In early spring, when bluegills are feeding on nymphs, they are usually found in water that's fairly deep. They aren't up on the banks yet and often suspend on a drop-off, just off the shore.

Redbreast sunfish share a lot of characteristics with bluegills, and even have a blue gill flap. But that flap is longer than on a bluegill.

The water has warmed up, weeds fill the shallows, and not a big bluegill in sight. Small bluegills gather at the tip of the dock, but the big ones are almost nonexistent.

A preview of fishing at LaSalle Lake comes before the cooling lake reopens Saturday, plus lots of wild things as befits spring and the record Illinois bobcat harvest.

It’s a topic that is still in its infancy and years away from a potential resolution, but the prospect of a bag limit for bluegills on Otter Lake drew plenty ...