While fishing brushpiles recently we found the fish would hit a few times and then refuse our baits, jigs and minnows, even though we could see them still there on the livescope.

I remembered a trick I used successfully in the docks before. I tied a 1/32 oz. jig head with a very small hook (#8) , added a small piece of a minnow (about 1/4) and let the bait slowly fall down into the BP. Using the livescope I could stop the bait right on the fish. Out fished my partner 8 to 1 on the first pile I tried it on. Lost several big fish on the tiny hook so I switched to #6 hook and did better. Cut bait would also work well this way, just be sure to use a very small piece. Bait just looks like it's drifting by and they have to try it. Bites are very light and usually seen, bait simply stops dropping or moves sideways. You could also use a small hook with a split shot above it about 8".

Bonehead Tackle makes a 1/32 oz jighead with a good hook in it if you want the light weight with a full size hook. It works great when shooting docks...might work in your application as well.

Earnest, do you think crappie nibbles might work?

I pour my own so I can use any size hook I want to. I started with the #8 today because it rarely hangs up and pulls out when you do get it hung. Actually a couple of nibbles on the small bare jig will also work it times.

Also I rarely keep fish and if some get away I don't really care. I could use my net and land most of them.

I will definitely be adding to my Bag of Tricks! Good Information Ernest Thanks!

Has anyone you know ever used a chum block like they use in saltwater over a crappie brush pile ?

MO

Only if you want to bring the catfish and bluegill in

In my opinion adding bait blocks in any form is a waste of money and will bring in more bad fish than good ones. I know some people swear by that method but this is my experience. Whatever gives you confidence is best for you.

I usually just move to the next hole and find active fish.......I never have bait or minnas on my boat but do use a few different scents......
Cool technique to squeeze a few more fish out of a hole if you pack bait in your boat though.....

Maybe I was not clear. I am thinking of having the chum bag hanging only while I am fishing , not leaving it out
indefinitely. I have seen the effect a chum bag has over a wreck in salt water , It wakes up the whole wreck.
I will try it , If it works great , you will never hear about it.

MO

Quite interesting concept. I'm going to give it a try. Cut bait...

yes