iSportsman Staff

For many anglers, the journey into fishing began with a bobber, a little rod, and a tub of worms. Bluegill and sunfish were the first catches, sparking a lifelong passion for the sport. As summer rolls in, those looking for a rewarding day on the water should turn their attention to one of the best panfish out there — the redear sunfish, also known as shellcrackers. 

Summer Shellcrackers 

As highlighted by VA-Outdoors.com, shellcrackers are a fast-growing panfish species that can reach sizes of one to two pounds. Unlike their bluegill relatives, shellcrackers have a specialized diet that consists mainly of small snails and mollusks, which they crush using adaptive plates in their mouths — hence the nickname. 

Targeting these hard-fighting panfish requires a slightly different approach than traditional bluegill fishing. Instead of fishing near the surface, anglers should focus on the bottom, where shellcrackers forage. A modified drop shot rig — like those used for bass fishing — is ideal. Using light weights (1/8 to 1/4 ounce) and a small drop hook positioned close to the bottom allows for a natural bait presentation. 

SUBSCRIBE TO THE iSPORTSMANUSA NEWSLETTER FOR MORE STORIES LIKE THIS

The Right Approach 

Natural baits such as red wigglers, earthworm segments, and grubs are excellent choices for enticing shellcrackers. However, artificial baits like tube jigs, marabou jigs, and Berkley Gulp Alive baits can also be highly effective when worked with subtle movements to mimic natural prey. 

Shellcrackers spawn in the spring and then move to deeper waters near grassy areas or submerged structures like stumps. These fish prefer clean water, and some of the best spots in Virginia to target them include Lake Cohoon, Lake Meade, Chickahominy Lake, and the Nottoway River. 

With the right approach, a trip for summer shellcrackers can provide an action-packed day and a delicious reward at the end. So, grab your gear, hit the water, and enjoy one of the most exciting panfish experiences this season. 

Read the full story on VA-Outdoors.com 

Read more about summer shellcrackers on iSportsmanUSA.