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Don’t overlook goldenrod larvae as a go-to natural bait for panfish

In a rush to grab hold of the latest in artificial baits and lures, anglers might be passing up a perfectly good natural bait that’s lodged in a plant out their back doors. Goldenrod, prominent in some locations, grows wild and contains within its pod a gall that will catch bluegills now, just as it did in the “old days,” when use as fish bait was much more common. (Contributed photo)

Like many ice fishermen, I started preparation for the hard-water season several weeks ago. I checked out the portable fish house, but no mice had been at work. My auger started when called upon, and the other accessories, including rods and reels, were in wording order.
While tying on some panfish jigs, I began to think about bait. I’ve successfully tried plastics, which work great in some situations. However, I still lean toward live bait. I hadn’t heard lately about goldenrod larvae being used. Growing up, that was our go-to winter bait.

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