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Fishing, Fly Fishing

How Trout See Color… Fly Fishing with Confidence!

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Trout, those colorful and captivating creatures expertly darting through streams at Briarwood Sporting Club and through other Ohio waters, possess many adaptations that suit their aquatic life. Their vision plays a critical role, especially when it involves the perception of color – and that matters to all of us who are pursuing them on the fly! Let’s dive into how these fish experience the world visually and what research has to say on the matter. A primary focus of my Master’s research at The Ohio State University centered on fish vision which has continued to drive my interest nearly 40 years later.  How do trout perceive color? Bear with me as we dig into some science. Unlike humans, trout have vision tailored to their watery home, enabling them to detect a range of colors. This capability is crucial in the murky or clear waters they often inhabit. And we have those varying conditions at one of the midwest’s premiere fishing clubs, Briarwood, located in Bellfontaine, Ohio. The retina of a trout’s eye is rich in cones, the cells responsible for color vision in bright light. These cones contain pigments sensitive to different wavelengths of light, thereby allowing trout to perceive various colors across the spectrum, but primarily in the blue and green wavelengths. However, it’s important to note the differences in their environment. Underwater scenes have a distinct light quality, and colors can appear muted or quite different. Despite these variations, trout’s color vision helps them in distinguishing prey, navigating their habitat, and even recognizing other trout. Yes, some more science…but it is essential… Researchers have long been intrigued by the ability of trout to see colors. And if you want to hook some of these Ohio trout, you should care about this too.  Various studies conducted over the years have shed light on just how sophisticated trout color vision is. One such study in the Pacific Northwest explored how different species of trout respond to natural prey and colored flies under varying light conditions. The findings revealed that trout do have a preference for certain colors, which can change depending on the available light and water clarity. Also, electro-chemical tests on trout eyes have clearly indicated trout can see a wide range of colors. These studies reflect a complex system of color detection in trout, and how they react to various colors, proving trout can interpret colors. This is vital to us fly anglers.  Ah yes, let’s now focus on fly selection – what and when…  So as anglers, we now understand that the color vision of trout is in fact, important; it impacts the selection of flies. Seasoned anglers know that “matching the hatch”, or using flies that mimic the color and appearance of local prey, can significantly increase the chances of attracting trout. For example, at Briarwood we know that the trout will react to flies that have colors akin to crayfish, stoneflies, mayflies, chironomids, grubs and a host of terrestrials like grasshoppers, beetles, ants, or various worms that may fall in the water. Moreover, considering the light conditions and water clarity can guide the choice of lure color to ensure it stands out or appears natural to the trout, depending on the desired approach. Selecting the right colored fly is speaking the visual language of trout. Trout are most sensitive to blue and green light spectrums, with some species also quite sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. When choosing flies, in addition to matching prey coloration, consider the following tips: The effectiveness of your colored fly also depends significantly on how and where you present it in the water. Consider these best practices: Anything else I should keep in mind? Ultimately, success in fishing is about understanding your target and its environment. Here are additional tips to consider: Conclusion In wrapping up, understanding trout’s ability to see color adds an invaluable layer to your fishing strategies. Fly fishing for trout in Ohio can be tough enough, but like with anything where there is an “us and them” component, know everything you can about your foe! It’s clear from decades of research and our own experiences, that trout do indeed perceive colors. This insight means that choosing flies isn’t just throwing out a line in hope. It’s a thoughtful decision. Happy fishing and tight lines my fishing friends! 

