Catch Fish in Rivers by Bob Jensen

CATCH FISH IN RIVERS
By Bob Jensen

Rivers flow throughout the Midwest, and most of them have great populations of a wide variety of fish. Many anglers realize the productivity of rivers; in fact, some anglers limit their fishing to rivers. Now, I wouldn’t recommend fishing rivers exclusively because lakes also provide some outstanding fishing action. However, I do understand why some anglers would concentrate their fishing efforts on rivers. Plain and simple, rivers produce a lot of fish on a regular basis. Here are some ideas how you can catch more fish in rivers during the summer months.

Current in rivers is like structure in lakes. Almost all river fish relate to current. Some like to be in areas of a little current, others species of fish prefer a little faster current. Most fish that are willing to bite will be at the edge of the current. Most of the time you will want to present your lures so they are right on the edge of the current. Not always, but usually.

A jig/plastic combination will usually be a great choice for many species of river-dwelling fish. Walleyes, bass, panfish, pike, they will all eat a jig/plastic.

If you’re just looking to get bit, try a Mimic Minnow jighead with a three-inch Power Grub or Gulp! Minnow Grub. River fish are often pretty aggressive and will hit a bait regardless of color, but it still is a good idea to experiment with color. Sometimes you’ll catch more or bigger fish with a particular color or color pattern. Orange or chartreuse seem to be good river colors for most river species.

Use a jig heavy enough to maintain some bottom contact and that the current won’t sweep away too fast. You won’t be dragging the jig usually: most of the time a swimming retrieve will be better.

Line that is a little heavier than you would ordinarily use with a jig is recommended in rivers, especially in rocky or timber areas. Eight-pound test Trilene XT is a very good choice. A medium action Lightning or Series One rod with an Abu Garcia Cardinal 602 reel makes a nice jigging outfit.

Remember that hungry river fish will often be facing upstream. Cast your jig or drift it so it is working downstream into the fish’s face. By doing so you will be presenting the bait in a very natural manner. Wounded bugs or minnows move downstream and the predator fish whack them as they move downstream. If you want your jig to get whacked, it should be moving downstream whenever possible.

Rivers are everywhere in the Midwest, and they provide some wonderful fishing opportunities. Find out for yourself this year how good they can be.

For more fish-catching information, visit fishingthemidwest.com