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Limb Line Tactic (Video Included)

Wade's World Fishing: A limb line is one of the simplest, most effective ways to fish for crappie, catfish, bluegill, and bass. It is what its name implies. An angler ties a line to a springy limb (not a dead, brittle one!) that overhangs the water.

One special note: before setting limb lines, check local fishing regulations to see if there are any restrictions on using limb lines. Following are tips for fishing limb lines.

  • Look for spots where limbs or bushes overhang water that is at least 3 feet deep. These may be along the bank or on trees/bushes growing in the water.
  • Tie lines to limbs and adjust length so they extend into the water a couple of feet.
  • Rig and bait several limb lines at once. Bait with minnows, worms, crickets.
  • Set limb lines in different areas to see where fish are biting best.
  • Set the lines in late afternoon and then run before bedtime and again at sunrise. Re-bait as necessary.
  • Take a stout landing net when you run lines for landing big fish.
  • Remove limb lines when you’re through fishing.