sturgeon vs. bullheads

fishin optician · 07-09-2001, 08:02 PM

Any of you oldtimers got any tips for keeping the bullheads off when fishing for sturgeon in the lower Columbia. Went last week and got limits both days. We got them all on herring because the anchovies couldn't stand the bullhead assault. Also the crabs are a problem. Would using a corkie or cheater float the bait off the bottom a little bit? Any tips would help.(I'm thinking I may gear down to the bullheads and forget the sturgeon!)
Also Rags, you'right about GR, but keep it quiet. Who got you your biggest fish?

Fishin Optician

"If it pauses, hesitates, stops, SET THE HOOK!"
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Hookset · 07-09-2001, 08:10 PM

David Johnson under the guides page posted some tips on this.

You could try some floats to elevate your bait. I tried this last year without any fish hooked for apx. 4 hours total.

I just keep moving around and look for current. Above the bridge is better to stay away from crabs. The dang sculpin are everywhere. I mentioned the other day that sturgeon like squid. A tough bait for even a bullhead.

best of luck fishing O.,

hook

Finn-icky · 07-09-2001, 09:31 PM

[img]images/icons/cool.gif[/img] Now, let me SEE*** oops--sorry about that. If you don't want the little ones to rob your bait, take my partner. Nothing will be hungry for the rest of the day. Try the squid on those real bad days, at least you are fishing. Good luck

Biteme · 07-10-2001, 02:50 PM

I had started a post about this subject last week got some good ideas from hook and others. went back over last thurs to astoria on fri I had a trip and it was a bullhead fest. couldnt keep a anchovy or shrimp on the bottom and herring or smelt wasnt working. somebody replied to my post I appologize for not remembering who, that bullheads make good bait. I caught one of the little buggers cut the head off and hooked him up, two keepers on one bullhead. tried it again the next day and it didnt work, but that day the bullheads werent to bad and the anchovy bite was happening. So the next time you cant get away from the bullheads hey go with the flow and catch a couple for bait you might be suprised.

hook are you staying up at Kampers West If so we are neighbors.