When & How We Catch 'Em
We will fish as you desire, but my best expertise is with striped bass, using live bait below the dams. I will also be happy to pursue the species of your choice, using the following timing and methods, which I've found to be the most productive.

Crappie
I've found that spider-rigging with live minnows in both deep and shallow water is the most productive and relaxing way to fish for crappie. Casting jigs, vertical jigging or using bobbers may be your preference.
February 15-March 31: Deep water (pre-spawn)
April 1-May 15: Shallow water

Bass
March 15-October 31: Slip-and-drag with live bait
April 15-June 30: Live crawfish
Year-round: Artificial

Bluegill & Redear
April 15-June 15

Striped Bass
I've found that there are longer and better opportunities to catch striped bass below the dams than with any other species.
June 1-October 31, with excellent succes July 15-October 15

White Bass
July 1-August 31

Sauger
August 1-March 31: Below dams, conditions permitting

Catfish
Year-round

Throwing a castnet for shad, the preferred bait for striped bass