[dropcap]J[/dropcap]une is a great month for pan fish and bass fishing on the central St. Johns River. Artificial baits such as rattle traps, fast moving shallow running crank baits and spinner baits will produce good bass catches this month. When the weather warms up, switch to dark colored plastic worms or deep running crank baits on the drop offs on the main St. Johns River. Keep an eye out for threadfin shad which are abundant this time of year and are easy to catch using a small cast net. You can also use a small wild shiner, either way, be sure to use a light wire hook so not to weigh down these fragile baits.
Summer months are known for bluegill, shell cracker’s and limits of pan fish. When the fish are not bedding pitch crickets or worms along the shoreline using light line and a small float. Artificial baits will also work. Try using a 1/32oz beetle spin
against tree tops and shoreline cover. Four to five days before the full moon locate bedding areas in Lake Woodruff and target shell beds as the fish begin to prepare for the spawn.
Ask us for a free map and we will highlight productive fishing areas. To have a productive day of fishing, it is important to start early before the weather gets too hot.
Call Highland Park Fish Camp for an up to date fishing report. 1-800-525-3477
By Capt. Bryan Rawlins