While Texas is perhaps best known for its bass fishing, bluegill fishing in the Lone Star state is also a popular pastime. The bluegill--Lepomis macrochirus--is one of the most common varieties of freshwater sunfish and is relatively easy to catch due to its aggressive, competitive nature. As the Texas Parks and Wildlife notes, while smaller than other types of game fish, bluegills can still reach nearly two pounds in weight and can give you a good battle.
Location
Bluegill populations exist in the majority of lakes, rivers and ponds in Texas. However, one of the most renowned spots is Purtis Creek, which is in the northeast portion of the state about 50 miles outside of Dallas. According to Dallas Outdoors, the creek boasts the largest bluegill that an angler has ever pulled out of a freshwater body in Texas. The fish was 11 inches long, and weighed 1.81 pounds.
Regulations
To fish in Texas, you need a valid fishing license. The only exceptions occur on Texas' annual Free Fishing Day, which falls on the first Saturday of June each year, and if you are fishing in a state park, as Texas Parks and Wildlife notes. When it comes to reeling in bluegills specifically, there are no statewide bag limits and minimum length requirements, meaning you can keep as many bluegills as you want, regardless of their size. However, some individual freshwater bodies, such as Purtis Creek, have their own specific bluegill guidelines.
Lure Selection
According to Game and Fish Magazine, the most popular lures for bluegill fishing in Texas are crankbaits. These baits typically consist of plastic or wood bodies, which manufacturers design to resemble prey. The bodies have two or more hooks hanging off them, and their "heads" have metal or plastic tabs projecting out in front of them. These tabs help crankbaits dive and break through the water as anglers reel them in. As the above source notes, the best crankbaits for landing bluegills in Texas are those that resemble crawdads or freshwater crayfish.
Using Live Bait
Although some Texan anglers may consider freshwater fishing with live bait cheating, it is an incredibly effective method for catching bluegills and can make for a good change of pace if fishing with lures is not producing results. Stick with organisms that the bluegills prey on naturally, such as insects, insect larvae, worms, small crustaceans like snails and minnows.
Strategy
Game and Fish Magazine recommends that you focus your bluegill fishing efforts along the banks and bends of freshwater bodies, particularly in areas with piles of brush or other debris. Another good strategy is to cast your bait, or lure, into holes, or isolated sections of deep water.
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