Grasshoppers and Crickets

During the course of a season, any fish that will feed near the surface probably eats a few hapless crickets or grasshoppers that either inadvertently hop out onto the water's surface or get washed in by the rain. Use a lightweight spinning outfit to cast one of these insects onto the water near submerged vegetation, lily pads or fallen tree branches. Lightly hooked, the bug will swim around looking for a way out. You can also effectively fish a 'hopper or cricket under a bobber with a split shot for panfish. Small bluegill and perch will pick them apart without getting hooked but bigger fish will suck them in without hesitation. Keep this bait alive in a container with a top and plenty of air holes. Drop in fresh green grass, lettuce and other leaves along with a few drops of water every day. They should last a few days if kept out of the sun. Catch grasshoppers with a butterfly net and crickets by putting a piece of wet cardboard on your lawn overnight.