Thread: Sight fishing

Originally Posted by redearhoosier

Finally found a decent bed of big bull shellcrackers and no dice. I think they came in overnight to setup shop because they certainly were not there yesterday. Anyway, I arrived at this spot after the rains and the water was slightly stained. My polarized glasses make it possible to still clearly see the bedding fish.

These are brutes, I'd estimate 1.5lbs across the board. I fished redworms under a small float and couldn't get a hit. As I was getting ready to leave, I finally connected with a monster. The fish fought very hard, pulling drag throughout. As I attempted to land the fish, I got sloppy and tried to flip him in instead of dip netting. WRONG move! My hook popped and the fish swam to freedom.

Needless to say, I was defeated. Hopefully tomorrow brings a better result and a post with pictures!! They sure are interesting to sit and watch, particularly fish this size!

At least you found them! They will be there for a few days.


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If I could find big shellcrackers all year 'round, I don't think I would fish for anything else. Found some today, and going back tomorrow.

We all get complacent at times and lose fish

Glad you found them! Those big uns are smart ! they are very spooky and can be very picky !

I have thought about buying a drone for bed searching

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Originally Posted by redearhoosier

Finally found a decent bed of big bull shellcrackers and no dice. I think they came in overnight to setup shop because they certainly were not there yesterday. Anyway, I arrived at this spot after the rains and the water was slightly stained. My polarized glasses make it possible to still clearly see the bedding fish.

These are brutes, I'd estimate 1.5lbs across the board. I fished redworms under a small float and couldn't get a hit. As I was getting ready to leave, I finally connected with a monster. The fish fought very hard, pulling drag throughout. As I attempted to land the fish, I got sloppy and tried to flip him in instead of dip netting. WRONG move! My hook popped and the fish swam to freedom.

Needless to say, I was defeated. Hopefully tomorrow brings a better result and a post with pictures!! They sure are interesting to sit and watch, particularly fish this size!

I’ve lost count of the times I’ve found beds of shell cracker and spent hours trying to get one to hit. I’ve seen the same with bluegill on occasion but happens more often with the shell cracker.

Regards


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every time I see bedded fish I get excited and about every time I see it I cant them to even look at my offering ….
from bass to bream to crappie they often sit still and ignore every thing under the sun unless you get to close and then they run off and sometimes don't even return …..

If you see them then they can see you. Redear are smarter and spookier than gills for sure. Back away and make longer casts. Once they set up on beds it's difficult to get them to bite but you might get a few if you use small jigs under an inch long. That's all I ever use for redear.