Fishing, Fly Fishing

Spring Fly Fishing for Largemouth Bass

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Spring Fly Fishing for Largemouth Bass Ahh, the celebrated largemouth bass. This highly sought, aggressive sportfish is surely the most widely recognized fish for anglers of all abilities, especially for the eastern half of the U.S. The species is truly a legendary fishing target – in fact, ask the more seasoned circles of bass fanatics who for years have referred to the big ones as hawgs, pigs, toads, lunkers, studs, bruisers, and of course, wallhangers! Few other species have that killer instinct reputation with bragging rights status for the angler. At Briarwood Sporting Club, a 440 acre private fishing club and hunting preserve located in Logan County, Ohio, you can find these impressive fish in all of our ponds and lakes, from North Lake to Perch Pond. With the water temperatures rising above 55 degrees right now, largemouth are ready to eat (actually, devour) as we roll into late April!  Fly Fishing for Largemouth Bass For me and many other anglers, there is no more exciting way to land a hawg than with a fly rod. Sure, most people can catch a bass with spinning or casting gear, and certainly live bait. But with a little expert guidance, you can gain the bragging rights of getting that lunker while fly fishing for largemouth bass here at your club – and the excitement only fly gear provides! For that expert guidance, I turned to two proficient anglers (who also happen to be Briarwood members) who have a wealth of largemouth bass fly fishing experience. They each have more than 35 years of angling for bass and many other species under their belt. Max Reiner and Steve Moore were happy to share their experience, wisdom, and gear tips.  Max Reiner started fishing at the age of 3 and caught his first fish, a hybrid bluegill, in a small pond. He was hooked immediately. He has fished around the country and beyond for many, many species with equipment he designs and builds. He has also served as a professional fishing guide. His favorite species to pursue by fly are carp and musky. Steve Moore started fishing when he was 5 and his first fish was a bluegill as well. Since then, he has seized every opportunity to fish with a passion, using his hand-tied flies – many of his own design. He has closely studied the nuances of fish behavior and how seasons, weather, and water quality are so closely connected to fishing success. His favorite species to pursue by fly is the steelhead.  Interviewing the Fishing Experts “What is the most unusual place you’ve fished?” Max: That is an easy answer for me – several unnamed atolls in the Pacific for dogtooth tuna and giant trevally. Steve: I would love to say something neat and obscure such as fishing native brook trout in Labrador Canada, but I’m actually kind of lame – it is my backyard. There is a pond in my neighborhood that when flooded will frequently back up into my yard.  This creates a perfect situation for largemouth bass to swim up the fake channel looking for all kinds of new food sources, as well as my flies, apparently.  “I know you guys have some intriguing experience like guiding and making your own fly gear – please share more.” Max: I started guiding when I was 20 in Alabama, when I should have been in my college accounting classes in Ohio. I did two several-month stints guiding for red fish and speckled trout in the Gulf region of Alabama and Louisiana. Mostly sight fishing and skinny water. My experience building lures, flies, and rods came out of necessity because at the time a lot of the species I was chasing did not have properly designed tackle available from mainstream manufacturers. It has morphed into building beautiful tools for anglers that take a lot of pride in their gear and are pursuing a specific and hard-to-catch species. I really enjoy making flies and lures, as well as rods. I have been able to share this passion with members I have met at Briarwood.  Steve: Tying flies is one of my favorite things to do; almost equally as much as the fishing itself. I’m always looking to both innovate with new patterns, as well as improve on old favorites. I particularly enjoy tying up a small box of flies the night before a trip to the water, which will be specific to the conditions and fish I will be targeting. Few things are as satisfying and enjoyable to me as catching a fish on a fly that I tied myself – especially some new and creative ones I designed like my latest I call the “flypala.” “What is it about the largemouth bass that’s so appealing to you as an angler?” Max: I would say accessibility, its range in Ohio and the Midwest, combined with the ability of the species to live in lakes, streams, and rivers of varying water quality and temperature. Their range of forage and how they can be caught is equally appealing. And on a personal note, I can’t understand any angler not thoroughly enjoying a largemouth blowing up on a top water fly! On a calm morning at Briarwood, there is nothing more awesome than that water breaking open and a hawg taking your topwater fly. Steve: The appeal of catching largemouth bass to me is quite extensive. They are an aggressive species that is widely available geographically. You can fish for largemouth bass in nearly any pond, lake, or ditch as well as in the rivers.  And this certainly is true at the Briarwood Sporting Club. This makes it a familiar fish that you can become quite adept and skilled at catching.  There is also a very versatile set of tactics to use, particularly topwater, which can keep the fishing always fresh and fun. The visual display of a popper getting taken down by a bass is something to be seen.   Largemouth bass are also appealing in that they are a great combination

Fishing

Think Like A Bass

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Early Season Bass Fishing  Just the facts please: Days are longer. Trees are budding and blooming. Birds are singing. Bass are on the move. Those are facts. Your mission? To find bass and catch them.  Yes, spring has arrived and water temperatures, welcomed sunshine, and spring rains are causing the fish to move from their winter deep-water homes to secondary points, and ultimately spawning grounds. So, let’s help you read that favorite lake of yours so you can target the hot spots for casting your favorite baits and lures.   In this post I am going to focus solely on finding the bass and helping us all understand why we will find them in certain locations during this time of the year. Let’s hit the water and think like a bass…  From the depths  Largemouth, Smallmouth and Stripers have been laying low in the depths during the winter. Not really feeding but storing reserves and waiting for spring like us. You can find them on the drop offs and deep banks – you know, the transition zones. But with the water temperatures now around 50 degrees and rising, they are on the move. You can certainly fish these spots for bass which are starting to feed and have some success, but the big catch is yet to come. Fish those points where the shoreline descends sharply right into the waterline. Read the topography of the surrounding area and look for color changes in the water to help indicate depth in the lake. But as days warm, focus on the hot spots.  Moving on   Warm days, punctuated by the power from sun filled skies and warm breezes, are causing the water to reach critical spawning range of 55-65 degrees. Lunkers are leaving those deep winter homes and starting to look for forage; bait fish, crayfish, and frogs. They are on the move, foraging and slowly traveling from point to point, seeking critical structure. They have two priorities now – look for food and begin their move to the foliage shallows, coves, and flats for spawning.   As bass are moving toward spawning grounds, they are beginning to actively feed – bulking up for the spawn. And like most predators, they like both protection and ambush cover afforded them by structure – both artificial, like docks and additive features including brush, pallet piles, and stake beds, and natural lake features – which we will cover next. Bass instinctively, and through learned behavior, know that most of these structures are holding the prey they are seeking, especially areas that lie between the surface and up to about six feet deep. These key features will be your casting target zones. Stopping for a bite  Now your job is to read the lake; recognize and understand its features. And, you have to think like a predator who is driven to survive and reproduce. What does the lake have to offer a bass in this ‘eat and reproduce mentality?’ The easy structures to find are the docks and if you know them, the locations of submerged structure or visible rock piles. But moving water coming from streams, inlet pipes and through channels can be excellent bass habitat. Flowing water attracts bass for two reasons – more oxygen and stirred up prey for bass (and equally important, more food for the bass prey!) At Briarwood, our lakes are fed by natural springs connected to each other via spillways and drain pipe. Areas close to these inlets create great fishing opportunities when the flow rate is high. But beyond this, look for the obvious and not so obvious points. These are known as secondary structures which are attractive to bass. Look for natural shoreline points, subtle coves, deeper cattail beds, shoreline dropoffs and submerged vegetation beds, and, even smaller rock structures. Read the shore and surrounding land for geologic and topographic changes that might be impacting the adjacent lake areas. Further, look for changes in water color, and even wave patterns or naturally, the evidence of bait fish. Any changes to the lakebed and shoreline can be excellent stopping and holding points for bass as they are on the move. This is especially true if they are located near shallow areas (2-3 feet deep) where spawning beds have been seen in prior years. Also note that heavy rains or storms may keep bass on these holding spots for even longer periods as water quality can confuse their natural movement patterns.  Ask us!  From mid-April to mid-May, bass fishing at Briarwood is excellent. When fishing one of our many lakes, ponds and streams, don’t hesitate to ask a Briarwood team member for our insight about structure and attractive lake features on any of our lakes or streams. We don’t keep that information secret!     Tight lines my friends ~ Drew  For over 40 years Briarwood Sporting Club has been a “slice of wilderness” in central Ohio, delivering a relaxed atmosphere of soothing freshwater amid breathtaking rolling hills, meadows, and timber. Four streams are home to some very impressive “wall ready” trout – including rainbows, brown, brook, golden, blue and calico.  As a majestic and vast landscape, Briarwood abounds with plentiful Ohio trophy whitetails, lunker bass, slab panfish, and other finned favorites. Gorgeous hardwoods, pines, and meadows present a habitat that has plentiful food plots and wildlife openings.   First-class lodging, 5-star service, a welcoming loafing lodge, and incredible and diverse wildlife viewing complete the perfect outdoor escape to create an unforgettable experience.  To discover more visit www.briarwoodclub.com, or email Drew at drew@briarwoodclub.com  Drew McCartt is an avid freshwater fisherman for over 50 years and a member at Briarwood for more than five. Here he serves as Director of Sporting Services.  Briarwood Sporting Club is a private fishing club located in Bellefontaine, Ohio. 

