Rise and shine. This is Early Bird Fishing. Prepare for world class fishing instruction, stories, and news, in less than 5 minutes.

Here’s what we got for you today:

A panfish crash course that you won’t want to miss 🐟
Why you need Crappie Magnets in your tacklebox 📦
What happens when the Seattle Kraken mascot goes to Alaska 🐻

Simple Wins with Panfish

Panfish are everywhere, and that’s a good thing. Bluegill, crappie, and perch are accessible, fun on light tackle, and make for a productive day whether you're filling a cooler or just looking to stay sharp.

Here are a few ways to make the most of your next panfish outing:

Use Light Line and Small Hooks
Stick with 2-4 lb test and a size 6-10 hook. Panfish are more likely to bite when your gear doesn’t stand out. A small jig or a split shot with live bait is all you need.

Keep Bait Simple
Worms, crickets, waxworms, and small soft plastics all catch fish. If you're throwing artificials, stick to natural colors: black, olive, or brown. And don't overlook a 1/64 or 1/32 oz jig when fish are finicky.

Target Structure
Panfish hold tight to cover like submerged wood, weed edges, docks, or drop-offs. Cast close, and if you’re not getting bites after a few minutes, move. They're either there or they’re not.

Watch for Light Strikes
Panfish won’t always slam your bait. Use a slim bobber or just watch your line. Any twitch, sideways movement, or hesitation might be a bite.

Pro Tips

Don’t overwork your bait. A still worm or soft plastic under a float often outfishes one that’s constantly moving.
In clear water, stay back. Panfish can be skittish—approach quietly and make longer casts when visibility is high.
Use a long rod. A 7-9 foot ultralight gives you better reach and more control around tight cover.
Crappie Magnets just work. When fish get picky, Crappie Magnets consistently get bites. We don’t leave home without them.

When the bite’s slow elsewhere, panfish deliver. Simple gear, steady action, and a reminder that fishing doesn’t have to be complicated to be rewarding.

🎣 IN THE FIELD

The Seattle Kraken’s fishing trip in Alaska took a wild turn when a grizzly bear charged their blue-haired sea troll mascot, Buoy, mid-video shoot. No one was hurt, but let’s just say Buoy might stick to trolling for salmon, not bears.
Fishing rules on the Columbia River are being strictly enforced, with state troopers citing anglers for using barbed hooks, keeping too many fish, and other violations. If you're heading out for salmon, double-check the regs, because “I didn’t know” won’t get you off the hook.
In case you weren’t a believer in Crappie Magnets, this guy will have you sold: