Big Bluegills from shore is a great example of just how easy it is to catch a meal of fish.
With the arrival of spring water temperatures in back bays begin to warm. Once in the low 60’s, bluegills fill these bays looking for a place to spawn. Typically areas located on the north side of the lake are the first to see action. When it comes to gear, an ultra-light rod and reel spooled with 4lb to 6lb test line, #6 long shanked hook teamed with a piece of crawler and a Rocket Bobber is all you really need. The longer shanked hook allows for easier hook removal. Use just enough bait to cover the shank and tip of the hook. Look for openings around old weed growth, standing reeds, bull rush, brush pile or fallen trees. Keys to success are covering water and bite detection. Very seldom do larger gills aggressively attack the bait during this time of year. Many times the bite goes undetected. If any resistance is felt they simply blow the bait out. The Rocket Bobber allows for average casting distances of 30 to 40 yards without any additional weight added. The bobber is designed to lay flat with these light weight pan fish presentations. As soon as the fish inhales the bait the bobber begins to stand up. That’s when you can set the hook. Many times with larger gills the bobber will only go up to a 45 degree angle. Set the hook. These larger fish are light biters. Typical bobbers/floats seldom detect these soft bites. Once you have located these springtime spawning areas take note. Year after year these bluegills will return. As spring transitions to summer the fish will eventually move to deeper water. Pan fish tips and video will address this transition with an upcoming video “Slip bobber fishing for multi species”. Good luck fishing!