Fishing, Fly Fishing

Chompin’ at the Bit

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Early Spring Trout Fly Fishing Spring is in the air… longer and warmer days are here. And that means only one thing – the trout are getting more active and we have all been chomping at the bit to get out. Especially with this pandemic keeping us inside. And without a doubt, fly fishing for trout can be the perfect way to get away from it all – especially since you are outdoors and generally away from others – naturally social distancing. And please do be safe and follow the appropriate distancing and hygiene guidelines we all know about. Here in Ohio, water temps are creeping up, and aside from heavy spring downpours, water is clearing up. So, let’s get after those finned favorites. Join us at Briarwood Sporting Club, an Ohio trout fishing club, to discover our little slice of fishing heaven at this wonderful time of year. And to start you out, here are my favorite early Spring tips for trout…  The fish are chillin’ The water temperatures vary right now with some cooler nights and warmer days – and even different parts of the streams vary. As the water begins to consistently and slowly rise above 50F, we know the trout will be feeding. Regardless, for now try fishing deeper, and a bit more slowly until those temps reach above 50 consistently when we know we will see fish feeding closer to the surface. Try a strike indicator if you want to keep it off the bottom. At Briarwood Sporting Club right now, we are seeing water temps in the upper 40s to mid 50s in streams, lakes and ponds. Go big with flash With slower moving fish and a murky, colder home, throw something bigger and flashier. Give it a try! Start using different streamers, like bright clouser minnows, larger chartreuse buggers with some tinsel, and simply favorite flies outside your normal color range are worth a cast. If you usually throw something with a size 12 or 14 hook, go for size 10. Bottomline, get their attention. Last April, a buddy and I tried size 8 articulated streamers at Briarwood Sporting Club and we both caught very large Rainbows with just a few casts, and then a few Goldens. And I don’t know if it was the streamer, but boy did they fight! Make it a double If you don’t normally use a dropper, now is the perfect time. Two is better than one, especially if you want to get their attention. As a refresher, a dropper is a 18-24” piece of tippet tied off the shank of your first fly hook – in this case, try a wooly bugger, streamer, zonker, or a large leech beadhead. On the end of the tippet you tie a smaller fly – I like to try a WD-40, or of course a perfect fly for now, a black zebra midge. (The latter is a fly box must have – sizes 14-20.) Fish this combo slow and deep at first. With double the trouble, you can get their attention. Fish outside the box This is the hardest concept for me, and I would imagine you as well. Simply trying something different. Does it seem like you are always using the same flies and fishing in the same spots? Don’t get me wrong, you have your favorites for a reason. But trying new flies and new parts of the favorite stream has rewarded me, especially at slower times. And now some of those flies, like the WD-40, have become a favorite spring fly. Dig through your flybox and tie on something you bought for a reason some point in the past, you know, the one with cobwebs dangling?! Now is a great time to try something different and new for you. Also, try those areas which appear deeper, those out of the way and tougher to reach, or perhaps an area where our finned friends can lie in ambush.   And…just…be…patient… Don’t fish often bite when you are looking elsewhere, chatting with a buddy, texting a friend a pic of the last whopper, simply daydreaming, or sometimes when you are just slowly retrieving that fly from the water? Sometimes it pays to simply wait a bit especially with these conditions. Let the fish find your offering this time!  Tight lines my friends ~ Drew  Drew McCartt, a fly angler for nearly 30 years and a member at Briarwood for more than five serves as Director of Sporting Services at the private fishing club located in Bellefontaine, Ohio.  To discover more about Briarwood Sporting Club visit our website, www.briarwoodclub.com,  or email  Drew at drew@briarwoodclub.com  For over 40 years Briarwood Sporting Club has been a “slice of wilderness” in central Ohio, delivering a relaxed atmosphere of soothing freshwater amid breathtaking rolling hills, meadows, and timber. Four streams are home to some very impressive “wall ready” trout – including rainbows, brown, brook, golden, blue and calico.  As a majestic and vast landscape, Briarwood abounds with plentiful Ohio trophy whitetails, lunker bass, slab panfish, and other finned favorites. Gorgeous hardwoods, pines, and meadows present a habitat that has plentiful food plots and wildlife openings.   First-class lodging, 5-star service and food, a welcoming loafing lodge, and incredible and diverse wildlife viewing complete the perfect outdoor escape to create an unforgettable experience. 

