Visiting in August - 1st time striping

[redskins]

My family and I are visiting in mid-august for a week. I've read a ton of forum posts (love this forum) but it is so much information, my head is swimming. I don't expect to go out and start catching fish right off the bat. I just want to relax and if I catch something, great. But I (and my kids) want to have at least a chance of catching something. Here are my questions for those nice enough to help me out.

Half of the week, we won't have a boat and are stating on the coast NE of Retreat Island. Is it worth it and/or possible to catch anything of note off the shore there? If so, which type of fish is most likely and which bait would you use?

The other half of the week, we'll have a pontoon boat. Not sure if it will have a trolling motor though. What area would you suggest going to to drop anchor and fish for a few hours (and what time of day) and which type of fish would you suggest I look for? And again, which bait.

Again, sorry to be such a newbie but trying to make this the best vacation ever and maybe even show my kids that dad can catch a fish. Ha. 

[mallardman]

Hello redskins! I'm glad you and your family are getting some relaxation in together. I'm new to fishing at the lake as well. I used to just strictly saltwater fish. This forum was extremely helpful in getting me started. Everyone on here is knowledgable. As far as bank fishing goes, you're going to be limited to what you catch of course. If you don't have access to alewives, I would just buy some large or jumbo minnows and bottom fish using a Carolina rig. You could also try flukes. When you go out on the boat, I would focus on shallow water at first light, then move back out into 25' or more of water and get some Downlines going as the temperature starts climbing if the boat has a fish finder. I know you would like to know spots to go in the boat. Unfortunately I haven't been out recently so I wouldn't be reliable. Use this forum and go back to years past and read the reports of where the fish are and that should be useful. As always, Tightlines!!!

[Gator]

Always catch a channel cat from the bank. Use the usual liver or shrimp on the bottom and you'll get a taker. If you don't get a fish you still get to spend time fishing with the family.

I would troll urigs and not worry too much about live bait fishing. Troll some sassy shad behind the boat. As far as location??.....look for a parking lot of boats. Enjoy