Fishing-Headquarters Magazine

Kankakee River State Park.

Will County, Illinois Fishing-Headquarters.com

Photograph by Michael Planthaber |

March / April, 2011

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Fishing-Headquarters Magazine Volume 1. Issue 3.

March & April, 2011 Spring Issue

About the Fishing-Headquarters The Fishing-Headquarters began as a small homepage featuring a collection of photos and YouTube fishing videos. It even featured a small contingency of misfits and rebellious anglers who were tired of the internet elitism and racism expressed by other websites towards specific groups of anglers and species of freshwater gamefish.

Formally established in January 2007, the FHQ was created for like-minded anglers to share the wealth of information, and enjoy the beauty in diverse fishing. This greatness as we presently know it is multi-species fishing.

Designed and created by posessed and gravely obsessed angler, Andrew Ragas, the website has grown to a large world audience. Our basis as an online media platform is to drop the ego, and catch anything that swims and has fins.

All fish are created as equals. Only to be pursued as opposites.

Important Biz Stuff http://www.fishing-headquarters.com info@fishing-headquarters.com andrew@fishing-headquarters.com telephone - 708. 256. 2201 Questions or Comments, and if interested in contributing or sponsoring, please contact Andrew Ragas at: andrew@fishing-headquarters.com Magazine layout and design by Ragas Media http://www.ragasmedia.com

• Running with Walleyes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 • Inland Striped Bass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 • Coastal Fishing: American Shad Runs . . . . . 35 • Great Lakes Tributary Steelheads . . . . . . . . 45 • Trap Attack Bass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 • Get Dirty with Backwater Pike . . . . . . . . . . . 73 • Illinois River Sauger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 • Tackle Logic: Let’s Talk Jigs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 COVER STORY The spring season represents a seasonal rebirth for all of the living. As the ice melts and water temperatures rise, fish of all species awaken from their winter doldrums and begin to feed heavily in preparation for the spawn.

Showcasing our spring issue was this photograph of a mega Central Illinois largemouth bass caught

by FHQ Contributor, Kenny Lookingbill. Measured at 23 inches and estimated at nearly 8 pounds, this fish was caught with a lipless crankbait.

Learn more about fishing with lipless crankbaits by turning to page 59.

Fishing-Headquarters Issue-3 It is within our beliefs that you enjoy reading the articles and looking at photos with captions as much as we enjoyed putting this issue together. Over the course of the 2011 season, we hope to continue making improvements to the content, layout, and ideas of Fishing-Headquarters Magazine so that we have all seasonal fishing topics of interest covered for a large and diverse audience.

For example, you may already notice a slight facelift in terms of design for Issue-3 and beyond. It looks a lot better, right?

Andrew Ragas

Editor In-Chief, Designer, and Owner.

2011 Issue Releases Remaining Schedule

• Issue 4: May 15, 2011 • Issue 5: July 15, 2011 • Issue 6: September 15, 2011 • Issue 7: November 15, 2011

Click to Subscribe

We would like to personally thank the individuals and readers who sent us positive, encouraging, and kind messages, and enjoyed reading our first two issues that were released on 11-22-2010, and 1/20/2011, respectively. With positive news and outcomes such as this, we hope to eventually make something out of this venture that could lead to a print magazine, job opportunities, profit, and more within the fishing industry.

Lastly, we would like to thank our friends, anglers, and team of writers and website bloggers who have dedicated themselves to provide and contribute their knowledge, experiences, and content into this publication. Without their assistance, nothing like this would be possible.

This will be a FREE internet publication. Good things are set to come in 2011.

Thank you for reading our third issue of Fishing-Headquarters Magazine.

Copyright © 2011 Fishing-Headquarters.

All rights reserved. The usage of articles, excerpts, photographs, and any reproduction of this material is strictly prohibited.

ISSUE 3 FEATURED WRIT

Jim Gronaw

Blake Hamilton

Kenny Lookingbill

Submitted Photographs • Frank Weilnhammer • Michael Planthaber • Nate Tessler • Thomas Harris • Dan Sims • David Mannion • Zack Wallin Layout and Design By • Ragas Media Designs Sponsors and Advertising Partners • Bearpaw’s Handpoured Baits • CB’s Hawg Sauce • Heartland Outdoors • Ragas Media Designs • Sims Spinners Inc. • Stankx Bait Company • Time on the Water Outdoors SEEKING SPONSORS AND ADVERTISING PARTNERS FOR 2011 SEASON! With over 5,000 readers, you will get more than just your share of business opportunities with us. Contact us and we will be thrilled to supply you with our resumes, a 2011 season media kit, and more!

TERS AND CONTRIBUTORS

David Graham

Roy Vivian

Bryan Blazek

LEADING OFF.

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GOOD RIDDANCE. Sometime before March: “Today it felt like spring may be on the horizon in an impossibly long winter. I haven’t had any fishing to report, so here are a few images from Wisconsin. Ice blue, clean water with trout in sight, and those wonderful air bubbles locked in ice we have all pressed our noses against the ice to see.”

Photograph by Thomas Harris Fishing-Headquarters | Page 6

LEADING OFF.

First Light on the Water.

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Photograph by Michael Planthaber ďż˝

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Running with Walleyes.

The world famous Maumee River, Ohio, Walleye Run. Andrew Ragas Fishing-Headquarters.com

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According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the annual walleye run up the Maumee River is one of the largest migrations of riverbound walleyes east of the Mississippi.

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RUNNING WITH WALLEYES. Back in April of 2009, I had one of my most enjoyable spring fishing trips ever.

Joined by friends, Mike Goode, John Dyers, and Ohio resident Nate Tessler, I traveled 300 miles east from Chicago to Perrysburg, Ohio, where we fished the Maumee River for a long weekend.

The Maumee River is legBy: Andrew Ragas endary and well known within the Editor In-Chief andrew@ďŹ shing-headquarters.com Great Lakes region as walleyes by the thousands migrate from Lake Erie into this river system to spawn.

According to the Ohio Division of Wildlife, the annual walleye run up the Maumee River is one of the largnother spring season is est migrations of riverbound wallquickly approaching. In my opin- eyes east of the Mississippi River. ion, there is no better way to begin For up to two months, anglers by the open water season than to run the hundreds enjoy catching their with infinite amounts of fish during daily walleye limits by fishing contheir seasonal spawning migrations. centrated fish spawning sites shoul-

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der-to-shoulder.

Fishing a few feet away from hundreds of other fishermen is intimidating. I was terrified at first and my participation on this trip was questionable. Despite these fears, I did not let them prevent me from enjoyment.

Privileged to experience this legendary run, I quickly learned that we don’t get anything like this in Illinois.

Beginning in March and lasting until early May, the Maumee River walleye run is driven by a number of factors that includes water temperature, river currents, and hours of daylight. Peak spawning occurs anytime from March through April when water temperatures are in the range of 42 to 55 degrees. However, best activity frequently occurs the last week of March through the first

The crowds get much worse than this in some locations, indicating how popular of an event the walleye run truly is. This photo was taken at Side Cut Park in Maumee, Ohio.

Photograph by Andrew Ragas

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first week of April.

Typical spawning habitat of the river is comprised of swift hard bottomed mid-river current runs with a composition of gravel and rock.

Depths are usually shallow in the range of 3 to 6 feet. It is common for several dozen spawning male walleyes to be concentrated and relating to the same 50 foot stretch of bottom structure.

The majority of the walleyes that are present in the river to spawn are males, locally referred as “Jacks”.

Running at an average length of 19 to 24 inches and weights of two to four pounds, the aggressive males eagerly take your jig in almost any situation. While females are sharing the waters with the more abundant Jacks, they tend to be less aggressive, their presence goes unnoticed, and their population numbers are low in comparison. Catching fish larger than 10 pounds is possible, but if caught, it is suggested to release the females as they replenish

Floating Jig (Mister Twister)

Nate Tessler sets his hook into a walleye.

Long rods with a medium action enable you to detect bites and fight fish through the strong current.

Photograph by Andrew Ragas

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RUNNING WITH WALLEYES.

Photograph by Andrew Ragas

Notice how this 22 incher was hooked near its eyeball and not inside of the mouth? For fear of getting in trouble with a CPO, I had to let this one go. This proof of how thick the ďŹ sh are concentrated during the run. the system with future generations of fish, and enable future walleye runs to take place. This is the unwritten courtesy rule of the river.

This fantastic run of walleye is an excellent period of fishing for anglers who do not have access to boats and cannot fish Lake Erie. In order to get up close and personal with Maumee River walleyes, wading is generally the best way to fish

the run.

What makes the walleye run unique is the special regulations and strict management set forth by the Ohio Division of Wildlife. First, nighttime fishing is banned from March 1st through May 1st. This allows for the migratory walleye to move into their spawning sites to lay eggs, unmolested. Second, the daily bag limit of six fish per day

3 inch Twister Tail (Mister Twister)

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at 15 inches is reduced to just four fish during this two month period.

Thanks to the heavy angling pressure, this reduced bag limit helps conserve the naturally-spawning fish populations. Third a hook size regulation is also in effect. It is unlawful for anglers to use a line with more than one single hook attached.

This means no lures with treble hooks, or hook sizes larger than one-half inch from shank to point.

Lastly, because of how concentrated the walleye numbers are during the run, some will be accidentally snagged with even a single hook.

Consequently all snagged fish must be returned.

As previously noted with the hundreds of other fishermen I

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would be sharing the water with, I was also intimidated by these special regulations.

With all of these factors being included in the game plan, a typical day of fishing the run occurs from sunrise to sunset. Anglers by the dozens arrive daily at the river by dawn, reserving their spots by sunrise, then fishing and focusing their efforts on shallow current runs with hard bottom.

During my two days of fishing the run, I failed to catch my limit.

However, friends and seasoned veterans of the run, John Dyers and Nate Tessler, scored limits on both days.

Fishing the walleye run requires a learning curve as the type of fishing experienced is far different than anything else you may ever come across. For example, I learned the stubborn way. Here on our northern Illinois rivers, I traditionally fish with lighter gear: Six and a half foot St. Croix medium action rods with size 20 Quantum Energy spinning reels spooled with 6 lb. copolymer line. My personal experience called for me to try my proven finesse methods first, before switching over to what actually works best for the run.

If you fish this run, forget about finesse. Power and strength will be needed.