Fishing, Fly Fishing

Ohio’s World-Class Trout & Fly Fishing Club

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Fly fishing for trout and their beautiful colors is a life-long passion that hooks more than just a few anglers. Ohio may not be the first state that comes to mind for trout fishing. However, unbeknownst to many, the trout fishing it harbors is world-class and the opportunity for the best fly fishing and trout fishing experience is right here in the Buckeye State. Ohio’s Premier Trout Club It is a known secret in the area that the best fly fishing and trout fishing in Ohio is located at Briarwood Sporting Club in Bellefontaine, Ohio just outside of Columbus. It is also no secret, that to a trout angler, there is just not a replacement for the days spent casting a fly to an unsuspecting trout at an incredible location. The kind of days where everything is as it should be with beautiful waters and even more beautiful fish. Briarwood Sporting Club has long since provided these kinds of days on the water to fly fishermen and trout fishermen alike with the location and trophy trout to be Ohio’s top fly fishing club. The Diversity of Fish & Rare Trout The diversity of public water trout in Ohio is often limited by the resources available. However, private fly fishing and fishing clubs, such as Briarwood, are not constrained by these limitations and species diversity is one of the many great assets of belonging to a private fishing club. Briarwood Sporting Club is the home to many species of trout which includes the popular Rainbow, Brown, and Brook Trout. Briarwood Sporting Club also features unique and exotic variations of Rainbow Trout: the Golden Rainbow Trout, Calico Trout, and the Blue Rainbow Trout. These trout are seldom found elsewhere and their rarity makes them a prized catch that Briarwood Sporting Club offers. Quality of Fish & Trophy Trout Potential An incredible day of trout fishing means different things to different fly fishermen and trout fishermen alike. Whether that perfect day trout fishing includes seclusion, fishing alongside family, beautiful weather, or just wetting a line, there is one thing universal: catching not only a trout but a big trout. Briarwood Sporting Club offers not only a beautiful place to catch and fish for trout but also one of the best opportunities in Ohio to catch a trophy trout. Often time’s public waters cannot keep up with angling demand and many trout that are stocked lack the potential to grow to large sizes. At Briarwood Sporting Club, we stock our waters with trout ranging from 1lb to 12lb’s plus.  With a forage base that we’ve established and also the one in which nature provides, we are able to create a habitat that nourishes and sustains our fishery. Thus providing an environment that enables our guests to consistently catch large, healthy trout. Also, while not required, many fly anglers at Briarwood choose to practice catch & release fishing. Catching and releasing a fish provides that much more opportunity for growth and for the next angler fly fishing to catch the fish of a lifetime. Peaceful Streams, Spacious Water & Family Fishing Areas The best fly fishing and trout fishing in Ohio starts not just at the fish, but at the location and with the angler. Briarwood Sporting Club has not only the picturesque trout fishing waters but also an environment that elicits a peaceful yet exciting fishing experience for anglers. The excitement comes from knowing the very next cast could be an exceptionally beautiful or trophy-sized trout and the peacefulness comes from the spacious location to focus on just that. Briarwood Sporting Club features 4 different trout streams that are spring fed and not lacking in space or beauty. For the fly fishermen, there are specially designated trout streams dedicated to fly fishing only. The art of fly casting paired with streams that team with fly hatches leads to the best dry fly fishing in Ohio. The exceptional opportunity for world-class trout fishing also exists for families and children, at Briarwood Sporting Club. Special areas were made specifically to help introduce the next generation to the sport of fishing. In these special areas both fly fishing and traditional spin fishing is allowed to ensure children are started off with an exceptional day fishing to lead into a lifelong passion of trout fishing. Other Unique Fishing Opportunities While Briarwood Sporting Club is known for the best trout fishing and fly fishing in Ohio, it is important to not overlook the fact that there also exist some other unique fishing opportunities at Briarwood. As with the diversity in trout species, there too is a great diversity of other fish species. Both smallmouth and largemouth bass, stripers, multiple panfish species, and even tiger muskie are in Briarwood Sporting Club’s 16 lakes and 4 streams. Even the most passionate trout fisherman may find the opportunity to catch a diversity of species too much to resist. Or the fly fisherman may want to try their luck casting a streamer to the elusive tiger muskie. A species that is rare and sought after in Ohio. The Experience It is easy to focus on the world-class trout fishing and the beautiful waters, but it is the cumulation of the experience as a whole that makes Briarwood Sporting Club the top trout fishing club. Just off the water is a comfortable place to relax after fly fishing at Loafing Lodge. With a kitchenette, bathroom and lounge area, as well as a porch that overlooks the stream, the Loafing Lodge does more than just recharge the trout fisherman. It gives that frame of mind to reflect on the day’s fishing or provide a place to rest before heading back out to catch more beautiful trout. The Best Trout & Fly Fishing Club in Ohio Briarwood Sporting Club is more than just the top fly fishing club in Ohio. It is a place where an angler can immerse themselves in the art and sport of fly fishing in a location that focuses on the experience

