How to Catch Bluegill

Bluegill are easily spooked but one of the most common pan fish to catch. While they are not hard to catch, you can follow some simple steps to catch more. Bluegill are a schooling fish so where there is one, there are plenty more.

Things You Will Need

Tackle box
Fishing pole
Bait
Net
Stringer
Rabbit food pellets

Catch Bluegill with a lightweight rod and reel with 2 - 6 pound line. Use size 6, 8 or 10 hooks. A bobber should be 12 - 18 inches from the hook but possibly more as they prefer cooler water and you may need to go deeper. A small split shot sinker should be 8 - 10 inches from the hook.

Use worms, grubs, 1 inch baby crawfish, 1 inch minnows or bread to catch this pan fish. They aren't picky, the bait just has to be small enough for the fish's mouth.

They will be found in weed beds in clear water where bait fish tend to hide. While fishing in the spring, look for spawning beds in shallow waters. They will not be far away. They tend to school so there will be more than one of these pan fish around.

Bluegill also favor areas that appear hard to fish. They will hide in fallen trees, debris and rocky areas in the water. Don't overlook these areas as they will be there and like the shade offered there.

In areas where it is legal, Bluegill can be chummed. Chum them by throwing rabbit pellets in the same spot, every day at the same time before you plan on fishing. They will "train" to come for the food. Once Bluegill are "chummed", fish that area. They tend to school, so get your line back in the water quickly.

Once a Bluegill is on your hook, set the hook gently, strong yanks on the pole may result in tearing through their mouth. Reel it in and get the line out quick to catch more.