For half the day on day 1, while witnessing Johnny and Nate catch their limits in less than four hours, I caught nothing by utilizing my light gear approach. Light bites, strong river currents, and poor rod strength led to futility and lack of fish on the stringer. It was after our lunch break when I realized that I had made a mistake by not choosing to fish with my much stronger 7 ft. medium heavy action rod with size 30 Quantum Energy reel spooled

John Dyers poses with his 22 inch walleye.

Although no big females were caught during our trip, this was the largest of the Jacks that were caught.

Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing Headquarters | Page 14

RUNNING WITH WALLEYES. with 10 lb. copolymer line. Not planning to originally fish with this heavier rod and reel combination, I was at least smart enough to pack it in the car.

I was finally onto fish as soon as I made the switch over to the heavier gear during the afternoon hours.

Due to the special angling regulations, approximately 100 percent of the anglers you will come across will be using a simple fishing approach. The best mode of angling is to present the fish a floating jig rig.

This simple rig is like your typical Due to its bottom hugging and Carolina rig used for bass fishing, floating capabilities, this rig ulticonsisting of the following compo- mately enables you to present your nents: bait longer in the water column and over the spawning sites before the • 3/8 oz. sliding egg sinker (use heavi- current sweeps it away. Other than er weight depending on the current). long casts and keeping up with the current which controls the presen• Barrel swivel. tation and retrieve, it requires very • 2 foot leader: 12 to 14 lb. fluorocar- little physical effort.

Typical rods and reels used bon preferred. Pre-tie your leaders beduring the run range in lengths from forehand.

6 ½ to 7 ½ feet long. Standard rod • Floating jig in bright colors tipped actions are usually medium but I with fluorescent 3 inch twister tails. prefer a 7 foot medium heavy action

Imagination Illustration: Maumee River Walleyes

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or greater due to longer casting distance, fighting the current and powerful hook-sets. As far as line goes, 8 to 12 pound abrasion-resistant copolymers work exceptionally well.

Although I never caught my limit of walleyes (came up 1 fish short each day), I enjoyed a great time with friends, and was able to learn about this unique approach to fishing.

The Maumee River is a big river and must be respected like all other flowing bodies of water. Safety and knowledge of regulations should always be the highest priority. In addition, being polite and respectful of all the other anglers who will be sharing your fishing spot is necessary. You never know when borrowing your neighbor’s landing net may come in handy.

The river setting will be far from peaceful and quiet with the hordes of anglers that will be around.

If abundant walleyes are on tap for your spring fishing schedule, there are 8 weeks during the season to accomplish it.

From the mouth of Lake Erie in Toledo, downstream 10 miles past the town of Perrysburg, the river is loaded with an abundance of access areas, fishing spots, and opportunities to catch daily limits.

Make reservations. This April marks my first return trip since 2009. Within reasonable distance from northern Illinois, there is no better place in the Midwest region to find walleye fishing as good as this!

For the best up-to-date Walleye Run information, visit the following websites: www.walleyerun.com www.maumeetackle.net www.thenaturalresource.com

Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing Headquarters | Page 16

RUNNING WITH WALLEYES.

WATERVILLE

SATELLITE MAP

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This Google Satellite Image points to some of the more productive there is no shortage of river access, much of which is public parks.

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MAUMEE PERRYSBURG

water within the range of the run. Surrounded by the towns of Rossford, Perrysburg, Maumee, and Waterville, The spawning runs are plentiful as the shallow river bottom is made of rock and gravel that is well oxygenated.

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RUNNING WITH WALLEYES.

Get in line, catch a fish.

The Maumee River is a big river and must be respected like all other flowing bodies of water. Safety and knowledge of regulations should always be the highest priority. In addition, being polite and respectful of all the other anglers who will be sharing your fishing spot is necessary. You never know when borrowing your neighbor’s landing net may come in handy. The river setting will be far from peaceful and quiet with the hordes of anglers that will be around. If abundant walleyes are on tap for your spring fishing schedule, there are 8 weeks during the season to accomplish it.

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Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing-Headquarters | Page 20

RUNNING WITH WALLEYES.

John Dyers brings in a Jack.

Having a landing net is a convenience during situations like this.

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Photograph by Andrew Ragas ďż˝

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RUNNING WITH WALLEYES.

John Dyers and Nate Tessler hold up their day-1 limits of 4 fish apiece.

From March 1st through May 1st, regulations are 4 fish per day at a length of 15 inches.

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Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing-Headquarters | Page 24

INLAND STRIPED BASS.

STRIPERS Sweet and Salt Jim Gronaw

My son, Matt Gronaw, caught and released this outstanding 36 inch striper from Piney Run on a Lucky Craft Pointer 128.

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Photographs by Jim Gronaw / Susquehanna Flats Aerial Backdrop by Maryland DNR.

By: Jim Gronaw

Fishing-Headquarters Contributor

F

or years, I had heard about the catch and release striper season on the Susquehanna Flats complex at the top of the Chesapeake Bay. Stories of fish of 30, 40, even 50 pounds or more are caught, photographed and released every spring season. This sounded like a great fishing gig! Literally the Mecca for giant, shallow water cows that could tow the boat. And even if you didn’t catch a giant, there were tales of many, many fish of all sizes. Many methods would work, and different times would be productive.

So, when I got a call from Ronald Dorsey, of Bel Air, last April,

that he was into a bunch of lighttackle stripers, well, I just had to beg Linda for the chance to sample these powerhouse fish. Ron and his friends had been having good success with 3 to 10 pound class fish on a variety of lures to include jerkbaits, jigs with plastics and top waters. Not those huge, cow stripers we had all heard about, but lots of numbers. The week previous he had one trip where they landed over 50 fish from his 20-foot Crestliner, and several other trips with a count of 20 to 30 fish caught. Let’s see… dozens of 3 to 10 pound fish that smack topwaters or jigs and sizzle off on scorching light-tackle runs?

Did I want any of that? Yup!! I was stoked!

We would actually be fishing on one of the final days on the flats before the catch and release season closed. As Ron explained, a wave of younger, male striped bass had entered the system and the average size was perfect for light, 8 pound test spinning gear. Most of the bigger, female fish had already spawned and were making their way back out of the flats and down the bay. Different pulses of fish enter the Susquehanna throughout the

spring. They will vary in size and usually school according to such.

We launched out of Harve de Grace and went just a mile or so and began drift-casting along the northeast section of the flats. This is a huge, 30 square mile basin at the top of the Chesapeake Bay. It is shallow throughout and has a few channel areas and deeper pockets. It would be ill advised to go it alone if you have never been here, as you can get stuck on a sand bar for 6 hours waiting for the tide to change. Fishing with a veteran like Ron made it nice.

Almost immediately, we stated tagging stripers on jerk baits such as the Rapala Husky Jerk # 12 and I used a Lucky Craft Pointer 100 in a shad pattern. Most strikes came as solid hits, and the fish would whistle off on a brief run and then dog it all the way to the boat in typical striped bass fashion. Ron used Bass Pro Shop Inshore Extreme 6 ½ foot rods and 8 pound test Fireline. I used 20 pound Stren Sonic Braid. Both lines allowed long, smooth casts and afforded the sensitivity and hookset power needed when fish struck far Fishing-Headquarters | Page 28

INLAND STRIPED BASS.

Photograph by Jim Gronaw

Ron Dorsey with a great light tackle striper. Tagged stripers like this specimen are used for DNR info and progression of the striped bass fishery. from the boat on the end of the cast.

It was a clear and relatively calm day and we didn’t have many issues with boat positioning. Casting on the edge of some upper bay grass beds kept us on the fish as different small schools and pods of stripers would smash our baits.

We didn’t get any giants, but I’ll tell you what…we caught and released 31 stripers in a brief, four hour stint. The fish were true to form and ran three to seven pounds, as Ron had said. These are great fish on light tackle and about all you would want on 6 or 8 pound line. Earlier in the morning, his good friend in another boat, had landed a 16 and an 18 pounder on similar sized gear.

We had a bunch of doubles. What a hoot!

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If you have never caught a striped bass then I guess you would put it somewhere with powerhouse salmonoids of the Great Lakes region for fighting strength and endurance. Scale the tackle accordingly and numbers of ‘decent’ fish are just plain fun. Of course, being primarily a panfish freak, anything over a couple pounds seems huge to me! We closed out the day with a run of only a mile back to the docks, and hopes of doing this again next year when the stripers cram the Susquehanna.

Meanwhile, in a lake not far away . . . .

Stripers roam, in some lakes throughout the Mid-Atlantic, some

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are huge. The Maryland freshwater striper record is 47 ½ pounds from Liberty Lake, 20 miles west of Baltimore. The Pennsylvania record is 52 pounds, 11 ounces and came from Raystown Lake in Huntington County. Many other regional lakes have either recent or remnant populations of freshwater stripers that still provide action for those willing to refine tactics and persue them. In Maryland, Liberty, Piney Run and Triadelphia Lakes currently have stripers and the Quaker State has Raystown, Blue Marsh, Beltzville, Redman, and Pinchot holding stripers and hybrid stripers from past stockings. In northeast Pennsylvania is 5,900 acre Lake Wallenpaupack. Along with Raystown, Wallenpaupack may be the only viable �

Rapala Husky Jerk 12 ice-fisheries for stripers in the United States. Stripers in the 20 to 30 pound class have come through the ice from both lakes over the years.

That is just CRAZY! Freshwater stripers are different, yet the same, as the saltwater clan. They like to roam in schools, get under some baitfish and crash up through them, just like they do in the brine. They will make movements upstream and enter tight, riverine environs in an effort to spawn.

Be at the right place at the right time and you can do quite well from the

shore. In lakes like Virginia’s Lake Anna, Kerr and Gaston, they key on shad based forage types and show favoritism to herring when they spawn. In smaller lakes like Piney Run or Pinchot, it’s usually a panfish quest or a run for gizzard or threadfin shad.

Where golden shiners exist, there can be a good early spring bite on stripers chasing these fish as waters get to the upper 40’s and low 50’s. The shiners will move in shallow on wood cover and mix it up with prespawn crappie. At that

time and they both can be an easy meal for big fish of several species.

Tossing suspended jerk baits like Lucky Craft Pointer 128’s or Rapala Husky Jerks will take fish as shallow as 18 inches off of downed trees or beaver lodges. Many anglers just don’t believe this, thinking it must be a ‘bass-only’ pattern. But, nope, it works for stripers, too.

My son Matt and I have each taken several 36- inch class stripers chucking these baits to the wood.

When water temps are below 50, very slow retrieves with long pauses

Nice 14 pounder just before the release.

Photograph by Jim Gronaw Fishing-Headquarters | Page 30

INLAND STRIPED BASS.