Fishing

Late Winter Fishing Opportunites in Ohio

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Ohio’s Best Late Winter Fishing Opportunities Mention winter fishing in Ohio and the first thought that pops into most angler’s head is ice fishing. Ohio, as a Midwest state, boasts some of the most brutal and long winters in the region. Couple that with many small ponds, lakes and a border on Lake Erie and it makes for some phenomenal ice fishing action. What many anglers discount, however, is that some of the best winter fishing opportunities in Ohio don’t necessarily involve ice fishing. As winter slowing morphs into spring, fish become increasingly primed for feeding. Countless schools of perch and bluegills as well as largemouth bass, trout, and muskies start to seek out forage. This puts you as the angler at an advantage. It also means late winter fishing in Ohio can be some of the best of the year. Before we get into the best winter fishing opportunities in the state, it is worth mentioning that one of the most important winter fishing tips is to review the regulations. Waterways during the winter months can have different regulations during this timeframe. Regulations such as creel limits and limits on fishing methods may change this time of year, and it is important to know what changes may affect where and how you are fishing. Be sure to refer to the current Ohio fishing regulations so you are prepared to take advantage of these opportunities. 5 Species That Offer the Best Winter Fishing Opportunities There are a number of species worth pursuing in Ohio during the late winter months. Each requires different winter fishing tactics, but all provide some epic late winter fishing opportunities in the state. Top Places to Fish in Winter in the Buckeye State Lake Erie may be the most well-known fishing destination in Ohio, yet there are plenty of other awesome places to fish in winter. Here are three places that offer great winter fishing opportunities in Ohio. East Harbor State Park East Harbor is a harbor off of Lake Erie between Port Clinton and Sandusky. Even though winds from Lake Erie can be cold and brutal, East Harbor is mostly protected. It offers excellent panfish opportunities such as yellow perch, bluegill, and crappie. The main draw to East Harbor State Park in the winter is for walleye. The harbor will be crowded when there is good ice with anglers fishing for walleye. In late winter, however, when the ice starts to melt off crowds diminish and tons of fish can be caught all around the harbor. Seneca Lake Seneca Lake is located east of Columbus and is one of the largest lakes in Ohio. This is the place to fish if you are looking for late winter bass fishing opportunities. It is not uncommon to catch 3, 4, and even 5-pound plus largemouth bass in Seneca Lake. The lake also has good numbers of panfish, catfish, and walleye. Indian Lake Indian Lake sits near the western edge of Ohio. The reservoir began originally as a water supply impoundment and has grown over the years as an exceptional fishery. It is near the top for winter bass fishing in Ohio and perhaps the best saugeye fishery in the state. Indian Lake consistently produces monster saugeye and better than average largemouth bass each year. The lake also holds good numbers of yellow perch and other panfish making it one of the best winter fishing trips you can take in Ohio. A Premier Winter Fishing in Ohio Destination If you are looking for more of an all in one and exclusive place to fish in winter, then Briarwood Sporting Club is your place. You can fish for different species in both lakes and streams all within a premier facility. Membership not only gets you all access to the club but it gives you the opportunity to fish one of the top places to fish in winter in Ohio. There are some great late winter fishing opportunities in Ohio. From yellow perch under the remaining ice to big largemouth bass and muskies, anglers have plenty of choices when it comes to winter fishing in Ohio. Expand your tactics and plan some trips to these top places to fish in the state to take advantage of the late winter bite.

Fishing

4 Ice Fishing Tips Useful for Catching Panfish & Perch in Ohio

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Ohio Ice Fishing Tips to Start the Season and Catch More Panfish & Perch Ohio has an assortment of ice fishing opportunities. Many anglers only think about Lake Erie when ice fishing in Ohio comes up. The “Lake” is certainly a proven winter destination for fishing, but there are many inland lakes and ponds that provide some great ice fishing action as well. The best days on the hardwater in Ohio are those targeting panfish with these four ice fishing tips. Ice Fishing in Ohio Ice fishing in Ohio is very much dependent on the weather. It is a state, unlike more well-known ice fishing states such as Minnesota and Wisconsin, that can have variable ice conditions from year to year. Lakes and ponds north of Columbus usually have cold enough winters for solid ice production and an extended ice fishing season. There are, however, some good ice fishing spots in the southern part of the state but ice conditions are less consistent and the season is usually much shorter. Species such as perch, bluegill, crappie, and walleye are several of the top fish species for anglers to target under the ice in Ohio. The best ice fishing in Ohio is arguably going after panfish and perch. Lakes and ponds in Ohio are set up well for good populations of perch and other panfish species. They thrive in Ohio waters and offer great angling opportunities in winter. Finding a spot to fish is not as easy as you may think. Not all frozen ponds are open to ice fishing. Unlike other states, ice fishing regulations vary from lake to lake. For example, some municipalities own reservoirs and do not allow ice fishing. One option to avoid headaches of finding a decent spot to ice fish is to join a private club like Briarwood Sporting Club. A club like Briarwood has over 70 acres of lakes open to ice fishing with healthy populations of giant perch, bluegills, crappies, trout and other species waiting to be caught from under the ice. Consider Ice Fishing Safety First Before getting into the four ice fishing tips for panfish and perch, every ice fishing trip should start and end with a discussion about safety. First and foremost, safe ice starts at 4-inches thick. This is enough ice to support an angler and basic ice fishing gear. However, 4-inches is the bare minimum. Every additional inch of ice is only that much safer to fish on. Here are several other important ice fishing tips related to safety. 4 Ice Fishing Tips for Catching Panfish & Perch in Ohio Anglers focus a lot on whether they should be using ice fishing jigs or ice fishing with live bait. This debate between artificial and live bait is never-ending. Regardless of your preference, these four ice fishing tips for panfish and perch are more important to take advantage of than bait choice. #1 – Ice Fishing Electronics Are Required Portable sonar is invaluable when ice fishing for panfish and perch. Sonar provides key pieces of information such as the water depth, bottom type and whether fish are present. Many times perch can be found feeding above soft bottoms and without sonar or flasher device, you will be guessing at each hole. Additionally, a handheld GPS can be beneficial. You can use this to mark hotspots or underwater structure so that you can fish those areas precisely on your next trip or come back to them during next year’s ice fishing season. Without electronics, much of your day will be lost to drilling holes and blindly searching for fish. #2 – Plan to Be Mobile and Be Willing to Move The one thing you can count on while ice fishing is that they will be constantly moving. Rarely will a school feed in one area for an extended period of time. One of the best ice fishing tips is to be willing to move around. Don’t spend hours on a spot that is not producing. Use your electronics at each hole and spend no more than 20 minutes in a location that is not producing. Even the best fishing destinations in Ohio are going to have good and bad areas. Weed out the bad ones and then move between the good areas following the fish. #3 – Run a Complete Spread By a complete spread, we mean utilizing both tip-ups and jigging rods. Once you find an area to fish, start by drilling 3-5 holes around a centrally located hole. Keep them within 15- to 20-yards of your primary hole. Set up your tip-ups on the outer holes and start jigging on the primary hole. What this does is allow you to fish efficiently over a fairly large location as schools of panfish and perch move in and out of your area. It also lets you vary depths and baits simultaneously to trigger more bites. #4 – Go Exclusively to Jigging When the Bite Slows Whether you prefer live bait or artificial, every angler should have at least a few jigs in their ice fishing gear. There will be days when even though you can find schools of fish, they simply will not bite. Days like this call for a jigging only approach. Focus on two holes and jig two rods. Small spoons work well, but more importantly, it is the technique that will trigger finicky fish to bite. Vary your method from trembling your lure if fish are suspended to slow lifts if fish are more towards the bottom. Once you find what is working, use that to your advantage and replicate that technique at each hole the rest of the day. Putting these four ice fishing tips to work this winter will greatly improve your ability to pull fish up through the ice. If you are having trouble finding a consistent place to ice fish in Ohio, consider Briarwood Sporting Club. Their sustainable and properly managed lakes provide endless ice fishing opportunities for panfish, perch and other species without the challenges associated with many public ice fishing spots in Ohio.

