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Tips For Fishing Pre-Spawn Bluegills

Until bluegills start spawning these fish can be a little tougher to catch during the pre-spawn period of early spring. Fishing during this period is much like winter fishing bluegills. Once the bluegills start spawning then the fishing action just goes wild.

With the exception of flooded spring rivers lake bluegills will spawn in the same locations year after year. Knowing where bluegills have spawned in the past will be your starting point. Early on first try fishing the deeper water adjacent in about 6 – 12 feet of water. Also keep in mind that bluegills in this depth of water will often suspend so be sure to cover the entire water column. When spawn approaches the male bluegills will show up on the spawning grounds first, typically less than 3 feet of water. This will be your chance for some shallow water fishing. Look for these male gills to start showing up shallow when the water temperature reaches about 60 degrees. Be sure to keep your distance and noise down as to not spook these fish, especially when fishing clear water.

When rigging for pre spawn bluegills it’s hard to beat small ice fishing jig such as a Rat Finkie tipped with a wax worm suspended under a small slip bobber for fishing deeper water. A small regular bobber will work for the shallow waters. Be sure the bobber is no bigger than it has to be. You can also place a small split shot above the jig when fishing deeper water or to help a bigger bobber ride lower in the water. After casting your rig out, lift the rod tip to work the jig back to you about six to ten inches at a time and then let the jig settle again. Many times you will only feel a light biting bluegill when you lift the rod tip. Be sure to experiment with the color of jigs your using, it can make a huge difference at times. I would also recommend using light fishing line no heavier than 6lb test, preferably 4lb test.

The bluegill spawn period starts when the water temperature reaches 67 degrees. Because male bluegills will defend their nests from any perceived invader, such as a jig, they are very simple to catch. All you need to catch fish during the spawn is just a plain jig, no wax worm will be needed. The spawn period is an excellent time to take kids or newcomers to the sport fishing. However, because fish are so vulnerable to over harvest at this time don’t get to crazy. Keep enough for a good meal and throw the rest back.

With fishing bluegills or crappies with jigs your bite and hooking success will increase if you use a tight know that keeps the jig hanging horizontal. After every snag, bite, or catch be sure to readjust where the knot is on the hook ring so the lure is suspended horizontally. Good luck and have fun catching more bluegills this spring.