Bluegill fishing

[Flash]

Some here know that I'm pretty new to angling. I basically throws rapalas and catch/release whatever bites. The last couple of times out, while throwing J9 jointed Rapalas to the shallows, I've caught 2 bluegills. The trebles are bigger than their mouths. It was kind of neat and got me thinking about bluegill fishing. I got an ultra light pole, small spinning reel, 4# test and a jar of Gulp earthworms.

Problem: what size hooks are used for bluegills?

Yesterday morning while dangling a wormed hook over the side, I could literally watch the bluegills bite off pieces of worm, but none took the hook. So - maybe the hook was too big.

Anyway, just trying to add to the knowledge base and have a fall back - for those occassions when I refuse to get skunked.

Thanks :coolgleam

[wyldkat49766]

I think ours are usually a 6 or an 8.

[fishwiz]

Size 8's or 10's, personaly I like 10's with a wax worm. Usually depends
on the bait your using. Good Luck!!

[KI Jim]

I use a #6 long shank, thin wire gold colored hook. I do not like to use smaller because there are too many that will swallow the hook and it kills 'em. The #6 is big enough so they rarely swallow 'em, the long shank makes it easier to remove, the thin wire makes hookups easier and the gold color seems to stand out less.

Jim

[Bagman]

I love when the gills are so aggressive they hit those bigger lures.

My biggest yesterday out of Lake St. Helen came on a blue jointed rapala I was throwing for pike.

Most fish caught were with lil' squirt tubes with a minnow. 2 to 4 pound line.

By the way water was 64 degrees. By next week should be some really good fishing.

[Bluegill]

I use a No. 6 Aberdeen hook, dark colored. Make sure that the point is sharp. When you put your bait on it have it so you can just feel the tip of the hook. Then when the bluegill bites he's right on the hook.

Bluegill

[uptracker]

Same thing Bluegill said....

[Flash]

Truly appreciate the replys. I picked up some #6 hooks last night and imediately concluded that the hooks I used last Sunday were TOO BIG. I'll give these a try and see what little critters I can entice to shake my line.

happy fishing. :fish:


:coolgleam

[kroppe]

I'm a smaller-hook-is-better guy, probably influenced by trout fishing. Anything smaller than 8 is good, but I use size 12 and 14 if that's all I have in my fishing vest.

We're headed up to Ontario this weekend, can't wait. Bluegills should be on the beds.