Know Which Areas of Mississippi River to Fish
Punch bait fishing in the Mississippi River is growing in popularity as anglers switch up their tackle and tactics to explore the river’s many species. But with its wide range of depths and habitats, it can be hard to know where you should start. Expert fishermen recommend researching the area you’re fishing beforehand and getting advice from locals. Making sure you’ve chosen the correct depth and water clarity is key for success, as these are two of the most important aspects to consider when fishing punch bait.
Choose the Right Type of Punch Bait
Once you’ve chosen your spot, the next step is to equip yourself with the right type of punch bait. There are a number of different types available on the market, each offering its own advantages. For example, some of the most popular types include: weedless, jigging and bottom-mount. Weedless punch bait is typically better suited for lighter weight lines, while jigging and bottom-mount bait are designed for deeper water fishing. You should also consider the type of fish you’re aiming for. If you’re targeting bass, for example, a weedless punch bait may be the preferable choice.
Spear the Bait with a Hook
Once you’ve chosen the correct bait and tackle, you can begin prepping the bait for fishing. First, you’ll need to thread your punch bait onto a hook. Some anglers use a jigging hook to attach the bait, while others prefer to thread the bait directly onto a regular circular hook. If you’re using a jigging hook, make sure that the sinker is placed far enough away from the bait that the target fish will still be able to detect it.
Place Your Line to the Correct Depth
Before casting your line out into the Mississippi River, you should first determine the right depth for fishing. The best approach is to lower the line until it reaches the bottom and then gradually rewind the line until you reach the desired depth. This is usually done by counting the links on the line or by visualizing how many lines below the surface the bait is. Every punch bait fisherman has their own preferred depth, so make sure you experiment a little before committing yourself to a particular depth.
Add Various Casting Techniques
Once you’ve set up your rig, it’s time to start casting. A straight cast is often the best method for Mississippi river fishing, as it allows the bait to sink deeper and reach the fish quickly. However, you may want to try out various casting techniques such as flipping or jigging to test different depths and find the right spot. It’s also important to remember to reel in your line slowly and consistently to attract the fish and make sure they get the bait.
Check the Reel
Once you think you’ve hooked a fish, the next step is to check your reel. Give the line a good few seconds of attention to ensure that it is not tangled and that it is running smoothly. Tangles can stop the fish from taking the bait, ruining your chances of a successful catch. If you notice any problems with the line, take the time to untangle it before continuing with the next step.
Reel the Fish Into Shallow Water
When the fish is on the line, begin to reel it in towards shallower waters. Be sure to move the line steadily so that you do not induce any shock or trauma onto the fish. Do not make any sudden moves or jerk the rod as this can cause the fish to become frightened and swim away. As the fish gets shallower and nearer to the boat or bank, you can prepare your net or use a fishing glove for removing the fish from the hook.
Know About Targets and Bait Accessories
One of the best ways to maximize your success when fishing is to know the most popular targets on the river and the bait accessories they require. It is important to understand the kind of bait you will need to use and the necessary tackle that goes with it. For example, if you are looking to catch walleye in the Mississippi, then you will need to use live bait such as nightcrawlers or minnows, along with tackle specifically designed for walleye fishing.
Experience Tips on Mississippi River
It is also important to listen to experienced anglers and gain tips from locals when fishing on the Mississippi. Experienced fishers may have insight into techniques and locations that you would not have known about, and locals can share stories about past successes and failures that may help you become a better angler. Building up a network of contacts on the river is one of the best ways to enjoy your time fishing and get the most out of your experience.
know the Fish and Seasonal Changes
Finally, you should also be aware of seasonal changes and the fish species available on the Mississippi River. For example, certain species may be more abundant during particular times of the year, while others may not be present at certain times. Understanding the seasonality of the fish can help you decide which areas to target. Other fish may migrate upriver or downriver depending on the time of year, and these migrations must also be taken into account when fishing punch bait in the Mississippi River.
