About Fishing Barkley Lake for Redear

Barkley Lake is a prime location for anglers looking to reel in some redear sunfish. These freshwater fish, also known as shellcrackers, are a popular catch due to their delicious taste and challenging fight. If you're interested in fishing for redear sunfish at Barkley Lake, here is everything you need to know to have a successful outing.

Understanding Redear Sunfish

Redear sunfish are known for their distinctive red or orange operculum flap, which sets them apart from other sunfish species. These fish prefer warm, clear waters with plenty of vegetation and structure to hide in. At Barkley Lake, you can find redear sunfish near submerged trees, brush piles, and rocky areas.

Best Time to Fish

Redear sunfish are most active during the spring and early summer months when water temperatures range from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to target redear sunfish, as they tend to feed more actively during these periods. While redear will feed better at times during early morning and late afternoon, when the spawn is underway, the bite can be great all day long.

Techniques for Success

When fishing for redear sunfish at Barkley Lake, try using small jigs or flies tipped with worms or small baitfish. Cast your line near underwater structures and let it sink slowly to the bottom. I use the Hairy Cricket Jig or the Slab Dragon Panfish and Trout bait.

With the Hairy Cricket hand-tied jig, I like to tip it with a small piece of nightcrawler. With the rubber wings and 1/32oz jighead, it falls slowly through the water column. With a lift and drop retrieve, lifting the jig off the bottom, allowing it to fall back to the bottom, and sitting for a few seconds before lifting again. This technique was the only one I used for many years. I will add a small split-shot 12 inches above the jig in order to fish quicker. When I locate some redear, I remove the split-shot so that the fall is slower. This works great.

This past year, I finally decided on a plastic bait after testing several. I now offer the Slab Dragon Panfish Bait in my store, and it is the only thing I have used this year for bluegills and redear, and I love it. The Slab Dragon is scented and salted, and the panfish love them. I have caught bluegills, redear, largemouth bass, and several big crappie with it. Check out the Slab Dragon here and support our mission here at Rambling Angler Outdoors.

Tackle and Gear

For redear sunfish, light tackle is key. A 4-6-pound test line paired with a sensitive rod will help you detect the subtle bites of these fish. Consider using a small bobber to keep your bait at the right depth and a size 6-10 hook to secure your bait effectively.

Regulations and Limits

Before heading out to fish for redear sunfish at Barkley Lake, make sure to familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations and limits. Always obtain the necessary fishing license and adhere to size and creel limits to help preserve the fish population for future generations.

With the right knowledge and techniques, fishing for redear sunfish at Barkley Lake can be a rewarding experience. Remember to respect the environment and practice catch-and-release whenever possible to ensure the sustainability of this beloved species.