Fishing

Fishing

How to Fish for Spawning Bass in Lakes

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. These are best bed fishing baits to throw. Best spring bass lures 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 membership options at Briarwood Sporting Club.

Fishing

Top 10 Fish Species to Target in Ohio

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.  5 Trout Species in Ohio 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. 5 Popular Game Fish in Ohio 1. 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.   2. 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.   3. 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.   4. 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). 

Fishing

The Experience of Hunting at Briarwood Sporting Club

Are you looking for a trophy whitetail hunt of a lifetime? Any whitetail outfitter’s website will tell you they offer the biggest deer in the state or even the world! That is not surprising…but are they missing their mark? Is that really what you are looking for? Whether you are chasing that buck of a lifetime alone, hunting with a group of lifelong friends, or looking for that elite level corporate hunting trip, the experience is the thing that you are looking for. Sure 200”+ whitetails are the target, but the experience of the hunting trip is what actually makes the memories. While offering the biggest deer in the world is common, offering the best trophy whitetail hunting experience is not. At Briarwood Sporting Club, we not only have the largest whitetails but hands down the best first-class hunting experience amongst whitetail outfitters. Understanding the Price of a Trophy Deer Hunt When it comes to shopping for a trophy deer hunt, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. While the prices can vary from outfitter to outfitter, the difference will often be noted not in the quality of deer, but the experience of the hunt. This is why Briarwood Sporting Club brings added value that no other outfitter can fulfill. What is this added value? While the experience, setting, amenities, and accommodations might be hard to sum up with words and pictures, the experience itself will be realized after just a few short hours in Briarwood’s estate. Hunters experiencing the first-class hunting and service understand what set’s Briarwood above other outfitters. This is evident when most hunters become repeat hunters, booking the next hunt within the first year after leaving the estate with trophy in tow! Know that the experience alone will pay for the trip, and you will leave overly satisfied and excited for your next trip at Briarwood! First-Class from the Beginning If you are searching for trophy whitetail outfitters, then you are looking for a top-notch experience right out of the gate. We know you are searching for the best habitat and properties hunting has to offer, the biggest deer, the most luxurious transportation, the most personable whitetail guides, exquisite food, and modern yet rustic lodging accommodations.   Briarwood Sporting Club satisfies these needs and goes beyond expectations in every aspect of the hunt, including pick up and drop off service. The trip to Briarwood is absent of long drives to the airport, checking in, security lines, wondering if your gun will arrive with you, and paying for drinks. Your hunt starts when you climb aboard a corporate jet piloted by none other than the owner of Briarwood, Chris Daniels. He will provide your private transportation that sets the tone for your entire three-day luxury hunt. When you are ready to head home, Chris can have you on your way within an hour!     The hunt and interactions with your guide will be one-on-one, the accommodations of Briarwood are finely honed for your pleasure, relaxation, and experience of adventure.     After the journey, you arrive at Briarwood. Once there, you immediately become immersed in a natural and pristine habitat. You will notice secluded nooks of food plots and wildlife openings, mature hardwoods, wilderness meadows, lakes, streams, and of course private rustic lodges.     The feeling of wilderness will continue as you arrive at your lodging accommodation. Pine Lake Lodge sits tucked away in opines overlooking a private lake. The lodge offers all the comforts of home with the addition of a rustic feeling of adventure and wilderness hunting.     After settling in, you will be treated to a quiet evening around a fire. The lodge provides a quiet and relaxing outside fire pit as well as a fireplace inside the lodge.     Just when you start to feel hungry the Briarwood staff will bring out expertly crafted food. The laughter and comradeship over the crackling wood will quickly fade into the night as you prepare for the first day of hunting.     Your first impressions of Briarwood will quickly be confirmed as you head out on your first day of hunting. While heading towards your stand or blind with your guide, you will quickly notice the scenery while traversing across a spectacular environment. As the hunt continues the realm and presence of trophy whitetails in the ideal setting for the hunt of a lifetime will be realized.     For the second day of hunting, you quickly explore options for other stand locations, or ponder the idea of a spot and stalk hunt for a face-to-face encounter with a giant whitetail!     As you hunt climaxes in an unbelievable adrenaline filled moment with a 200”+ whitetail, you will be surprised at the detailed end of hunt standards your guide will take care of. In addition to the after hunt pictures, ramblings, and gloating, you will enjoy continued first-class service.     If you need a break from hunting, or wish to enjoy the other opportunities of Briarwood, hunters are given access to world-class fishing and bird hunting. The opportunities complement your experience of Briarwood well, giving access to the full scope of what Briarwood offers.     Briarwood Sporting Club takes pride in successful hunts, happy hunters, and remarks on an experience that exceeds expectations. Again, owner Chris Daniels complete your trip home on a corporate jet, ensuring you and your trophy arrive home safely. Don’t be surprised to hear back from guides and staff as the service continues after the hunt to ensure your memory stays with you for years to come.   Briarwood not only offers to you trophy whitetail hunts, but more so a total experience that will shock even the most experienced sportsmen. The experience will leave you satisfied, and excited to book your next hunt! The invitation is always present to book a hunt with Briarwood or become a fishing club member to enjoy the scenery, lakes, and streams.   For more information on trophy whitetail outfitting, or private fishing club membership, click

