Aroostook County Fishing Report: July 24, 2007

As we enter the dog days of August and, hopefully, some drier and warmer weather, we might suggest giving the coldwater fish a break and consider spending a few days fishing for pickerel at Drew’s Lake in the southern Aroostook town of Linneus. A public boat launch at the outlet allows easy access for boats of all sizes.

The best pickerel fishing would probably be found at the very west end of the lake and in some of the shallow coves on the north shore. We would recommend casting around the emergent vegetation and pond lilies that give these fish cover as they sit and wait for unsuspecting prey. Red and white spoons with large treble hooks are very successful at attracting pickerel to strike. It might be advisable to keep checking the line ahead of the lure after catching several pickerel to check for worn line. A short steel leader attached between the lure and monofilament line would eliminate this problem and not infringe tremendously on the action of the lure. Because these fish have numerous sharp teeth anglers should be very careful in removing the hooks from the mouth. That is the reason for suggesting using large treble hooks on whatever lure is used. A pair of needle-nose pliers would also be a welcomed addition to the tackle box when fishing for pickerel. Should several larger fish be kept in the creel, they make an excellent fish chowder, however, removing the numerous bones is the test of patience required to prepare this table fare.