From mid September through at least mid October, I enjoy traveling to a nearby pond and fishing for bluegills and black crappies. The weather is usually perfect and the skies are clear with just a hint of the upcoming cooler weather. I have come to the conclusion that fishing is a very dignified way of doing absolutely nothing. Even on the days when the fish are elusive to the bait, just enjoying God’s creation is enough for me. Of course when the live basket contains 10 or 15 or 20 fish, things are even nicer. The set up for autumn pan fishing is very simple and usually is quite reliable. As the water of the pond starts to cool after the hot days of July & August, fish slowly start to come in toward shore from the deeper cooler waters as there is more feed, usually minnows and bugs, near shore. In summer, many species of fish feed only in the very early morning or near dusk. At age 68, I am no longer a pre- dawn riser from bed. If it is still dark, I hold my reclining position until it gets light. Mid afternoon is a fine time to fish. Cloudy days are best for pan fishing; but go when you can. A light breeze is a great thing. I use an ultra light spinning rod and 4 pound test line. I like a small jig and a foam bobber. The squirming squirt jig bodies in yellow and white, all white or all yellow work just fine. If there is any wind, you want to be facing into it when you cast out your lure. Fish set up to feed and rest with the wind carrying food to them. It there is no wind, no problem, fish in any direction. I like to cast out using the clock system. Start say at 12, next cast to the 3, then the 9 position and in between. If you have a hit in one position, or catch a fish, cast in the same place on the next cast. Pan fish, especially bluegills and crappies are often a schooling fish. When the action slows, move 25 yards and repeat the same technique. I like to put the fish in a rubber tub and refrigerate them overnight. Filleting them the next day is far easier. After the fish are filleted, soak them in salt water for several hours. I like to freeze them in water. They will easily keep for one year. Good fishing!
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