of shallow water lakes throughout the various regions, but when the water warms up, you can bet you'll find some of the larger fish utilizing the deeper, cooler water. Weeds also provide shade and comfort... and in turn cooler water at times...