Fighting the elements could pay off

No disrespect to any of you dear readers, but if you would care to participate in a micro-quiz, I would appreciate the effort.

Now if you fall into the following category, please raise your hand to acknowledge my questions.

• Are you one of those fair-weather fishermen who choose not to battle the elements long before the lakes go into their "hard water" stage?

I seem to notice quite few hands raised.

• Are you an angler who understands some of the best catches of the year can be had when the wind blows like a super-fast express train?

• Are you the type who dresses in heavy clothing and are not afraid of tipping the boat and falling into the frigid water?

• And are you the type of skeptic who turns his nose up at ice fishing?

All right, drop your hands and please read on.

I have had numerous arguments with acquaintances as to which fish species has the most flavor, be it in a frying pan or under the broiler.

The more serious in our ranks would choose bluegills on the table hands down. Even the die-hard walleye devotee will reluctantly admit the mighty bluegill not only provides a tremendous battle on ultralight gear but also provides our tastebuds with memorable meals.

And to those kind souls living on and around Bangs Lake in Wauconda, please excuse my brashness when I tell about the fabulous bluegill fishing available now on your lake.

Aside from the massive schools of big 'gills showing up on Lake Geneva, Bangs Lake seems to be holding its own for big bluegills and largemouth bass.

Picture where the boat docks normally sit in front of Wauconda Boat. There is a massive weed line just north of the dock area in about 8 feet of water. You can readily find schools of bluegills and scattered bass feeding on minnows.

If you are still running your boat, try motoring across the lake (if you launch at Wauconda Boat) to the "square channel" and fish the weed edges. This is another spot where bait fish congregate and where that happens you'll also find bluegills and game fish as well.

Because we've entertained decent fall weather local fishing conditions have yet to ready itself to the point of super cold water.

I'm using Berkley Power minnows as well as live spikes and wax worms for bait. The Power Minnows tip a 1/32 oz. jig head or a drop shot rig. Either way, I haven't gone wrong in locating and catching these tasty morsels.

• Contact Mike Jackson at angler88@comcast.net, and catch his radio show 6-7 a.m. Sundays on WSBC 1240-AM and live-streamed at www.mikejacksonoutdoors.com.