Redears @ Ky Lake

[crappiemax]

I will be making my annual trip to Ky lake a little later that usual this year do to work restraints. Were going to be there at the end of April. We always catch a few redears (by accident)when we're there and I thought this year I may give them a try for a portion of my trip.

My question is, what kind of habitat am I looking for when fishing for redear? Also, what kind of bait should I be using?

We usually camp at Hillman Ferry (hopefully they get it open by then) so we're on the north end of the lake, if that matters.

thanks in advance

[M R Dux]

Look for major creeks that have sand/gravel bottoms in the area where the creek channel runs into the lake. Start much deeper than you would for bluegills. I usually start at least 6 feet, sometimes up to 10. I like a small jig with a spider looking trailer but lots of folks use live baits like crickets or red worms. The bait must be in contact with the bottom. If you start catching small bluegills in these areas, move deeper.

[Jigboy]

I agree with mrdux. I catch a lot by accident but usually follow his same pattern and do pretty good.

[Wiskers]

Mrdux is right on. I like to use a pinch of night crawler. I have caught big Redear fishing off the bank right there at the campground at Hillmans. I might even be up there when you are. Go'n up about the 18th for a week or 2.

[KrappieKing]

mrdux is right on as well. One thing i do that has been productive for me is use live bait like redworms on a drop-shot like rig that is used for bass fishing. With a small bell sinker on the bottom with a long shank aberdeen hook tied about 6 to 8 inches above it. It seems to keep the bait off the bottom and right in the strike zone longer. With a slow retreive its deadly...i put the most redears in the freezer last year than i have in quite sometime.

[crappiemax]

Thanks for all the replys. I figured I may have been fishing to shallow.

Wiskers, I hope they get the campgrounds open. I may have to try fishing around there somewhere.