Fishing

The Best Fall Fishing Ohio Has to Offer

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Fall Fishing in Ohio at its Finest Whether you want to accept it or not, fall fishing in Ohio is here. The air has an all to recognizable fall chill and smells of changing leaves abound all across the state. The best way to deal with the inevitable fact that winter is quickly approaching from a fishing perspective is to realize that fall fishing opportunities can be pretty good. There are plenty of fall fishing options in Ohio. Steelhead are embarking on their yearly migration from Lake Erie into the tributaries, trout are becoming more active, and bass and panfish can be caught in predictable locations. The challenge is often finding places to fish, or more importantly, places to fish in the fall that provide different species to catch in one place. The Best Fall Fishing in Ohio Destination Many fall fishing opportunities exist in Ohio; however, few rival the opportunities that exist at the Briarwood Sporting Club. Briarwood is at the top of the Ohio fishing club list and one of the finest sporting clubs in the eastern United States The club is also one of Ohio’s best fall fishing destinations. Anglers can catch many different species in over a hundred acres of lakes and four different pristine streams. Membership at Briarwood Sporting Club gets you access to all these waters where you can catch anything from bass to trout. This centrally located club in Ohio is known for some of the best trout fishing in Ohio on the fly and generally all-around exceptional fall fishing opportunities. 3 Primary Fall Fishing Opportunities at Briarwood An angler has his or her choice between several species of trout, largemouth bass, panfish including crappie and perch, and even large game species such as walleye and muskie. However, there are three species in particular that make Briarwood one of the best fall fishing destinations. Here they are and how to catch them. Early Fall Bass Fishing Tips Bass are now transitioning from their summer patterns to fall areas. Their main focus during this transition is cover and food. Largemouth bass will begin to school together around remaining green lake vegetation to target baitfish. It is common to see bass boiling on the surface chasing baitfish near this vegetation during fall, which provides a great opportunity for topwater baits. Another good largemouth spot to fish is any type of structure. Brush piles, stumps, sunken logs, and rocks all hold bass during the fall. One of the more important early fall bass fishing tips is to completely exhaust a piece of structure. Again bass are starting to school together in the fall so if you catch one bass off a brush pile or log chances are there are a few more around. When you are fall fishing in Ohio for largemouth bass, these three lures rise to the top. Catching Fall Trout at Briarwood Sporting Club Trout, much like bass, are foraging more and more each day as the water chills. Fly fishing then, of course, begins to heat up again in the fall. Fall insect hatches begin in late August and continue at various levels through October. Although, the bulk of a trout’s diet this time of year is subsurface. Streamers and minnow imitations capitalize on this and are highly productive and consistent during fall months. Streamer fishing is better on overcast days and during the morning and evenings when larger trout are feeding intensely. The best fall fishing flies in the subsurface category are woolly buggers, sculpins and minnow variations in white and black. Fish these streamers fast through riffles and along bank edges. The faster the better since you are looking for quick reaction bites. Perhaps fly fishing is not your chosen method to catch trout. An ultra-light spinning rod matched with a small minnow jerkbait can be just as productive when fall trout fishing. Fish it through the same water you would rip a streamer to catch large feeding rainbows and browns. Autumn Panfish Tactics  Fall fishing in Ohio for panfish can be a relentless catch after catch. Crappies and perch are easy to catch in the fall. Both species can be located in large schools around offshore structure. Some of the best fall fishing occurs once these schools are found. Other panfish species such as sunfish can always be caught in good numbers near vegetation along the shore, however, they too will be moving towards deeper water as the days get shorter. Regardless of the species of panfish you are fishing for, the most productive fall fishing lure is a small jig tipped with either live bait or a soft plastic. Natural colors of soft plastics like tubes and curly tail grubs will produce when fish on a jig in schools of crappies and perch. Upsize your lures (over 2-inches) for getting more bites from bigger crappies and perch. Sunfish are more reactionary and lures in flashy colors work better than natural colors. Ready to put these fall fishing tactics to the test? There is no place better than at a top Ohio fishing club like Briarwood Sporting Club. Membership gets you access to high-quality lakes and streams that provide the best fall fishing in Ohio. The investment is not only for fishing experiences that are second to none, but it gets you amenities no other club has to offer. Start your fishing adventure today with the Briarwood Sporting Club.

