Bluegill Instructions

BG57 S/M / BG70 S/M (shallow/medium dive)

The following information and instructions are provided to offer anglers an understanding of how to effectively use the lure as a tool, enhance performance and increase levels of success.

Lure vs. TARGET

The LIVETARGET Bluegill is much more than a typical lure; it is a ‘target’. Predatory gamefish hunt with a plan. They ambush and force Panfish from the security of cover and expose them to the dangers of the open water. When the prey presents itself and becomes isolated, it is no longer a baitfish, it becomes a TARGET.

Introduction

  • Koppers Fishing has created a ‘Panfish style’ flat-sided crankbait with an accurate profile and the anatomical details of a ‘young of the year’ Bluegill.

fig1

  • The LIVETARGET Bluegill is designed to simulate a fleeing Panfish with the same moderate ‘wiggle’ swimming action, pulse and vibration as found in nature.

Location

  • Young Bluegill live in most bodies of water (lakes, rivers, reservoirs and ponds) and hide in and around cover such as weed beds, grass, vegetation stock, boulders, gravel flats, etc. They prefer shallows with quick access to deeper water for escape; ledges and drop offs are key.

Instructions

When using the LIVETARGET Bluegill, anglers must consider depth, speed and deflection;

  1. Fasten the TARGET directly to the main fishing line or leader material using a ‘clinch’ or ‘loop’ knot. Do NOT use a terminal snap, as this may impede the swimming action.
  2. Cast or troll the TARGET in and around heavy cover.
  3. The casting travel path is as follows:

    fig2
  4. Retrieve the TARGET with varying speeds. It performs exceptionally well at slow speeds; slow enough to activate a steady wiggle.
  5. An effective strategy is to softly deflect the target off objects such as rocks, stumps or grass tips.

    fig3
  6. The objective is to cast the TARGET with the intention to ‘bump’ it or 'bang’ it off structure; adding pauses and twitches when the point of contact occurs.
    fig4

    Example: A ‘tic’ the top of the Hydrilla B ‘bump’ the tree stump and C ‘clank’ bottom repeatedly
  7. Present the TARGET parallel to contours and structure.
  8. During the retrieve, game fish may follow the TARGET in a ‘trans-like’ state.

To trigger strikes, try the following:

  • Increase/decrease speed;
  • Change TARGET direction;
  • Add occasional pauses (1-3 seconds); Anglers are encouraged to experiment with each of these situations to determine which variable will trigger a strike. In doing so, a ‘pattern’ of speed, depth and deflection will develop. Once the pattern is determined, it can be used successfully in similar conditions and locations.

Tip: If the TARGET begins to hang up (snag), during the retrieve, plunge the rod tip forward to give slack and allow it to float up and slightly backward; then continue cranking.

The TARGET must travel on a straight path to maximize performance. Ensure the TARGET is accurately tuned at all times, especially after the stresses of heavy deflection and fighting large gamefish. To see a complete line of TARGETS and to obtain additional information, instructions, tips and techniques, please visit www.livetargetlures.com. Thank you.