Thread: Questions from a newbie fisherman

A DF is not a must have but very helpful in finding the fish, and structure that fish hang out at, such as drop offs, submerged trees, stumps, etc., etc., If you know the layout of the bottom, then no issue. Any ultra light rig will work, I call 'em fairy wands as you get even a "throw back" on, and it feels like a 5 lber to me. 4 lb test is also good as it keeps you from rippin' their paper lips out as well. Some use minnows, some use plastic, caribou jigs, etc., search the different forums and you'll see what everybody has a preference for. I use plastic grubs and caribou jigs, sometimes both are tipped with plastic minnows or something else in an attempt to create something they want to try and eat. I don't want to mess with live bait, a hassle to me.

Does any one do catch and release? Believe it or not, I am not that crazy about eating fish, although I did have some good walleye in canada last year.

Welcome on board TomKat. Can't help much with Perry tips as Iam on the south side of state but alot of northeast guys can help. Lot of fishers do practice catch and release and then some say catch and release in the grease. Think crappie is right up there with wallys for table fare. Good luck and hookem.

"Catch n release" not me, crappie taste too good.

At Perry I would just go to any of the bridges and drop a jig to the bottom with any plastic tube, etc on it and move around slowly using your trolling motor and bounce that jig on the rocks. Sometimes they are suspended too. There are fish in those areas year round. The depthfinder can be very helpful. Even a cheap one will help you increase your catch and learn more about your area that you are fishing....I have seen them on craigslist for as little as $25....just look around and you can find a deal on one just to get you started. It will help you stay in the depths the fish are located once you have caught a few...Sometimes that change of 1 foot can be all the difference in the world. Good Luck!

Heck I got out fished the other day by a fourteen year old using an ultralite with 4lb test. That seemed to be the recipe. As my braided line was put to shame.

thanks...I bet that 14 year old could outdo me, too. I am entering into this for fun, and to fill time between duck seasons.

Does any one ever use a bobber to catch crappie?