August

Early August is when most lake water temperatures peak, so you want to be mindful of creeks and inlets that are pouring cooler, more oxygenated currents into the lake, especially if the bottom drops at that spot. Also understand that in most lakes, baitfish (and the bass that follow them) like to school on structures below the thermocline (where water temperatures transition from warm to cool). For water 15 feet deep or more, try a drop-shot rig, where you have a heavy weight at the end of your line, and suspend a smaller-sized soft plastic worm on a hook above that. You want to use eight-pound to 12-pound test line and a medium- or light-action spinning rod in this situation, because finesse and feel are important.

Tip courtesy of  Anglers’ Legacy

The Winnebago County chapter of Pheasants Forever (PFWCIL) will host their annual Youth Shoot at Plug and Pellet Sportsmans’ Club on August 1 and 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day.

Youth ages 10 to 17 can participate in target practice, trap shooting, and gun safety instruction.  Plug and Pellet and PFWCIL will provide all guns, ammunition, and safety equipment, but participants are welcome to bring their own.   Admission for children and parents is free, and each child participant will receive a free lunch.  Women and first-time shooters of all ages are encouraged to attend and shoot, free of charge.

Every child who participates will also receive a free membership to the Ringnecks Club, the Pheasants Forever organization for children under 18.  Members of PFWCIL will be on hand to provide instruction and information about the chapter.

Plug and Pellet Sportsmans’ Club is located on Centerville Road between Tipple and Simpson roads in Rockford, Illinois.  Free parking and shelter is on site.