Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - May/June 2020 - 61

photo-Jerry Bush

Angler's Notebook
by Jerry Bush

Children's fishing events in Pennsylvania typically occur
during May and June. A parent or guardian must have a
license to assist a child in fishing.
Splitshot weights made of lead, brass, tin, or tungsten are
important for anglers who fish Pennsylvania streams. Often,
placing bait or lures in the strike zone is more important than
the selection of lure. Therefore, various sizes of splitshot is
necessary. Some splitshot weights are simple balls of material
with a slit cut into the side where the line is crimped. These
smooth, round balls sink well, and the simple design helps
avoid snags. However, once crimped, these splitshot weights
cannot be removed without cutting line. Removable splitshot
weights are manufactured with butterfly tabs protruding
from the sides. Pinching the tabs together opens the slit when
repositioning or replacing the weight.
Crappie anglers often use fishing rods that measure 10- to
18-feet in length when fishing in clear water or shallow water.
These rods are also useful when seeking Bluegills while using
jig baits in clear water or shallow water. Extremely long rods
are useful for shore anglers, allowing anglers to place bait in
front of fish that may be out of reach. Most long rods offer
extraordinary feel, so light bites can be detected. However,
some long rods are intended for trolling to keep lines and
baits away from spinning propellers. Those rods are stiffer
and offer less notification of soft biting fish when jigging.

Stumps of tree trunks are
bass holding structures. "Stump
hopping" can be productive for
bass anglers. Keep a minimum of three rods and reels ready
for use. Equip at least two rods with crankbaits of different
colors, and rig the other rod with a jig, tipped with soft
plastic bait. Prevent the tip of the jig's hook from poking
through the soft bait to avoid snags. If conditions are cloudy,
cast the first crankbait several times beyond the stump, and
reel it each time it is close to the stump. If a bass does not
take the first lure, repeat using the rod and reel with the
second crankbait. On sunny days, buzz the crankbaits along
the shady side of structures. If the crankbaits are unfruitful,
move in closer and drop the bait-tipped jig near the roots of
the stump.
Drifting should be considered when fishing in a river
or stream from a canoe or kayak. Paddle only enough to
propel the watercraft toward the structure, but stop paddling
well before reaching it with a goal of allowing bait to pass
through the targeted area at a current-matching speed.
Consider deploying a drift sock to slow the drift. Drifting
must be done safely. Never allow the watercraft or drift aid
to be dragged into or against any structure that could pin the
watercraft and flip it. Even slow currents may be powerful
enough to pin a strong adult.

Fishin' from the Kitchen
Panfish nuggets with dipping sauces

by Wayne Phillips

Crispy panfish nuggets are sure to please both young and old.
Ingredients for four servings:
* 16 ounces boneless,
skinless panfish fillets
* 1 cup flour
* 1 Tsp baking powder
* 1 egg yolk

Procedure

*
*
*
*
*

Pinch of salt
2 cups beer or club soda
2 cups canola oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Dipping sauces of your choice

Cut the panfish fillets into bite size pieces. Mix together
flour, baking powder, egg yolk, and salt. Add a cup of
liquid, and whisk until smooth. Add another cup of
liquid, and whisk until smooth. The mixture should be
like pancake batter. Heat the canola oil in a deep sauce
pot until it reaches 350 degrees F. Batter the fish. Fry, a
few pieces at a time, until golden brown. Drain the fish on
a paper towel. Season with salt and black pepper. Spoon
sauces into small containers.
www.fishandboat.com

Serve

Place a
container
of sauce on
a plate, and
surround it with
golden nuggets.

Tips

ips
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photo

Using a carbonated liquid helps keep the batter light
and allows it to become crispy. Using beer adds more
flavor. The darker, heavier beers pack lots of extra flavor.
Using commercial sauces is quick and easy.
Children will love ranch dressing, ketchup, or a
mixture of ketchup and mayonnaise. For adults, try a
mild hot sauce, Asian sweet chili sauce, tartar sauce, or
tomatillo sauce.

Pennsylvania Angler & Boater * May/June 2020

61
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Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - May/June 2020

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