Summer Is Fishing Time

First there's a splash and then rings of ripples move outward. Ponds and lakes become lively places in early summer as bluegills and bass chase bugs and minnows.

June and early July are good months to fish from shore in small waters. Insects, frogs and small fish are moving about in the shallows. Skillet-worthy fish are feeding on them and within casting distance.

Small impoundments provide good fishing for those who fish from shore as well as with boats. Many small lakes also have docks or trails easily accessed by those who use wheelchairs or who have mobility challenges. Fishable waters are found close to home or within easy driving distance for those who enjoy day trips.

Casting lures or bait to standing trees or brush piles is a good technique at any small lake or pond, said Jerry Wiechman, fisheries management biologist with the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Fish may roam along any banks in early summer, but may move to deeper water with cooler temperatures later.

Good lures to use for black bass are buzz baits and top-water lures at sunrise and sunset. Use plastic worms later in the day.

The standard crappie jig may get bit by crappie or any species of fish in any lake.

For catfish, be sure your bait is on the bottom. Good catfish baits are nightcrawlers, worms or stink bait. Live bait such as minnows, goldfish or large minnows, is best to attract large flathead catfish.

For sheer fishing fun, bluegill can't be beat. Use a worm or cricket under a bobber and be ready to fill your stringer with tasty panfish.

Outdoors on 06/12/2014

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