EQUIPMENT & TECHNIQUE

Reading the Water

In the early spring, some insects like the water boatmen appear to have more energy than most and move swiftly to the surface. Look for pan fish splashing violently in the water, chasing them for food.

During the summer, the larger bluegills seek deeper, cooler water, leaving the juveniles and shallowwater weed edges and the docks. Dawn is really the best time to fish because the water has had a chance to cool overnight, encouraging fish to be active near the surface. They may have followed emerging mayflies or caddis to the surface during the night and may still be eating.

Beaver often drop trees along a shoreline which fall partially into the water. The drowned treetop becomes home to aquatic insects and attracts bluegills. Casting into the partially submerged branches can get action.

You should try night fishing, as well. During mid-July and into August, many aquatic insects emerge during the night. The "slurp, slurp" of feeding fish can be very evident on a still summer night. Casting towards the sounds can get you a few bluegills, or even a smallmouth bass, crappie, or a marauding largemouth bass.

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