The fish in this photo are bluegill.  The bluegill is a native fish that seldom grows to more than 12 inches long.  Although small compared to channel catfish or largemouth bass, the bluegill is a favorite target for many anglers.  The meat is firm and of good taste.

I caught these fish on small earthworms while fishing a farm pond for a few hours on Easter Sunday.  During spring when the air temperature reaches 70 degrees or higher bluegill will be active.  These were popping small insects off the surface of the water.  My gear included a light rod and reel strung with 4 pound test line and a small bobber that was 3/4 of an inch across attached 10 inches from a small hook that was also 3/4 of an inch long.

The fish were visible in open water about 35 yards from the bank.  I fished from the bank, casting into the area where the fish were feeding.  In short time I caught 14 bluegills on 25 bites.  This is typical success when fishing for bluegill.  Often they will yank the bobber under only to come off a second later.

Always obtain owner permission before fishing his/her pond.  It is a good idea to offer the pond's owner a portion of your catch, either in live fish as you are leaving or as frozen fillets a few days later.  Be respectful and leave nothing behind when you are done fishing.  You may not be welcome back if you leave empty bait containers, cigarette butts or other trash in your wake.

Generally a bluegill that is more than 8 inches long is considered a "keeper."  Those shown here are between 8 and 10 inches long.

Through the Woods is a weekly nature photo colmn by Aaron Horrell. Find this column at semissourian.com to order a reprint of the photo. Find more work by Aaron at The Painted Wren Gallery.