How can I get the little guys to GO AWAY!!!

[Jacob Hill]

Alright I'm in a somewhat unique situation over here in the midwest but I hope there's a solution. My favorite bass (yes tony i said it) lake is filled with bluegill from tiny to very big. It is gin clear and I can see down to the beds. There is one problem... the big guys hang out with the little ones. These elusive 8-10" gills are not huge but definitely worth catching. Every time I throw anything that looks relatively edible in, the 4-7 inchers eat it like they haven't seen a meal in years. Is there any possible way to get the lure past the little fellas without throwing something outrageously heavy?

[Vince Fusco]

If the bigger ones are deeper and the smaller ones are getting it on the fall, could you use a 1/16 or a 1/8oz. plastic worm sinker to get your bait to the bottom faster?

[Dick Kahle]

We have a similar situation here in da UP of Mi.  Try flies and increase hook size until you find one that the little guys can't get in their mouths, but big enough to interest the big boys.  A silver mylar minnow in #8 is a good starting point. Dick Kahle

[Jacob Hill]

Thanks Dick I'll break out the 3 wt next time I'm out there.

[Lee]

 Thats what I would do! 3-4wt flyrod, floating line, 8-9' flourocarbon leader with #6 or so streamer or wooly bugger ( I tie a olive wooly bugger with some flash and a few rubber legs, Drives them wild in clear water ) Be forwarned Bass will be interested too.....BiG FuN :)