Lucky Craft Pointer 100

can get the stripers attention. Strikes seem to come in two forms…it’s either a soft, almost crappie-like bump or else it’s an all-out explosion. But once the fish is hooked, it’s like a runaway freight train. We spool up with Sonic Braid at 20 pound test and use a 15 pound test mono leader to secure the lure. Rods should be 6 ½ to 7 ½ feet and have sensitivity yet backbone to handle these fish. Reels should have excellent drags, as a 75- yard initial run is not unusual.

Expect long, tension-filled battles with these fish that just don’t quit.

Get them in, take the photos and revive them to fight again. Cold water stripers release well, and delayed mortality is not a concern unless the fish is deeply hooked. In freshwater

lakes throughout the Mid-Atlantic, three- foot long stripers are considered trophies among all but the most elite of striper anglers.

Sadly, most all freshwater venues for stripers are determined by stocking ratios to sustain the fisheries. In todays angling world, money talks, with other species getting the overwhelming percentage of fishery management dollars. With a huge resource of saltwater stripers in the Chesapeake and adjoining coastal states, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia do not always put striped bass stocking on the front burner. Most of those programs have ceased. The huge sprawling reservoirs of the south and mid –west can answer the call for these great

The Susquehanna Flats at the head of the Chesapeake Bay is dynamite striper territory in April and May. Fishing-Headquarters.com

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and adaptable game fish. But back east, I’ll settle for a combination of both sweet and saltwater stripers to shatter my nerves and keep the drags screaming. Some fisheries are emerging and some are fizzling out.

But me…I’m just glad they’re here for now, in numbers and in size.

Jim Gronaw, 59, of Westminster, Maryland, has been a Fishing-Headquarters blogger and contributor since January, 2010. Jim is a contributor for In-Fisherman, and has been published over 600 times both nationally and regionally for various publications such as In-Fisherman, Outdoor Life, Fishing Facts, and Sports Afield.

Photograph by Jim Gronaw �

Photograph by Jim Gronaw Fishing Headquarters | Page 32

INLAND STRIPED BASS.

My personal best freshwater striper at 37 inches taken on light gear.

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AMERICAN SHAD.

Coastal Fishing: American Shad Runs An East Coast Phenomenon That Occurs Once a Year.

This is our South Carolina Version of the Story.

By: David Graham

Fishing-Headquarters Contributor

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Photograph by David Graham Fishing-Headquarters | Page 36

AMERICAN SHAD.

Photograph by David Graham

In South Carolina, shad fishing has become a very popular pastime, specifically along Berkeley County’s Tail Race Canal below the Pinopolis Lock and Dam.

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n the world of fishing and amongst those who love it, when one considers great migrations the first mental imagery is the seasonal spawning runs of salmon. It is difficult to fathom the incredible gauntlet these fish run as they travel up to two thousand miles from the ocean to the freshwater rivers of their birth.

These creatures must swim so far upstream against not only changing currents, but at times hurdle small waterfalls, predators, and of course the ever-present anglers. This, truly, is one of the most remarkable migrations in the animal kingdom. For a southern fisherman like me, this phenomenon is something we may Fishing-Headquarters.com

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only dream of experiencing.

I have often reflected on the possibility of tangling with a fish so rich in history and folklore. It is sheer joy to pursue a fish which has traveled so far against innumerable odds and unimaginable obstacles to reach its spawning grounds. To be the one element that this fish has, by attrition, naturally proven its self more resilient, cunning, and endearing than thousands of its counterparts which failed to make it to the same point along the way, is the strongest point of pride I could derive from the experience of pulling such an impressive creature from the water.

The salmon run, however, is not the only impressive seasonal spawning migration of the sort. In

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fact, there is another species of fish which, with equal intensity, makes its way from the oceans to our rivers to complete its natural cycle of life.

Right under the nose of most Southeastern anglers is a fish few would consider worthy of consideration as a game species, yet which has all the credentials to be wholly considered a member of that category.

The American Shad is the largest species of herring in North America, growing up to two feet in length and six pounds. They can be found along the entire Atlantic Coast from Florida to Canada. They are an anadromous species, meaning they spend the majority of their life at sea and travel into freshwater through rivers for their annual spawn run. �

Photograph by David Graham Fishing-Headquarters | Page 38

AMERICAN SHAD. The spawn run occurs in early spring and can continue for about three months, during which time these fish will be the primary target of an abundance of predatory species from saltwater to fresh as they travel in immense schools. In addition to the element of predation, these fish must often navigate through a myriad of man-made tolls including dams, fish-lifts, and lake systems.

American Shad generally begin to appear around mid-March, when the larger females will be escorted by a number of males.

In South Carolina, shad fishing has become a very popular pastime, specifically along Berkeley County’s Tail Race Canal below the Pinopolis Lock and Dam. Here, vying

for the ‘good spot’ is competitive, often motivating anglers to arrive before darkness yields to daylight, simply to line up along the shoreline.

Because these fish spawn during the night, the most active bite comes during the morning. Although the fish will continue to bite all day, there is a slowing down as the sun reaches its highest point.

With a primary diet in zooplankton, micro-crustaceans, and small fish, anglers often experience great success using small artificial lures during the spawn.

Among the anglers along the South Carolina Tailrace Canal, the most popular method has been small lead head jigs with curly tail grubs attached. Many anglers will

tie several of these grubs onto their lines when the fish are very active; it is not unusual to catch more than one fish at a time.

Like their distant cousin, the Tarpon, American Shad put up an outstanding fight, making a series of acrobatic leaps and full breach aereal shows, much to the delight of any angler seeking a first-rate battle. These fish travel primarily in the lower part of the water column, so baits and lures should accommodate accordingly, to avoid a top water pattern. Unlike salmon, shad retain the ability to digest and assimilate food during the anadromous migration.

American Shad have a very tender mouth combined with a particularly strong set of shoulders.

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This presents a unique challenge to the angler who must demonstrate a high degree of finesse if he/she intends to successfully land the fish without having the lure lobbed back into his face. Light tackle is generally sufficient for these fish, although a large female can exceed six pounds and will fight with great vigor and seemingly endless stamina.

‘Nuff Said!

Why fish for shad? Aside from the fast action and sheer numbers of fish an angler can enjoy during the spawn run, the roe from a large female is considered a delicacy for many. The double sac which contains millions of tiny eggs can be cooked with a light dusting of flower to create a fine crust. With the additional of bacon, lemon, pepper and parsley, a fine feast ensues.

Shad roe is a low-calorie, highcholesterol food, and is a highly popular dish in the Southeast; a variety of recipes are available online.

Shad ‘meat’ is actually quite bony, but is high in omega 3 fatty acids and low in toxins. Aside from table fare, cut shad is popular bait for catfish anglers, particularly along the Santee Cooper River. Many serious catfish anglers are also serious shad fishermen during this opportune time to stock up on bait.

For an angler seeking simply to gain more knowledge and to become a more complete angler, the American Shad is a very attainable, yet formidable foe. It is a fish with unparalleled character and all the desired qualities to ensure an enjoyable and challenging fishing experience.

Photograph by David Graham Fishing-Headquarters | Page 40

AMERICAN SHAD.

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Photograph by David Graham

David Graham, of Greenville, South Carolina, has been a Fishing-Headquarters member and contributor since it’s beginning days in 2007. A 2010 graduate from The Citadel Military College of South Carolina, Graham’s passions in fishing are focused on the monster fish and lesser-desired species such as Alligator Gar, Longnose Gar, Blue Catfish, Buffalofish, and Grass Carp. His favorite fishing destinations are in the Southeastern United States, especially South Carolina and Arkansas. Graham currently frequents several online venues such as Roughfish.com, and Garfishing. com. In order to contact him, you may find him online at Facebook, or send e-mail to davidg2006@aol.com More articles by David Graham, focusing on monster fish adventures, will be published in our upcoming summer 2011 issues.

Photograph by David Graham Fishing-Headquarters | Page 42

TRIBUTARY STEELHEADS.

STEELHEAD eF h t S U C C E S S On

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By: Blake Hamilton

Fishing-Headquarters Contributor

Photograph by Blake Hamilton Fishing-Headquarters.com

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s winter slowly releases the Great Lakes region from its icy grip, it becomes apparent that spring is on its way. Snow melt, spring showers, and warmer temperatures cause local tributaries to swell. The quick influx of fresh water into the river system and rising water temperatures attract spawning fish by the hundreds (if not thousands) into the river systems.

Its steelhead season in Southeast Wisconsin and thing are just about to heat up.

Spring is a high percentage time to find spawning steelhead in Lake Michigan’s tributaries. Three out of the four strains stocked in Lake Michigan spawn between late February and the end of May. The Skamania and Chambers Creek strains enter the systems late in the previous year. Plenty of these fish will hold over through the winter in the rivers and will finally spawn the following spring. Skamanias typically spawn first right around the end of the winter (late February) followed closely by the Chambers Creek in the early spring (between March and April). Meanwhile, the Ganaraskas don’t enter the river until spring and they typically are the last ones to drop their eggs, right around the end of the spring (April through May).

With so many fish moving into the river systems, Wisconsin truly is a fly fisherman’s paradise that offers anglers a chance to tangle with some big and strong lake run fish from the fall salmon run all the way through to the beginning of summer.

looks a lot like the winter season anywhere else. Freezing temperatures and chances for snow or rain are still highly possible. Anglers should be cognizant of the weather before heading out to fish.

There is so much more to consider than just the weather itself when is comes to steelheading.

Such factors are water clarity, water temperature, river height are important, but the current flow is by far the most critical of all.

after the initial spike subsides, rain is the only thing left to influence “flow”. After a good rain the small rivers will peak quick and drop quick. The larger watersheds will take more time to rise and are slower to go back down.

The USGS monitors river discharge and river height. They publish their information online in easy to read graphs. The water discharge is measured by CFS (cubic feet per second) and the height is measured

Spring is a high percentage time to find spawning steelhead in Lake Michigan’s tributaries. Pictured with a double are Tom Harris and Keith Jasch.

Current flow can be described as the volume of water that is passing through a given river per second.

Increases in the flow act as a stimulators that draw in fresh fish in from the harbors and lake. When water levels are on the rise, steelhead become motivated to push further up river in search of acceptable spawning gravel beds.

Early season snow melt is the first thing that impacts a river’s flow. Years with modest amounts of snow, expect to find the early flow Fishing Conditions much lower. Conversely, years with large snow melts expect the startEarly March in Wisconsin ing season flows to be much higher.

in feet. It’s important to first understand what a safe flow is for wading and knowing at what level your river fishes best.

Once you understand gauge heights and all other numbers, timing is the only thing standing in your way. Small rivers like the Pike River in Kenosha, Wisconsin fish best between 50-110 CFS. Medium rivers like the Root River in Racine, Wisconsin fish best between 100220 CFS and larger rivers like the Milwaukee River in Milwaukee, Wisconsin fish best between 200 to Fishing-Headquarters | Page 46

TRIBUTARY STEELHEADS.

Photograph by Blake Hamilton

Once the females start to move on to their beds they are typically easy targets to spot and usually very aggressive to anything swimming through their nest.

350 CFS. The USGS will give you the current river flow in real time and will plot this information on the graph.

Studying these graphs will help you to understand when fresh fish are moving into the rivers. They are key indicators to the beginning and end of spawning runs. The USGS will help you pattern fish based on flows without ever stepping foot out of the house. You will be quickly able to identify if the water is on the rise or the fall. Lastly, they will also save you some wasted time driving to a river when its blown out or running high and muddy.

Locations Ever hear the saying that 10% Fishing-Headquarters.com

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of the water holds 90% of the fish?

This saying holds true here. But where do you start?

Deep Water, skinny water, slack water, fast water, pools, runs, riffles, bends and cuts will all hold fish, but breaking down an individual river takes hours of exploration.

Rivers are best learned during those periods when river levels and flows are at their lowest. Getting intimate with every high percentage spot will serve you well when the water is considerably higher. If you also fish for salmon in the fall it’s always good to pay special attention to where the salmon stack because come spring, steelhead will capitalize on many of the same gravel beds.

Early in the season and after

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big rain the deeper pools down and around the river mouth can be hot producers.

As fish have time to migrate and make their way through the river focus your attention to the best pools, runs and riffles. Any natural or man-made barriers are also instant hot spots. Lunker structures and undercut banks are fish magnets and will usually always have at least one fish tucked underneath.

Pools around dams and beneath natural rock barriers are areas where numerous fish will congregate at any given time. Areas where rivers contract create natural funnels and shouldn’t be over looked.

Once the females start to move on to their beds they are typically easy targets to spot and usually �

very aggressive to anything swimming through their nest. Slack water downstream for nesting females are good spots to find males waiting for to the chance to push up a mate. Sight fishing is a lot harder in the spring than it is in comparison to fall. Steelhead are much better at remaining hidden than Chinooks are. When conditions are super clear they feel exposed and threatened and will often hold under cover or in the deeper sections of the river.

When rivers are stained, steelhead will feel more at ease in skinnier water situations.

My best suggestion for putting a pattern together is to stay mobile and switch flies often. We normally sight fish the best looking runs first and then slow down the pace to work the deeper slack water pools that are directly adjacent. If nothing happens right away, change up your fly pattern give yourself 10 more minutes.

After that, make a new move.

It is common for us to be out for a half day and cover several miles of water in that time span. Just because there was fish there yesterday speaks nothing for today. Fish are constantly moving throughout the river spurred on by the ever-fluctuating water levels. Once you establish a pattern of both location and presentation it makes picking spots more efficient and a lot easier.

Purple Egg Sucking Leech

Photo courtesy, Thomas Harris Fishing-Headquarters | Page 48

TRIBUTARY STEELHEADS. Presentation Picks The specific situations certain fly patterns should be used. The following flies should be in any steelhead angler’s arsenal.

Streamers: Black Egg Sucking Leech

Streamers should be a mainstay in any steelhead angler’s fly box. Most are fished down and then across the current on what is called the “swing”. Typically, this would be done with a sinking line but can still be pulled off with the normal weight-forward floating line. The acceleration on the down swing is usually what triggers strikes from aggressive fish.

Streamers and wet flies are versatile and can also be stripped across the slack water pools, one of my favorite techniques, which sometimes results in the most explosives strikes of all. Getting down the right cadence is important and most strikes come just after the first strip following a pause. Your rod will load up with pressure and many times the fish will be hooked just from the stripping action you imparted on the fly.

If your box only has available room for one streamer, fill the space with an egg-sucking leech. The ESL is a Great Lakes favorite that has brought countless fish to net.

Other favorites are wooly buggers, Alaska-boo’s, sculpins, speys, muddlers and any other baitfish or leech imitations.

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Black Wooly Bugger

Muddler Minnow

Egg Sucking Sculpin

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Clouds over Lake Michigan in January.

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Egg Patterns:

Nymphs:

Egg patterns are top steelhead producers especially after the spawn begins. These fish are ravenous predators when it comes to their own roe.

Egg patterns are fished on the drift and throwing mends into the line is important for keeping the drift slow and natural. Eggs are quite often seen fished under indicators normally weighted with some form of shot.

When fishing eggs, keep in mind that if you are not bumping the bottom you are not fishing deep enough. The strike on an egg fly isn’t vicious at all and steelhead are more likely to just sip the fly in.

Your indicator will look very similar as to when your just snagged on bottom. Don’t be shy and go ahead and give your line a rip. Various sizes, and colored eggs, quite often have a different effect on fish. Popular eggs include glo-bugs, sucker spawn, yarn flies, and estaz eggs.

Nymphs are often fished alone or as a dropper off the back of a streamer or an egg. They are fished in the same fashion as an egg pattern, mostly drifted under indicators with split shot to get the bait down to fish level.

Steelhead nymphs should look a lot like the nymphs commonly fished for trout. In fact, just upsize your hook size and almost all your trout nymphs can be converted to steelhead tackle. Favorites include hares ears, pheasant tails, prince nymphs, brassies, stones, and so forth.

Prince Nymph

Hare’s Ear

Glo Bug Stone Nymph

Spawn:

Sucker Spawn

Spawn is often overlooked by fly fishing purists but I’m not one of those people anymore. The effects of real trout eggs in the form of spawn sacs sometimes has a magi-

ical effect on fish.

For instance, I was schooled on the Root River last year by a good friend who switched over from drifting home made artificial eggs to the real thing. I recall looking at him and shaking my head in disgust. I wasn’t throwing spawn on the fly rod, so you have to be joking me!

I continued fishing my streamer and chuckled to myself. On his first cast the spawn rolled through the same pool he had just worked for almost an hour prior with artificials.

At the end of that drift he brought his arm up with the intentions of roll casting back to the top of the pool. Just as the bait came rocketing out of the water, so did an angry charging steelhead. This fish came clean out of the water after those eggs!

Unfortunately it was already too late. He had already pulled the bait away from the fish. The very next cast he made a deliberate slower presentation through the same pool throwing mends in the line to keep the spawn ticking on the bottom. This time it worked and he hooked and landed a real beauty of a steelhead.

He ended up going three-forfour on strikes after that, and it seemed like my sole purpose for the rest of the day was to assist in landing his fish.

Spawn is fished the same manner as an egg pattern. However, it is important to use a small bait holder or circle hook to penetrate the top of the spawn sac. Toss it to the top of the pool, and drift away. Spawn tends to excel in high water conditions and should never be an overlooked option.

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TRIBUTARY STEELHEADS. Weighty Issues When trying to get flies down to the fish you will often find yourself in the position of needing some sort of split shot. In my opinion, the smaller the weight, the better.

Bass Pro Shops has a split shot called “clam shots” and they perform as a great application in the fly fishing world. They are smaller than virtually any other split shot on the market and are perfect for presenting just the right amount of weight.

My advice is to add one split shot at a time until you find just the perfect amount.

Strike Indicators Indicator is just another fancy word used by fly fishing cults to describe bobbers.

Trust me I’ve tried them all.

There are many different types and brands on the market. Some I like and some I dislike.

I really dislike the putty because it doesn’t last for more then a few months before the whole jar starts to dry out. After it dries, it has the tendency to fly off on hook sets and snags. In addition, yarn indicators are fine for a few casts but become waterlogged and then begin to sink, thus negatively affecting the presentation. Also, the football shaped foam indicator with the rubber tubing in the middle comes off the line too easy. Far too often I’m watching them float downriver after popping of my line.

The indicators that work for me are the pinch on foam indicators that fold over the line. Their backFishing-Headquarters.com

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side is a sticker which makes them easy to apply but hard to remove.

These foam indicators keep a low profile in the water and buy far are the cheapest type.

Another indicator I like to employ is the simple foam ball that is attached to the line with a tooth pick.

These are easy to change out and are quite visible in the water. They come in different sizes and shapes and are also very cost effective.

Thingamabobbers are by far my favorite indicator and they are attached by looping it in the line.

They wont ever pop off and are the most durable and easy to remove if needed, but are a bit more expensive in comparison with most other indicators.

Thingamabobbers Rod and Reel Options For somebody just starting to get into steelhead on the fly, I would recommend a very basic 8 weight, 9 foot rod. This is a very standard weight for steelhead and will have the backbone to do battle with some of the larger fish that you will come across as you venture out into the tributaries.

For beginners I suggest using an all purpose weight forward floating line. This will be able to be converted to fish almost every situ-

March / April, 2011

ation.

When purchasing a fly reel, it isn’t necessary to look for an expensive brand with a super smooth drag. In fly fishing the reel is there just to hold your fly line. The drag should be applied with just the palm of your hand placed on the spool of the reel.

Control Your Own Destiny There is no doubt that a good day of steelhead fishing is having the opportunity of being able to hook one fish. Other days, you might go out and catch a half dozen.

From their sheer size, to their acrobatic jumps, throw in your own hand made lures into the mix and you might have just found the most rewarding fish to ever be caught on the fly.

Success will ensue when you have determined the right location for the conditions matched with proper presentation.

One thing for sure is that spring is just around the corner, and of course, you’re never going to catch one by sitting on your couch.

Blake Hamilton is a Fishing-Headquarters blogger and contributor.

He is an avid multi-species angler who lives on the Illinois/ Wisconsin border. In the Spring and Fall you will most likely find him wading in the tributaries fishing for steelhead, salmon, and brown trout.

You can reach Blake at his website, http://illinoiswisconsinfishing. blogspot.com/ �

Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing-Headquarters | Page 52

TRIBUTARY STEELHEADS.

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Photograph by Blake Hamilton Fishing-Headquarters | Page 54

TRIBUTARY STEELHEADS.

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Photograph by Blake Hamilton Fishing-Headquarters.com

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LIPLESS CRANKBAIT BASS.

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TRAP ATTACK BASS

Rapala Clackin’ Rap

Catch Monster Bass This Spring Like You Have Never Before with Lipless Crankbaits.

fer. Lipless crankbaits play a huge role in my early season fishing.

During the end of March last year, I experienced a bitterly cold day of fishing. A dusting of snowfall was covering the ground as a result of an overnight front that came in. To make the situation seem even worse, air temperatures were about 20 degrees below seasonal average, By: Kenny Lookingbill and water temperatures were barely Fishing-Headquarters Contributor breaking 30 degrees, all because of this massive cold front.

On this particular early spring day, I had nothing but fishing scheduled in my plans for the late afteregardless of what many noon.

My fishing partner and I depeople say, lipless crankbaits will have their shining moments at any cided to head over to the small lake point of the season. Occasionally I in town. This particular place had hear of some folks complain of how been worthwhile for us during the it’s an “idiot bait”, a technique that previous weeks since ice-out. Our requires extremely long casts and plan was to fish a weedy flat near quick retrieves, enabling you to the main channel. I decided to approach this day a little differently catch easy fish by covering water.

Unlike these folks, I beg to dif- than a lot of people would approach

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this day a little differently than a lot of people would approach a postfrontal outing. Most people would fish VERY slowly. I, on the other hand, wanted to cover water and find a couple of aggressive fish because I didn’t have a large amount of time to fish it thoroughly.

As we began fishing, I was immediately regretting my decision coming here. During the first ten minutes of uncomfortable casting, my hands were freezing from palming my Quantum Tour Edition TE1160 PT bait-casting reel.

Skeptical of our efforts, and my lack of success while fishing during post-frontal conditions, I had a feeling that we were going to catch nothing, and our day of trying to fish would be a waste of time.

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LIPLESS CRANKBAIT BASS.

Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer

As opposed to other methods that work well during early season situations, I enjoy fishing with lipless crankbaits because you can cover a lot more water, present your lure in diverse casting angles, and can quickly find more fish.

Following our half an hour of futility, I was in the process of suggesting to my partner that we conclude this outing sometime soon.

Then suddenly, my fortunes changed and all hell broke loose for us.

Out of nowhere I encountered a subtle bump on my Yo Zuri Rattlin’ Vibe. This completely caught my off guard. I set the hook and sure enough I had a fish on. I immediately knew it was a “biggun” because of its weight. When it was played in and lipped, I was in shock. I knew right away that it was the biggest bass of my life.

Final measurements were taken. The big bass was 23 inches, and estimated to be around 7 lbs. Pictures were taken and the fish was Fishing-Headquarters.com

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March / April, 2011

released to fight another day. After this fish, we continued to fish, but could not entice anything else. Victimized by the cold, and my lucky catch, we retired as happy anglers for the day.

This forever would cement my confidence in fishing with lipless crankbaits during cold weather periods and post-frontal conditions.

Reaction Strikes Back Quite often, I get asked the following questions from anglers; “What is the reason behind bass aggressively attacking rattle baits?”

When females are nesting and preparing to spawn, anything that intrudes their nest will be aggres�

sively attacked. It’s in the nature of almost all egg-laden fish species. The fish may not necessarily be hitting out of hunger, but more out of a reactionary parental instinct because of the mentality to protect their nest.

Any strike like this that isn’t influenced by hunger is called a reaction strike. There are many ways to trigger reaction strikes at any time of the year. Examples are bouncing crankbaits off structure such as rocks and wood. In addition, varying your speeds of retrieve also lead to a plethora of strikes.

When fishing lipless crankbaits, I tend to use a variety of retrieves. My preference is burning them, with the combination of giving them erratic jerks and pauses.

Many times I have gotten a strike following a pause on the first crank of the reel.

Plan-B Options Lipless crankbaits will catch fish 95% of the time. When they don’t, I have back-up options.

Besides rattle baits, there are other fine lure selections that can be used in the springtime, most notably jig & pigs, and jerkbaits. These often serve as my backup plan if lipless crankbaits aren’t on the fishes menu.

Jig & pigs are most effective for me during the first few weeks of spring, immediately after ice out.

The bass at this time are in the process of working their way out of their winter doldrums. During their sluggish movements, it is imperative that a slow approach be used.

Early in the season, I prefer using red or brown colored jigs with craw trailers because one of the first main forages of a bass is crayfish. Hopping a jig along the bottom at a very

This egg-filled bass was 23 inches, and estimated to be around 7 lbs.

Pictures were taken and the fish was released to fight another day. This is Lookingbill’s largest bass to date.

Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer Fishing-Headquarters | Page 62

LIPLESS CRANKBAIT BASS. slow pace will replicate a crayfish crawling on the bottom. I prefer using downsized versions such as Strike Kings Bitsy Bugs and Booyah Baby Boo jigs.

In addition to the much slower fishing presentations dictated by the jig and pig, jerkbaits also prove their effectiveness during slow days of fishing.

As the spring season progresses towards a warmer summer, jerkbaits are an excellent option for post-frontal conditions and especially in situations when the fish are flat-out active. The key to fishing jerkbaits at this time of year is to keep the retrieve slow and deliberate. The retrieves should consist of erratic jerks and very long pauses, sometimes even a ten second count is necessary between any continued movements.

My favorite jerkbaits include Storm Thundersticks and the Rapala X-Rap 8 and 10. Color choices are not all that important to me. Just remember the basic color rules in respect to water clarity, like using darker colored lures in murky water, and so forth.

Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer

Trap Attack Due to the power fishing mentality that I have, I will always remain sensitive to the lipless crankbait because I enjoy its fast paced fishing, and rapid casting mode.

As opposed to other methods that work well during early season situations, I enjoy fishing with lipless crankbaits in particular because you can cover a lot more water, present your lure in diverse casting Fishing-Headquarters.com

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March / April, 2011

Yo-Zuri Vibe

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angles, and can quickly find more fish and get them to strike out of annoyance of the rattling lure.

Through my experiences of early season fishing, the prime water temperatures for fishing with lipless crankbaits are between 45-55 degrees.

I usually begin the season first by targeting smaller bodies of water such small lakes and ponds, or places that receive a lot of overland and tile drainage because these are the places that warm up the quickest. In addition, I also focus often on areas such as northern most shorelines that are baked by direct sunlight.

On any body of water, whether on ponds or big lakes, the general rule of thumb is to find shallower water adjacent to deeper water where the females will come out of to begin the spawning process. They will often be sunning in shallow water or by other structures that attract heat. These areas, specifically, can include rocks, wood debris, emerging weedgrowth, and sand.

As far as color choices are concerned, I like to keep most lipless crankbait selections limited to any sort of red or orange color. The reasoning for this is that one of the main early season forages of bass is crayfish, as they are abundant, and get set to spawn themselves. In addition to the reds and oranges, a lot of other color options work well such as firetiger. Also worth noting is that if fishing in clear water situations, it is important to match the hatch and pay attention to the patterns of the available pelagic forage species.

When fishing with lipless crankbaits, or making your selections on which brands, models, and styles to use, the most important factor is determining how noisy and effective the internal rattles are. My

Strike King Redeye Shad

Rapala Clackin’ Rap

Spro Aruku Shad

Cotton Cordell Super Spot Fishing-Headquarters | Page 64

LIPLESS CRANKBAIT BASS.

Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer

On any body of water, whether on ponds or big lakes, the general rule of thumb is to find shallower water adjacent to deeper water where the females will come out of to begin the spawning process. rule is the louder the vibration, the better.

Many of these lipless crankbaits are expensive for their designs and styles. However, they are definitely worth using. My favorites include the Yo Zuri Rattlin’ Vibes and the Spro Aruku Shads. Besides these two, other cost-effective options are available, and these work just as well. Some examples are the following: Bill Lewis Rattletraps; Strike King Redeye Shads; and Cotton Cordell Super Spots.

To fish effectively with rattle baits, I use the Quantum Tour Edition TE1160 line of reels with the 6.3:1 gear ratio. The mid-range gear ratio seems to work best for me because I do not want to move the rattletrap too fast. That is my overall Fishing-Headquarters.com

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preference, but sometimes a faster gear ratio greater than 7.0:1 such as the blazing fast Quantum Tour TKVD150HPT is required if you really want to make the lure move and get the fish to bite when nothing else can.

As far as rod lengths and actions are concerned for fishing with rattle baits, most anglers prefer using medium to medium-heavy action rods. I prefer using a 7 foot medium heavy rod for this type of fishing so that I can make long casts. In addition, the long rods help for stronger hook sets I as get to the backbone of the rod quicker. It helps to have as strong as a rod possible to bring in the big female bass that are full of energy from heavy feeding to meet the energy requirements for spaw-

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ing.

For any rattle bait rod and reel combo, I like to use 30 lb. braided superline such as Power Pro, Spiderwire Stealth, or Sufix Fusion. These superlines enable anglers to make long, smooth casts and gives more leverage when fighting fish and not having to worry about a break off.

Besides braided line options, copolymers and 10lb fluorocarbon will work when needed.

Like a number of anglers who began fishing with lipless crankbaits, I was skeptical of the benefits that can be had from triggering reaction strikes. After long hours of trial and error, I progressively gained confidence in them and feel as if I can catch fish no matter the situations being presented. �

Regardless of what many people say, lipless crankbaits will have their shining moments at any point of the season. On occasion, I hear of some folks complain of how it’s an “idiot bait”, a technique that requires extremely long casts and quick retrieves that enables you to catch easy fish by covering water. Unlike some folks, I beg to differ.

Lipless crankbaits play a huge role in my early season fishing.

Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer Fishing-Headquarters | Page 66

LIPLESS CRANKBAIT BASS.

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Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer Fishing-Headquarters | Page 68

LIPLESS CRANKBAIT BASS.

“During your early season big bass hunts, keep angler ethics a high priority. Practice catch, photo, and release on those big females to ensure they can be back in the water, guarding their eggs from nest raiders.”

Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer Fishing-Headquarters.com

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Photograph by Frank Weilnhammer Fishing-Headquarters | Page 70

BACKWATER NORTHERN PIKE.

Get Dirty With Backwater Pike Fishing-Headquarters.com

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The spawning behavior of pike is first observed as ice retreats from the banks of rivers and creek arms.

During these days of early spring, sunlight penetration becomes critical in awakening fish, thus leading them into the fertile vegetated shallows of newly-filled river backwaters, side channels, and ditches to seek out ideal habitat for laying By: Andrew Ragas eggs.

Editor In-Chief andrew@ďŹ shing-headquarters.com In comparison to other gamefish species, pike spawn in very cool water, immediately following ice-out. They are often the first spes winter draws to a con- cies to spawn in most major river clusion, the days before us gradu- systems, preferring the temperature ally turn warmer and longer. When ranges of 35 to 45 degrees. During air temperatures increase, creating the spawning process, females will snow-melt, large trickles of water deposit as many as 100,000 eggs meander into creeks, streams, and at random in shallow dense habitat they find to be most suitable for rivers.

When this process occurs, riv- rearing their fry.

The scent of spring seeping er shorelines and backwaters finally become accessible again to open into the river system appears to trigwater angling. In consequence, this ger the necessary response for anchanging of seasons enables us to glers that the pike spawn is quickly pursue northern pike, the water wolf approaching. At this time, the stage is now set for some of the biggest of all river systems.

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In comparison to other gameďŹ sh species, pike spawn in very cool water, immediately following ice-out.

fish of the year to be highly concentrated and eager to feed.

For many anglers, the best locations to hunt down both numbers and sizes of northern pike are the shallow backwaters. If fishing large and deep river systems or flowages for example, boat access should be used. However, in my region where the river systems are shallow, small to mid-size, and require some stealth stalking, the only necessary means for travel are a set of comfortable waders.

In my mind, there is no better way of fishing for pike in rivers than to get down and dirty in the muddy backwaters with them.

Backwaters are ideal places to target pike during the spawn, and even for a period of several weeks after the spawn. These shallow secondary off-channel river habitats serve as overwintering areas, providing pike refuge from current as well as offering water temperatures that can be a few degrees warmer than the main river channel.

Shallow backwaters may not

Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing-Headquarters | Page 74

BACKWATER NORTHERN PIKE.

This illustration is indicative of what some of the best and most productive backwaters encompass. During spawn, pike focus their locations on the heaviest vegetation they can find. Healthy habitats will feature numerous spawning fish. Each fish pictured on assumed location represents a spawning pair. In addition, staging fish can be found just about anywhere. serve as year round wintering habitat, but pike seek them out most frequently for spawning purposes as they contain an abundance of ideal habitat. Prime habitat for successful pike spawning has proven to be newly flooded brush and vegetation.

Cattail bays and marsh usually hold fish, but dense grass with nearby wood cover provides better spawning habitat and efficiently isolates eggs from predation.

Another important factor to keep in mind for backwaters is the amount of penetrating sunlight.

Shallows that are baked by sunlight Fishing-Headquarters.com

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heat the fastest. If you can find a run of key shallow spots adjacent to deep water and the channel entrances, there is a good chance that you will find some of the biggest pike available in the river. When you locate potential key areas like this where pike are staging, there’s going to be different pike moving in and out of the area all day long.

For these same reasons, backwaters also attract other fish species pike feed on such as minnows, creek chubs, bluegills, suckers and large invertebrates including leeches. As water temperatures climb during

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the spawning period weeks, these forage species will also be active, attracted to the warmer water temperatures and habitat.

Based on most early season adventures, past experiences indicate that a mid to late afternoon outing is the standard procedure during this type of early season angling. If locating productive water, scouting your locations during the early mornings and the hours leading up to your fishing pays huge dividends in angling productivity.

Before making your way over to the river, my suggestions are to �

In my mind, there is no better way of ďŹ shing for pike in rivers than to get down and dirty in the muddy backwaters with them. Backwaters are ideal places to target pike during the spawn, and even for a period of several weeks after the spawn.

Pictured are Dan Sims and Mark Matejka, cutting through thick marshland in early March, in order to reach pike in the river backwaters.

Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing-Headquarters | Page 76

BACKWATER NORTHERN PIKE.

For many anglers, the best locations to hunt down both numbers and sizes of northern pike are the shallow backwaters.

In my region where the river systems are shallow, small to mid-size, and require some stealth stalking, the only necessary means for access are a set of comfortable waders. first map out several good looking bays and creek arms through Google Earth, and BING satellite image software. These free programs are highly detailed in which you can sometimes notice depth changes, weed beds, laydowns, and shallow cover without even having to see the water for yourself.

Not only will you locate potential fishing spots by being a spy with satellite images, but you will also find your access areas to them.

In addition, information exchange via messaging and word of mouth is critical. Consulting and comparing notes with fellow river rats will oftentimes lead to gains in your own personal information such as possible spawning locations, fish movements, hot lures, and the moods of fish. Beforehand research like this will tremendously minimize your time in scouting and locating access areas, thus leaving you with more time to catch fish.

Compared to the main river channels, which will possess poor Fishing-Headquarters.com

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clarity at this time (especially in high water conditions), backwaters are often clearer, and excellent water filters due to being heavily vegetated. Since pike rely on their vision for feeding, presentations that add a visual attraction are top producers.

Once you have your backwaters located, and have confirmation that fish are present, it’s time to go to work.

Compared to the main river channels, which will possess poor clarity at this time (especially in high water conditions), backwaters are often clearer, and excellent water filters due to being heavily vegetated. Since pike rely on their vision for feeding, presentations that add a visual attraction are top producers.

Many times, anglers often use big baits in order to catch the biggest fish available. In late summer into deep fall the big bait factor will hold true, but for early season not so much. Still, throwing large offerings does not always result in more strikes throughout the day. Using

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small to medium size lures will yield a lot of bigger fish by catching more fish overall. The big ones you end up catching will result as a function of percentages in the process.

In early season fishing situations like this, pike are generally lethargic and finicky around the spawn period, and even during periods of heavy angling pressure.

These variables affect your traditional lure selections for catching pike. Since the fish may be running hot (if unpressured and unmolested) or cold (if pressured or during postfrontal), it is important to bring a diverse selection of baits.

When wading, I often carry a backpack with a utility box with a variety of lures and mandatory leader material.

Spinnerbaits Incorporating that bigger vs. smaller lure debate in catching more fish, traditional bass spinnerbaits between the sizes of 3/8 oz. to 3/4 ďż˝

Photograph by Andrew Ragas

oz. excel for fishing along weed edges, and in extremely tight quarters to marshy shoreline cover where fish might be dropping eggs.

In situations in which other lure options might get snagged in shallow cover, spinnerbaits avoid it.

One of my favorite spinnerbaits to use for pike is Northland’s Reed Runner in black with orange willow blade, and chartreuse/white with gold willow blade. In addition, Terminator’s T2 spinnerbaits work well, and hold up better because they are made from flexible titanium.

Trailer hooks aren’t required additions for your spinnerbaits unless experiencing a myriad of short strikes and missed fish. However, if used, your chances of having a tremendous weedless presentation diminish.

Lastly, it is mandatory for me to fish my spinnerbaits for pike with the addition of a plastic trailer. One of my absolute favorites is the 5 inch Stankx Thug Grub. Its extra-large profile tail adds to the effectiveness of the swimming spinnerbait presentation.

Northland Reed Runner

Terminator T2 Series

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BACKWATER NORTHERN PIKE. Bucktails and Inline Spinners I seldom fish with anything larger than a size 6 blade during the early season – this even holds true for fishing muskies up north.

The largest lures I will use in these situations are Mepps Musky Killers.

However, pike that fall victims to angling pressure grow accustomed to seeing these all the time, plus the larger profiles and treble hooks have trouble staying weed-free. In high pressure angling situations, downsizing proves valuable.

Downsizing lures will make a big difference. #4 or #5 Mepps inline spinners are valuable when fish are running hot. In addition, the newcomers, Sims Spinners, have been exceptionally effective with their #5 single and double bladed models.In comparison with other blades such as willow styles, Colorado blades excel in running high through the water column, bulging beneath the surface. Sims specializes in creating custom tails and blades so that your lures can match all angling situations. Some of my favorite allaround pike combinations are single bladed such as black tail with orange blade, white tail with red blade, and chartreuse with black blade.

Sims Spinner #5 Single Blade www.sims-spinners.com

Mepps Musky Killers

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March / April, 2011

ďż˝

Rattlebaits Rattlebaits tend to be overlooked by a vast majority of pike anglers. They are class of lures that you come across in most bass fishermen’s tackle boxes. However, in some situations, especially when fishing rivers with an abundant shad and shiner population, rattlebaits are dangerous.

With a cast and burn retrieve so that bottom contact is avoided, these noisy lures excel at tempting fish on pressured waters and during postfrontal conditions. In addition, they excel when fished in deeper pools within the backwater and around its outlets leading back out to the main river channel because the most active fish will be staging in this area, and infiltrating in and out.

When visual-related presentations fail, rattlebaits are a premium choice for when sound and vibration is needed. Some of my favorites are 5/8 oz. Rapala Clackin Raps, and 3/8 oz. Rattlin’ Rapala.

Rapala Clackin’ Rap

Rattlin’ Rapala

Jig and Plastic When pike are so lethargic to the point that you cannot catch them on anything else, jigs with big plastic trailers will grab their attention.

Traditional 1/2 oz. to 3/8 oz. bass jigs work well under a leader.

If weedless jigs aren’t in your bag of tricks, 3/8 oz. jig heads tipped with a 5 inch grub can catch several fish.

As far as models are concerned, Northland Jungle Jigs are my favorite due to their compact profile and thick brush guard. Nowadays, I fish all of my pike jigs with a Stankx 5 inch thug grub. I have found that black is the best universal color because it works in any type of clarity, and makes your jig look like it is running with a giant juicy leech.

Northland Jungle Jigs

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BACKWATER NORTHERN PIKE. Jerkbaits My favorites are slashbaits like the Rapala X-Rap 10. These lures give anglers the option to pause the bait at the right time, especially if fish might be lethargically trailing you. There is something to say about suspending baits that drive pike crazy, enough to make them strike with force.

Rapala X-Rap 10

Chatterbaits My favorite is the Strike King Poison. Fished in ½ oz., these skirted jigs with an independently moving metal lip attached to the jig head are quite possibly one of the most versatile shallow-water pike catching machines I have ever used. The key is how well they can deflect off of vegetation.

The blade does all the work for you by creating all the noise and vibration needed to get the attention of pike. Note – always tip with a trailer.

Strike King Poison

Weedless Spoons Spoons are options that I seldom use because they have the perception of being so old-school, and oftentimes I forget that I even have them in my box. Based on popular pike culture, the ¾ oz. Johnson Silver Minnow tipped with a 3 inch plastic grub trailer is a longtime favorite that keeps on producing year after year.

If more flair is needed, and requested by fish, I also suggest giving Northland Jawbreaker Spoons a whirl.

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Johnson Silver Minnow

March / April, 2011

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On certain river systems where pike aren’t managed as thoroughly as they should be, it is extremely important to fish with your head on straight. The most important aspect about this style of fishing is releasing pre-spawn fish so they fulfill their life cycle of producing the next generation of backwater inhabitants for eager and adventurous anglers to enjoy.

Photograph by Andrew Ragas Fishing-Headquarters | Page 82

BACKWATER NORTHERN PIKE.

Backwaters are ideal places to target pike during the spawn, and even for a period of several weeks after the spawn. These shallow secondary off-channel river habitats serve as overwintering areas, providing pike refuge from current as well as offering water temperatures that can be a few degrees warmer than the main river channel.

Stankx Bait Co. Flukez www.stankxbaitco.com

Plastic Minnows Sometimes, plastic tails aren’t meant to be served as trailers for jigs and spinnerbaits.

A new concept for me is catching pike on weightless jerkbaits.

Twitch and glide plastics like the new Stankx 5 inch Flukez Minnow have a similar suspending characteristic to a naturally bouyant minFishing-Headquarters.com

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now as it can be cast, then jerked andpaused several times until brought in.

Fished weedless with hook ‘texposed’ and weightless on a size 2/0 EWG hook (with leader mandatory), they can be worked anywhere in the water column, and easily outperform everything else on days when fish are lazy and lethargic.

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Gearing Up For shore stalking backwater pike, proper gear is a must-have, especially because you are dealing with a species of fish that requires being in good health following release. With egg-bearing females, this becomes critical.

A good all-around multi-purpose outfit for me is a 6 and a half to

Photograph by Andrew Ragas

7 and a half foot medium heavy action casting rod with a reel spooled with 40lb braided superline. In particular, I enjoy fishing my 6 ft.

6 inch medium heavy Quantum Tour Edition PT with burner model Quantum Accurist PT. In addition, in situations when I know monster fish are likely to be caught, I beef my rig up to a 7 and a half foot medium heavy Quantum Blue Runner, a light saltwater rod. I pair it with a Quantum Cabo 30PT with 50lb braided superline.

I prefer using shorter rods in comparison to longer models because I often find myself in situations where I need to make awkward casts through flooded trees and brush. In addition, when pitching becomes necessary, I can maneuver through shallow water much easier when longer rods might prevent it from happening.

Besides baitcasting options, heavier spinning tackle becomes an option, especially if you intend on fishing with finesse and utilizing live bait and dead-bait techniques

beneath a float. Personally, I have yet to touch a spinning rod when in pursuit of backwater pike. However, I have friends who fish with 7 and 7 and a half foot, medium heavy action rods, and do very well with them.

When fishing for spawning pike this spring, angler ethics is a critical issue that will be encountered. Often, rapid decisions will be made for which fish to keep, whether or not you should trespass on someone’s land in order to reach the fish, or if a specific location is to be posted for others to know your whereabouts.

As conservative anglers, we must choose well for our own sake, and the vulnerable fish species that are being pursued for own recreational purposes.

Catching spawning pike is nothing different in comparison to catching other nesting species of fish. The only noticeable difference is in the way you are in pursuit of the quarry. Wading backwaters on small to mid size river systems is

one of the most unique and adventurous ways I have successfully caught fish.

Like most other spawning grounds for pike, river backwaters are ecologically sensitive areas that have capabilities of rearing dozens of vulnerable fish at a time. Despite their large population densities in small isolated areas, they will not fare well when facing pressure, and even angler harvest.

On certain river systems where pike aren’t managed as thoroughly as they should be, it is extremely important to fish with your head on straight. The most important aspect about this style of fishing is releasing pre-spawn fish so they fulfill their life cycle of producing the next generation of backwater inhabitants for eager and adventurous anglers to enjoy.

Locate the areas as I have described for you, and you will certainly get dirty in the backwaters at somePhoto pointcourtesy, this spring.

Jim Gronaw.

Fishing-Headquarters | Page 84

BACKWATER NORTHERN PIKE.

Pictured is Dan Sims with a pre-spawn staging ďŹ sh caught during March, 2010. It is worth noting that if backwaters are not producing or showing signs of ďŹ sh, the main river channel near its inlets and outlets are worth a few casts. This 30 inch pre-spawn female struck a Rapala X-Rap 10.

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March / April, 2011

Photograph by David Mannion

Trekking through thick jungle and swampy terrain is not suited for the lazy and weak. Gear yourselves properly to endure the elements. Once you reach your hard to access river backwaters, the rewards will be well-deserved and hard-earned. In the end, it’s always about the adventure.

Photograph by Dan Sims Fishing-Headquarters | Page 86

Photo courtesy, Jim Gronaw. www.fishing-headquarters.com/fishcast/

ILLINOIS RIVER SAUGER.

Spring Sauger On The Illinois River.

Photo courtesy Illinois State Parks Fishing-Headquarters.com

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March / April, 2011

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I caught this 4.36 lb. sauger at the 2009 Illinois River MWC event It was the third biggest fish of the day and won us some cashola!

Photo courtesy Julia Davis, Walleye Central

The largest population of sauger on the Illinois River is in the Starved Rock pool. The key to success in this section, and any other sections of the river, is understanding and adapting to the ever changing river water levels.

Each day before fishing, I check the water levels at the National Weather Service Forecast website By: Roy Vivian for Central Illinois. Here I can find Fishing-Headquarters Contributor out whether or not the river is going up or down in addition to predicted future levels. High water is not bad to deal with. However, high water that is dirty with ‘chocolate milk’ he short and cold days of clarity is not so good.

In addition to water levels, I winter are giving way to the warmer and longer days of spring. That can check the weather to see if rain is mean only one thing, it is sauger on the way. Measurable rain in the time! From a recreational and tour- LaSalle/Peru area isn’t necessarnament angling standpoint there is ily a bad thing. However, measurno better place to catch sauger in able rain in Chicago usually is a March and April than the Illinois bad thing as the runoff will eventually flow downstream from the Des River.

T

Plaines and Kankakee River watersheds into the Illinois River system.

As a result, water clarity will be muddy. The good news is if the rain is isolated only in the Chicago area it usually takes a few days to make it down the river.

Finally, the last thing I will do is call a local bait shop such our friends at Time on the Water Outdoors, to find out the visibility of the river.

With all of these steps finally taken cared of, you can finally get on the water and start adapting to the river conditions.

If the river is muddy, regardless of river levels, the first thing I look for is the cleanest water in the system. An improvement as slight as an inch of visibility can make a huge difference in the productivity of fishing.

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ILLINOIS RIVER SAUGER.

Photograph by Roy Vivian

Usually the best spots to catch sauger in the spring are in areas where there is a hard bottom. Sauger are curious fish and I think this continuous “pounding” of the jig draws them in.

Locating cleaner water can be impossible but there are some things to look for. The first places I check are feeder streams and creeks.

Sometimes it is the feeder stream that is pumping in muddy water like the Vermillion or Little Vermillion River. Other times it is the opposite; those rivers are pumping in clean, emerald color, water. If the water is high and muddy, but dropping, the cleanest water will usually be closest to the Starved Rock dam. Other places to look are at the mouth of the backwater lakes and outlets from dams holding back water.

In 2007, the day before the MWC tournament, the river was muddy and rising, well on it’s way to record flood levels. The visibility in areas where I was catching fish had diminished to near zero and I Fishing-Headquarters.com

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could not get a bite. I finally found a creek that was pumping in clean water. I slid in there with my trolling motor, dropped my jig and plastic down, jigged it once and caught a 2.5 lb. sauger. Shortly after, my partner caught another one that was 3 pounds. We then concluded, thinking that we had found the secret spot.

By the time we reached the same location the next day, there were 30 boats in this small area and the clean water was all gone as the dirty river water backed up the creek.

Of 200 boats participating in the tournament, there were only 4 fish caught and none of them were anywhere near the mouth of that creek!

If water levels are high I will search for current breaks closer to shore in the 12 to 14 foot range.

March / April, 2011

Don’t be afraid to fish shallower though as I have often found big sauger in the 6 to 10 foot, range and in some cases in as little as 2 feet.

Higher water will usually concentrate fish on those current seams.

Therefore if you catch one, make sure you cover that area thoroughly.

If water level is stable, or dropping, sauger will often spread themselves out into the main channel and can be caught in the 16 to 20 foot range.

My favorite way to catch Illinois River sauger is to slip the river with a jig and plastic combination.

Some of my favorites are Hutch’s Ringworms, Paddle Tails, and Berkley GULP! I was once told that plastics don’t work on the Illinois River. I can assure you that is far beyond from being the truth. Sometimes �

the fish may prefer a live minnow in opposition of a plastic. When this holds true, I usually have my partner use a live bait jig with a minnow to see which one the fish prefer most.

I like to use the heaviest jig I can get away with, which is usually a 1/2 oz. Hutch River Jig. Meanwhile if I am using minnows, I use a 1/2 oz. Do-It live bait jig that I make myself.

In regard to jigs, it is important to note that the heavier jig reaches the river bottom faster. With heavier jigs, it is easier to keep your presentation vertical and allows you to jig more aggressively. Most importantly, a 1/2 oz. jig allows you to “pound” the bottom.

Usually the best spots to catch sauger in the spring are in areas where there is a hard bottom. Sauger are curious fish and I think this continuous “pounding” draws them in. Sauger are also very aggressive and have no problem sucking into their mouths a 1/2 oz. jig. The best places to jig are on a current seam and sharp breaks that follow the shoreline’s contour. Many times the fish will be holding tight to these areas, making a vertical jigging presentation very effective.

If I am preparing for a tournament, which I will be on the last week of March, I will jig and also try other tactics.

A great place to catch sauger during spring are on the flats, which are areas with little change in depth.

Flats are usually located on long, straight stretches of the river. The river bottom of the best areas usually possess hard bottom composition and are often featureless with the exception of humps that are caused by passing barges. The fish are usually spread out making jigging a little more difficult. For these fish the most productive way to catch

The largest population of sauger on the Illinois River is in the Starved Rock pool. The key to success in this section, and any other sections of the river, is understanding and adapting to the ever changing river water levels.

Photo courtesy Illinois State Parks Fishing-Headquarters | Page 92

ILLINOIS RIVER SAUGER.

Photo courtesy Julia Davis, Walleye Central

Pictured is Kevin Dahl, of Muskego, Wisconsin. His 25.55 weight earned him and partner, Steve Stack, a first place finish at the Illinois River MWC event in March, 2010. them is to hand line, pole line, troll lead core or use heavy weights on a three way swivel presentation. You can also use a 3 way swivel with the dropper line being a 1-2 oz. jig tipped with a plastic and a hook or a Phelps floater on the other line. I prefer to use the latter method on current seams, distinct breaks and spots rather than on the flats because I can’t cover as much water.

The key advantage of these tactics is you can cover more water by trolling upstream in an S pattern in comparison to a straight line that is needed to vertical jig. The S pattern also helps trigger fish as the bait speeds up or slows down and pauses.

An experienced boat operator can also increase the odds by “sliding” across the current which keeps the stick baits in front of the fish longer Fishing-Headquarters.com

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giving them a greater opportunity to eat the bait. In areas where barges have created humps the heavier weights used in these presentations keep the baits in the strike zone longer than with jigging.

Many trollers use smaller, Rapala style stick baits that are number 5’s or 7’s. I prefer to use number 9’s and sometimes 11’s. If you think a number 9 or 11 is too big your concern will go away when you catch a sauger that is smaller than your bait!

The Illinois River isn’t a glamorous river. In fact, the locals call it a ditch, probably because it is dredged out to allow for barge traffic among other things. However, it is a resilient river full of history. You can catch fish right next to a barge loading coal or next to a beautiful,

March / April, 2011

historical landmark like Starved Rock.

Either way the Illinois River is full of sauger. If you keep an eye on river levels and adapt accordingly, then you are sure to catch your share of sauger! If you happen to encounter a Lund 1975 Pro V with a 225 Verado sometime this spring, stop me on the water and say hello!

Roy Vivian is a tournament walleye angler from Madison, Wisconsin. In 2008, he finished in 11th place at the Illinois River MWC event, and took third place in 2009. He is presently on the pro-staff of Lund Boats, Mercury Motors, EZEE Steps, Do-It Molds and Shimano rods and reels.

Read more at Roy’s blog:

fishing-headquarters.com/royvivian/ �

Photo courtesy Julia Davis, Walleye Central Fishing-Headquarters | Page 94

TACKLE LOGIC

LET’S TALK JIGS.

By: Bryan Blazek

Fishing-Headquarters Contributor

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bass jig is a fish catching tool that can be used in a variety of situations. Some anglers will arFishing-Headquarters.com

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gue that the jig is perhaps the most versatile lure available to the modern angler. Advances in braided line have enabled the modern angler to fish structure and slop much more effectively than ever before.

Jigs are the perfect tools used in order to get into cover and mimic natural forage. A jig can be hopped back along the bottom, dragged at a snails pace, stroked, or swam at various depths imitating bait fish or frogs.

This highlights perhaps my favorite and most effective way of fishing a jig, with a bulky skirt and craw trailer, swam as a subsurface frog.

March / April, 2011

pecially love jigs. Many tours have been won with this lure, and the market is saturated with every color, size, and shape of bass jigs- some costing upwards of five dollars apiece.

Now I am not disputing that some of the premium jigs on the market are not excellent products, but it is hard to justify spending five dollars on a lure that you are intentionally going to throw into a tree.

Furthermore, the problem I have found is that halfway into the season, many tackle shops start to run out of all the colors I like. (I guess someone else is using my secret lure...) ďż˝

My favorite jig is being demonstrated for creation. I call this the “Bama Bug”.

First we are going to need to wind up an empty spool with some remnants of your favorite braid. I stumbled on this idea one day when I ran out of thread.

Next you are going to need some freshly painted powder-coated jig heads.

Color selections are endless, but I suggest purchasing black, brown, or green.

From an appearance standpoint, most of all of the major tackle manufacturers still fall short in one specific area; they do not offer flash on their jigs. Flash is great for imitating bait fish, or giving a little something extra for stained water applications. This is the primary reason I started tying my own jigs, I wanted to add flash, and I had to take the skirts apart in to do this.

Before I get too far into this, I’d like to add the disclaimer that I am not manufacturing jig heads myself. I have personally come across an eBay merchant who sells me all the jigs I need for about fifty cents apiece. It saves me the hassle of having to melt lead, buy molds, and so forth. Furthermore, I like to spoil myself with a package of premium jig heads from one of the big manufacturers every once in a while, as variations such as the Grass Bomb are not available in any of the commercially available molds.

This leads us into what we will need to source for our little project.

First, you will need an assortment of jig heads, a common vise, a proper fly tying bobbin, a spool with some Power-Pro or similar braided line remnants, clear nail polish, jig rattles, a package of premium rainbow flashabou, and skirting material.

At this point, you can finally get creative.

Imagine all of the colors that have worked for you in past fishing experiences, and think of what you are trying to emulate with your bait.

Is it a crayfish dancing in the rocks, or frightened bait fish scurrying just under the surface?

There are several options for skirt material such as living rubber, silicone, and round rubber, the last of which is often overlooked but very Fishing-Headquarters | Page 96

TACKLE LOGIC effective. It may cost a few bucks to get everything together, but when you have all of your supplies, you will be able to turn out custom bass jigs for a little over a dollar apiece, five minutes before you leave to go fishing. A hand tied jig will last longer, with fewer adjustments, giving you more time concentrate on fishing. When your friends and fellow anglers see these flashy new jigs, they will want to take you on trips on their boats, let you stay at their cabins, or even share their wives to get their hands on one of your custom lures.

First we are going to need to wind up an empty spool with some remnants of your favorite braid.

I stumbled on this idea one day when I ran out of thread. I really like utilizing this braid alternative as opposed to rubber wrap or small thread because it allows me to make up to twenty-five wraps instead of many more with thread. It will also allow us to do something cool with the rattle later.

Next you are going to need some freshly painted powder-coated jig heads. I was going to thoroughly explain how to powder-coat the heads, but it is an extremely easy process. Color selections are endless, but I suggest purchasing black, brown, or green, and following the listed directions on the package.

Following the paint process, you will need to work with a vise.

You will notice mine is of the “trustyrusty” brand. First I tried this with a fly vise, only to find it doesn’t hold a hook over 4/0 well. Also, you can exert much more pressure on a standard vise as opposed to a fly vise.

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Following the paint process, you will need to work with a vise.

Next, we will need to get our thread process started.

We are ready to add our first skirt tab.

March / April, 2011

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Next the top color, and adding three more wraps.

If flashabou skirt material is added, I will clip a few strands out of the rainbow pack that I think will contrast with water clarity nicely.

Purple is by far my favorite. As far as other color options are concerned, black, or “baitfish emulator” works very well.

Take a look at how I positioned the jig and used an elastic band to secure the weed guard out of the way.

The jig I am working with today is a half ounce Arkie style, with a 7/0 hook. The jig pattern being tied up is my Bama Bug. Next, we will need to get our thread process started. Begin by wrapping the line over itself once, and continue down towards the hook shank with five or six neat wraps. It’s not a bad idea to throw down a dab of super glue on the jig before you wrap the thread in order to eliminate any possibility of your skirt from shifting.

Finally, we are ready to add our first skirt tab. A typical jig will consist of a 1/2 tab for finesse swim jigs, up to 3 or more for dark or stained water applications. You want to lay the middle of the skirt over the thread, and wrap it about three times.

Next the top color, and adding three more wraps.

If flashabou skirt material is added, I will clip a few strands out of the rainbow pack that I think will contrast with water clarity nicely.

Strangely, most of the purple seems to be gone from this package because it is used most often. As far as other color options are concerned, black, or “baitfish emulator” works very well.

Here comes my signature feature.

Last summer, after losing rattles off of every style rattle band on the market right now, I knew there had to be a better solution. In order to correct this problem, grabbed my leftover Power-Pro, and began tying on my own rattles. I haven’t lost a rattle since then. To attach your rattles, use a knot that you prefer to Fishing-Headquarters | Page 98

TACKLE LOGIC attach with the Power-Pro. First tie it to the rattle, and then to the jig.

When completed, use a tiny dab of super glue to make sure the knot doesn’t slip on the rattle.

Complete the jig by making a few more neat wraps, then use a few simple half hitches, or a whip knot to finish your jig. Seal up the thread with a dab of clear nail polish Lastly we need to trim away the solid ends of the tabs.

Take your jig out of the vise, and you will have something that closely resembles a jig from your favorite tackle shop, only WAY COOLER because you made it yourself!

I wouldn’t be doing you any justice if I stopped here, as this is often the most important and frequently neglected step of putting together a jig.

First the skirt needs to be trimmed back to just below the hook. Next, the weed guard needs to be trimmed and split. Consequently, splitting the weed guard will keep more weeds and debris off the hook, as well as protect you from snags should your jig roll onto its side.

Add your favorite trailer and enjoy!

Here comes my signature feature. Adding the rattles.

Complete the jig by making a few more neat wraps. Then seal up the thread.

Bryan Blazek is an avid Bass fisherman and student of fishing. Every day on the water is a learning experience as he fishes to gain insight into the behavior and seasonal patterns predatory fish, especially Bass. You can read up more at Bryan’s blog at Fishing-Headquarters:

fishing-headquarters/afterclassbass/ Lastly we need to trim the skirt and weed guard. Finally, jig is completed.

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March / April, 2011

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Photograph by Bryan Blazek

Photograph by Bryan Blazek Fishing-Headquarters | Page 100

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Fishing-Headquarters.com

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March / April, 2011

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Fishing-Headquarters.com has evolved into an excellent and informative online resource for multi-species fishing in North America. We offer our several hundred members an interactive and multi-media website that allows the free exchange and promotion of fishing and all that encompasses it.

Our website was established on January 1, 2007. Since our inception, we have drawn nearly 600 registered members and attracted several thousands of visitors who read and browse on a daily basis. In addition, we have reached yearly website page views of 5 million, and our homepage receives half a million visits per each calendar year.

Among Google and other popular search engines, when searching for “Multi Species Fishing” and other related keywords, we are ranked among the top ten of all searches. This proves how we are continuously growing, and becoming more popular in the realm of sport fishing.

Click Image to read copy of our 2011 Media Kit.

Need more information? http://www.fishing-headquarters.com/mediakit.html

Please contact us at:

info@fishing-headquarters.com

Fishing-Headquarters | Page 104

Jacob Saylor poses with a 20 inch, 5 lb. Smallmouth Bass from Northern Wisconsin - May, 2010.

May / June 2011 Issue: • Big Country Smallmouth Bass.

• Horsin’ for River Redhorse.

• Early Season Up North Muskies.

• Topwater Techniques for Bass.

• Play in Mud with Bowfin.

• Plus more!

Expected Release Date: May 15th, 2011.

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For article and photo submissions and advertising, contact us at:

info@fishing-headquarters.com

Photograph by Andrew Ragas.