Fishing

Fishing for Spawning Bass | Approaches That Work in Lakes

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Strategies for Fishing for Spawning Bass in Lakes Bass are beginning their most dynamic time of the year. Water temperatures are reaching that magic range between 55- and 65-degrees, which triggers the largemouth bass spawn. In lakes throughout the country, fishing for spawning bass is some of the best bass fishing of the year. This is especially true at the Briarwood Ohio fishing club, where you can catch the spawning action and catch world class bass. Focus First and Foremost on Shallow Water There is no secret that the best place to fish for spawning bass in lakes is in the shallows. Bass will be positioned in areas such as the backs of creeks, coves, gravel flats and sandy openings around shoreline vegetation. In these shallow areas of lakes, you can sight fish for spawning bass either from a boat or the bank. Approach carefully and maneuver cautiously in these shallow areas as you can and will spook bass right off the beds if you are careless. Another consideration when fishing for spawning bass are the regulations on your lake and the impact catching spawning bass may have. Definitely reeling in a large female from her bed will disrupt her spawning cycle. However, as long as that fish is returned after caught, she will return to her pre-catch spawning activities. Additionally, some lakes and even entire states have restrictions on specifically targeting spawning bass on beds. Not to worry, there are alternative places during the largemouth bass spawn to catch fish. Alternative Spots to Fish for Spawning Largemouth Bass in Lakes Most anglers believe that there is only one place to find bass during the spawning season, as described above. However, one of the greatest misunderstood largemouth bass spawning facts is that they can only be found in shallow flats during the spawn. Of course, the largemouth bass spawn will drive fish shallow but not all bass in an entire lake will be in that single spot. In fact, there are two other spots to target when fishing for spawning bass on lakes. The first place you can find fish during the spawn in transitional areas. Transitional areas are distinct and well-defined places on the lake where deeper water meets shallower water. Look for depth changes well over 10-feet in a short distance. Although most anglers will focus on shallow water during the bass spawning season, these transitional zones hold bass that are either not spawning yet or are using the area to feed. Fish these spots throughout the day as bass will often move to and from these transitional areas over the course of the day. The second place that holds fish during the largemouth bass spawning season are places with dense cover adjacent to open shallow water. Bass use these areas to feed aggressively just prior to spawning. Large sunken brush piles, large underwater boulder outcrops and dense submerged shorelines are all ideal places for fishing for spawning bass on lakes. It is also worth noting that these same areas are also productive spots for post-spawn bass fishing to catch bass moving out of spawning grounds and kicking it back into feeding mode. How to Catch Largemouth Bass When Spawning Catching spawning bass comes down to two basic strategies. Which one you use depends on which spots you are fishing for spawning bass. If you are targeting spawning bass on beds, these are the best bed fishing baits to throw. Sometimes the bed fishing activity is tough or perhaps you are fishing one of those alternative spots during the bass spawning season. In that case, the best spring bass lures would include these baits. Fishing for Spawning Bass When They Disappear Like most anglers, you are going to be sight fishing bass on beds, where legal, when fishing for spawning bass. There are many days in the spring where the weather and water will not cooperate with this bass fishing strategy. Cloudy, windy and rainy days can all impact how well you are able to sight fish for spawning largemouth bass. In addition, dirty and high water levels can make it difficult to target shallow bass effectively. For days like these during the largemouth bass spawn, you have to change your fishing strategies in order to be successful. Fish Spawning Grounds Anyways Even in dirty water or on cloudy days, bass are going to be on those shallow flats spawning so long as the bass are spawning. Rely on fishing reports, water temperatures, moon phase and time of year to be confident that bass are spawning in a particular area. If you are sure the bass spawning season is in full swing, then fish those spawning grounds regardless of conditions. Bass will be there and even though you can’t sight fish you can still blind cast flipping baits and craws through those areas. Start and Stop Lures for Bass on Beds A good strategy for fishing spawning areas blindly is to stop and start your presentations. On the initial cast, let that lure drop to the bottom and sit there. An aggressive male may pick it up at that point or more likely the fish you spooked off the beds takes a few moments to come back and then bites it. Start jigging and dragging whichever particular lure you are fishing with and stop it again. Do this start and stop for as long as your lure is in the spawning area. Fish Slow and Move Slow The type of lures for bass on beds mostly require a slow presentation. This is true but you also want to move slowly. Fishing shallow water and not being able to see the fish you are casting at puts you at a huge disadvantage. Frantic trolling motor action, fast movements, shadows and loud casts all alert bass, which make them harder to catch. Keep movement to a minimum, proceed slowly into spawning grounds and be stealthy on the bank. Fishing opportunities for catching largemouth bass are prolific in the spring. The opportunities may be plentiful but without sound strategies for fishing for spawning bass, the days can be tough. Concentrate your strategies on knowing where bass will be (and where they won’t), having the best lures for spawning largemouth bass, and options for when spawning bass disappear. Doing so puts you in the best possible position to fish the bass spawning season. Interested in fishing for spawning bass at Ohio’s best fishing club? Check out the fishing

