Bluegill is usually a breeze to catch…
But you really have to know the basics of how to make it work!
So, if you are wondering when is the best time to fish for Bluegill, it helps to learn from the pros. After all, it can be quite tricky to get it started. This is why we are here to help you out.
Keep reading to learn more about the different ways on how to catch a Bluegill. We will share with you the tools you need, techniques to apply, and everything else you need to ensure success in fishing.
Contents
Getting All Set Up – Tools to Use
Before you go ahead and begin fishing, first things first – let us talk about your tools.
It is important to prepare your tackle carefully. This way, you will have everything you need to use for your fishing trip.
Bluegill is basically a type of fish with a small month. Thus, you will need only a smaller hook for it. Even as this fish grows into an adult, it still maintains its smaller mouth. It also feeds on tiny insects.
When choosing the right reel and rod, you need to pay close attention to the size.
We highly recommend that you go for a lighter reel and rod. A lightweight line is also ideal. This way, you will be able to determine the delicate bite a Bluegill makes. As a result, you should have greater success in catching your target.
You should stick to lines that are between 2 and 6 pounds. These are your best bet for fishing for Bluegill.
As for the bait, you have to keep it small.
Like we have mentioned earlier, Bluegill has a smaller mouth. You will need hooks between sizes 6 and 10. These are the most effective hooks to use for this fish.
Choose a hook that comes with a longer shank. This is ideal when it comes to removing the hook from the fish’s mouth.
A wire hook that’s thin and lightweight is also best to use. This is the kind of hook that should be able to accommodate a smaller bait.
Read More: How To Fish For Tilapia In A Pond – Everything You Need to Know
What Is The Best Bait to Use for a Bluegill?
You are better off with using small, live bait. For instance, a nightcrawler is perfect because of how easy it is to find. Also, Bluegills love this type of bait.
You can also choose from other live baits including mealworms, red wrigglers, and grasshoppers. If you prefer to use an artificial lure, this should do fine, too.
In this case, you may go for the black jig and a tiny spinner. However, be sure to stick with small size such as 1/32 ounce or under.
Smart Techniques to Catch a Bluegill
You can apply a wide range of techniques to catch a Bluegill. But as for the best ones, you can choose from the following:
1. Bottom Fishing
This is particularly effective when you are trying to catch this fish species.
You need to cast the bait, then allow it to sink slowly to the bottom.
When performing this technique, you only need to apply the least amount of weight. This way, the bait will go down as slowly as possible.
The reason for this technique is that you do not want the Bluegill to feel any resistance as they pick up the bait.
Thus, you should go for a lightweight rod, as well as a lighter fishing line. These are the right tools to use to cast the bait as seamlessly as possible.
Once the bait hits the bottom, you have to pay close attention to the line. It is possible to get a bite in a matter of minutes. But since the fish bite lightly, you have to be sensitive even to the slightest bite it gets.
2. Bobber Fishing
We also recommend this technique when fishing for Bluegill.
It is particularly ideal during the summer or spring. You should use a worm and bobber to perform this technique successfully.
Bluegill is generally slow. They hardly find any interest in chasing their food. This is why a motionless way of presenting your lure is the right way to go.
Thus, you would want to leave a small bait just hanging underneath your bobber. This will surely be an irresistible treat for your target. We recommend that you use a slip bobber. With this lure, you can catch fish no matter what depth it may be in.
3. Fly Fishing
Lastly, you should try to fly fishing for Bluegill.
You will be amazed to find out that this technique is not just for Trouts. Even Bluegills are great for this technique!
Plus, Bluegills are ravenous eaters. You will not have any problem with luring them in, so you can achieve success with fly fishing.
Just make it a point to use the best flies. In this case, it must be dark and small.
When Is The Best Time to Fish for Bluegill
The perfect time to fish for Bluegill is in the early summer or spring.
These are the seasons when the water is a bit warmer. Thus, Bluegills prefer to remain in shallow waters.
You should check out signs of this fish such as the so-called “elephant tracks.” What this means is that there are round craters, which depict their spawning nests.
The moment you find this tell-tale sign, be as discreet as possible. Keep in mind that Bluegill gets scared easily. Therefore, you need to be very quiet and careful not to spook them out.
If you want to fish in the summer, you should check out areas surrounding brush piles and weed bed edges. Bluegills prefer to remain in deeper water where it is cooler. So, you also need to check them out in these locations.
Learn more about the different tricks you can apply to catch Bluegills in this informative video:
