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How's the panfishing on Lake Istokpoga?

Summer months mean that panfish season is ramping up on Lake Istokpoga. Bluegill (bream) and Redear Sunfish (shell crackers) fishing has improved, with fish congregating in their usual spawning areas around the lake. Use red worms and minnows under a cork for bream and red wigglers on or near the bottom for shell crackers. This time of year, these fish will be in bulrush, Kissimmee grass, cattails, and spatterdock (lily pads). So, target those areas when you’re out on the water next. Panfish will spawn on full moons. Be sure to know the lunar schedule for the best chances to catch these fish. The days leading up to the full moon and a few days after are some of the best times in the month to target panfish.

Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) Angler Creel Survey data shows that it’s been a slow start to panfish season this year on Lake Istokpoga, but biologists suspect that it will ramp up as we get into the heat of the summer months. Fall community electrofishing sampling is another great way FWC biologists can assess panfish populations, in addition to the Creel Survey. Bluegill catch rates are consistently the highest catch rates of all species caught during electrofishing sampling in the fall. Biologists are also noting bluegill of all sizes too, which is indicative of a healthy population. For more questions about fisheries on Lake Istokpoga, please contact Sara Menendez at Sara.Menendez@myfwc.com.

— If you have any comments on any information related in this article, please reach out to Sara Menendez at sara.menendez@myfwc.com