Fishing

The Top 10 Fish Species to Target in Ohio

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Ohio Fish Species to Target This Spring and Summer With spring finally here, everyone is itching to spend time on the water! Besides breathing in the fresh spring air and enjoying the milder temperatures, the spring also provides some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. There is no better place to do this than in the resource rich state of Ohio.  Home to numerous streams, lakes, and world class fisheries, it’s no wonder so many people travel to the state for their fishing expeditions.  However, what they don’t know is the incredible opportunities that lie not only on the state’s public water, but with-in the state’s private property. This includes world-class fishing clubs such as Briarwood Sporting Club.      With over 125 acres of pristine waters stocked with the countries best fishing opportunities, every angler’s target species can be found in one place.  There are fly casting only waters, family friendly areas, and a sustainable fish population to make every anglers dream a reality.    Below is a list of ten exciting and unique species to target this spring in the great state of Ohio.  Trout Opportunities  One of the most exciting and sought after fishing opportunities in the state of Ohio is the trout fishing.  Species selection is abundant, opportunities are rare, and the novelty of the catch is high! Many people don’t expect Ohio to be an incredible trout fishery, but between cold water streams and the gorgeous fishing clubs such as Briarwood, it’s no surprise that it attracts fishermen across the country. 1. Steelhead Trout  Steelhead migrate up the streams to spawn in the spring and return to their homes for the remainder of the year.  This allows for an exciting but limited opportunity for anglers to capitalize on their presence. Steelhead can get relatively large in size, with many fish surpassing that 30” mark.   These fish can be found primarily on Lake Erie and its tributaries.  Most setups include long rods with light line.  Tackle includes spoons, larger jigs with maggots, and spinners for spinning rods.  Fly fishermen can find success with nymphs and streamers.   2. Rainbow Trout  The gorgeous rainbow trout is one of the most popular fish to target across the country.  Unfortunately, rainbow trout are NOT native to Ohio and instead are stocked every spring and fall in select waters.  Since they can only survive in Ohio’s coldest and smallest streams, these fish generally do not live throughout the summer and provide a limited fishing period immediately upon stocking.  These trout tend to be 10 to 14 inches in length and are a popular target for fly fishing enthusiasts.   It’s recommended to use lightweight spin-casting gear or a four to six weight fly rod.  For tackle use small spinners, spoons, and jigs.    3. Brown Trout  Brown trout, similar to Rainbow trout, are not native to the state. They too are stalked yearly, and only in a very few select waters.  However, these fish are expected to grow for a few seasons rather than dying off during the summer months. They are another novelty trout that Ohio enthusiasts get the honor to catch.   Brown trout are also stocked monthly in Briarwood in both its fly and spin casting streams.    Just like with fishing rainbows, brown trout can be caught off lightweight gear.  Similar presentations such as streamers and woolly buggers work well too.   4. Brook Trout  Brook trout make the list because they are the only species of trout native to Ohio, and they are native in very limited numbers.  Because they need to spawn in very clear and cold water, they are exclusive to the state’s smallest, spring fed streams, very similar to the rainbows and brown trout.  These fish can also be caught on lightweight spinning or fly gear in a similar manner as the two species above.   5. Blue Trout  Due to their rarity, blue trout are one of the most highly sought after fish species in the country.  They are a rare version of the rainbow trout and unique only to select waters. This can be a catch of a lifetime for many trout enthusiasts.   Unique Trout Fishing Opportunities  Blue trout is a great example of the fishing opportunities that are unique to Ohio’s Briarwood sporting clubs.  However, all trout fishing opportunities improve significantly within Briarwood Sporting Club itself. Briarwood stocks their pristine streams monthly, assuring high quality, indefinite fishing opportunities for the trout fishing diehards. Anglers that are interested in chasing these species should contact Briarwood Sporting Club regarding membership options and angling tactics.  For those who prefer to fish with a fly rod, a fly only zone exists on the eastern end of the property.  This assures fly fishermen the tranquility and opportunity that isn’t always presented to them when fishing high pressured, public waters. Popular Game Fish  6. Walleye  The walleye is one of the most sought after fish species in Ohio.  From the famous Lake Erie to the small, freshwater streams located throughout the state, walleye opportunities in Ohio are endless.  They are not only a popular fish to pursue but a great one to eat as well.  Spring is a fantastic time to capitalize on their post spawning hunger so be sure to utilize that time to get out on the water.  Walleye fishing can mean a finesse bite. Therefore, jigs, minnow or twisty tails are great options when targeting the species. A medium action rod with fairly light line can help pick up a weak jig bite.   7. Perch  A cousin to the walleye, Perch area also abundant in Ohio waters. Lake Erie is one of the most popular perch destinations in the country. These fish are another favorite species of the residents, and can be found in numerous waters throughout the state of Ohio.   Perch will require a similar presentation as a walleye but with lighter spin-casting gear.  Anglers should use a light action rod with 6 to 8 pound test line.   8. Largemouth Bass  Bass is the most popular game fish in the world.  Located in waters from Canada to Mexico, it’s no surprise that it, too, plays a big presence in the state of Ohio as well. Largemouth opportunities are plentiful across the state, including in some of the state’s biggest bodies of water.  However, unlimited opportunities also reside in the sporting clubs themselves.   9. Bluegill   For angler’s looking for oversized pan fish, Ohio is a perfect option. The bluegill sunfish is abundant and can found up to twelve inches in length and two pounds in size (which is incredibly large for a sunfish).  They are frequent and

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