Fishing

The Ultimate Trout Fishing Destination In Ohio

Ohio is a fantastic destination for trout fishing enthusiasts.  It’s filled with beautiful scenery and incredible fishing opportunities.  However, gaining access to the state’s resources can be a challenge for its residents and non-residents alike. Public land access is limited and places that do allow fishing can be run down, polluted, and unmanaged. It can be a defeating issue for sportsmen who simply want to enjoy their outdoor passions and can’t (or want) to attain land of their own.  So what are the best opportunities for trout fishing in Ohio? We have one ultimate destination in mind! The Benefit of a Fishing Community In the beautiful state of Ohio, residents and non-residents have a popular option when looking for trout fishing opportunities: join a trout fishing community.  These communities are termed “clubs” and offer access to some of Ohio’s greatest resources. These resources can include world-class trout fishing opportunities.  These properties are well managed, appreciated by their members, and highly productive. This simply means you can guarantee to catch fish and to enjoy your time.   However, benefits of these clubs don’t stop there. Not only do these clubs give their members a chance to experience a majestic piece of property, they also provide lodging, hospitality, and the chance to land that fish of the lifetime.  It’s every trout fishing anglers dream.   The only catch? You have to invest in the right one. Briarwood Trout Fishing Club There isn’t a better place in the eastern half of the country to enjoy Mother Nature’s finest trout fishing than our very own Briarwood Sporting Club. We are considered the largest trout fishing resort east of the Mississippi, comprising 125 acres of pristine waters and breathtaking scenery. Each body of water is both stocked and regulated for a sustainable, world–class fishery. Members are invested in the land, practicing the highest levels of conservation, and visitors have access to large variety of game fish. Check Out The Property Map Here! However, fishing isn’t the only benefit of joining our Briarwood community. Our accommodations are comfortable, generous, and filled with all of your modern amenities. It’s an all-in-one destination for every outdoorsman.  With such a high level of respect for the property, we provide an incredible experience for every angler and their family. Below, we walk you through why Briarwood is the top trout fishing destination in Ohio. A Convenient Getaway  Simply put, Briarwood is convenient. We are centrally located within the state of Ohio and within an hour of two major cities: Columbus and Dayton.  Our location is a convenient getaway for residents of neighboring cities, or those looking for a farther adventure but want to be in the proximity of restaurants and shopping. Many residents appreciate this convenience because it allows them to enjoy nature at its finest without investing in expensive travel costs or tedious planning.  There is also no maintenance or upkeep that would normally be found when owning a vacation property. Lodging is provided and rooms are fully furnished.   When members come to visit, they only need to grab their essentials and not worry about anything else. Being a member means visitors are able to enjoy their dream property without any hassle or excessive expense.  Anglers can simply grab their rod and spend their free time catching fish. The Finest Fishing  We are well known for our high–quality fishing. We stock a variety of fish regularly, including a large variation of fish species not found in many other clubs. We also offer visitors a chance at some of the country’s most popular game fish.  These species include: Bluegill  Walleye  Perch  Tiger Muskie  Numerous species of bass  Catfish With sixteen lakes and numerous streams, we are the perfect place to catch the trophy of a lifetime.  Five species of trout are present including:  Rainbow  Brook  Brown  Golden  Blue As with any other trout fishing opportunity, each piece of water comes with its own set of challenges, keeping every angler on the tips of their toes.   For the young and novice, there are even family-friendly fishing areas where members can use spin and casting rods. There are accommodations on site to benefit every fisherman of every level.    Our outdoor opportunities don’t stop there.   We also offer trophy whitetail hunting.  The property is home to trophy class whitetail deer, with many in excess of 200”.  Guided hunts are available, giving sportsman not only the chance to catch a fish of their dreams, but also that buck of a lifetime.   This is why we are the “all-inclusive” getaway for sportsmen across the country. Other Accommodations Members have full access to our beautiful accommodations. We have four gorgeous lodges to choose from.  Each of these lodges are secluded and pristine, allowing guests to have a relaxing and breathtaking getaway. Three of the four lodges have private fishing ponds, available only to those who are staying on site.   As for amenities, you can also expect satellite tv, kitchenettes, wooden decks, and grilling stations. A few lodges even come with a scenic fire pit and boats for use.   Our accommodations are perfect for getting together with friends, family, or coworkers.   Link- https://briarwoodclub.com/request-membership-packet/ Invest in Your Passion Joining the right trout club is an excellent investment. It offers you the chance to enjoy your own piece of nature without the excessive expense and risk involved in owning your own property. Most importantly, it gives you the chance to experience incredible fishing at your convenience.  Becoming a member of any club is an investment.  That’s why you want a place that offers the highest quality fishing in the most productive environment possible.  This means finding the best fishing opportunities, a clean and protected environment, and a place you can share with friends and family. That’s why you can’t find a better Ohio trout fishing club than Briarwood. With our large array of opportunity, incredible reviews, and state of the art amenities, it’s no wonder Briarwood is considered the top trout fishing destination in Ohio.  To join Briarwood, you will need to pay an initiation fee, as well as a yearly renewal fee. As a member, you gain access to Briarwood’s waters and facilities year round.   Be sure to grab your own piece of outdoor paradise by visiting briarwoodsportingclub.com.   

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