Out of State Hunting | Ohio Deer Hunts

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Getting Started with Ohio Deer Hunts

Deer hunting is one really addicting obsession and lifestyle choice. Depending on how much effort you put into it, the end result can be dramatically different. For example, if you routinely hunt the same tree stand on the same property for decades, you’ll learn a lot about the local deer herd and their patterns over time. But to really grow and expand your whitetail knowledge, have you ever considered an out of state hunt? If that is an item on your wish list, you might want to consider Ohio deer hunts. Depending on where you come from, deer hunting in Ohio could be a major game changer for you because bucks can get so big and the hunting is great. Here are a few reasons you should consider an Ohio deer hunt.

Why Ohio Has Big Deer

Although it might not be familiar to you, there is no denying that Ohio has some of the best deer hunting in the country. Some truly giant bucks have been taken here over the years, and the secret seems to be getting out. But what makes Ohio so special for growing big deer?

Simply put, there is great deer habitat and food here. Ohio offers an ideal mix of the forest types and structures that whitetails love to hide in and browse. Oak and hickory forests provide a lot of hard mast each fall, which deer absolutely devour. Younger tree species, such as those growing back after a timber cut, are extremely attractive for deer fawning and browsing. Of course, the state also has abundant agricultural food resources to help deer pack on the pounds and grow some impressive headgear. Many farms grow row crops, such as soybeans or corn, which are two of the best food sources for summer nutrition and late season deer hunting. When you pair all of that along with good natural water sources and varied topography (e.g., hills and fields), you’ve got a recipe for big buck potential.

In addition, Ohio has an excellent deer management program. You can only take one antlered deer per year, rather than multiple bucks per year as in other states. Since many hunters here know of the true trophy potential, they are more willing to pass on younger bucks. That means that many bucks make it past the hunting season to grow into mature deer. To help matters even more, there are some incredible genetics of deer in the state. So if a buck can make it to 3.5 years or older, there is a great chance that with good genetics and lots of quality food that they will get your trigger finger itching when they step out in front of you.

Ohio Deer Hunting

So now you know why our state is so good at producing big deer – what about the hunting side of things? That’s ultimately what can make or break a hunting trip plan.

  • License Options and Costs – compared to many other states, especially those with known big buck successes, Ohio has very reasonable hunting license options. You can buy non-resident tags over the counter for Ohio deer hunts instead of applying and waiting to be drawn. And they are very affordable Ohio deer hunts for most people. For the 2018-2019 season, for example, the deer license was $141.50 and an either-sex deer permit was $41, bringing the total to $182.50.  
  • Ohio Deer Hunting Regulations – as mentioned above, you are allowed to take only one buck in the Buckeye state, so hunters need to choose wisely. Luckily, the Ohio deer season runs from late September through early February, which gives you a great chance of taking a buck with a bow or firearm. 

Best Regions for Ohio Deer Hunts

While much of the state has good habitat and food resources for whitetails, that doesn’t mean you are likely going to tag a giant buck anywhere you go. Some regions are better than others when it comes to the odds of encountering a trophy buck. The more pressure a given area gets and the lower the habitat quality, the lower the likelihood of seeing multiple big deer. Generally, your best chances would be in west-central, central, east-central, and southern Ohio. You have a couple options for your Ohio deer hunts in these regions. Briarwood is situated right in the midst of the best ranking big buck counties in the entire state of Ohio. Located in Logan County in the west-central region, this area is annually a producer of trophy whitetail deer.

If you’re really looking for a DIY hunting trip, you could choose to hunt Ohio public lands. Ohio has much more publicly available land to hunt than most people assume, and the often vast timbered areas are great spots for reclusive bucks to hide away. The trick is finding areas without a ton of existing hunting or human pressure. However, that’s tough to confirm without some in-season and in-person scouting, which might seriously stall you on an out of state hunt.

 

A better bet is to choose a hunting outfitter that specializes in Ohio deer hunts. A good outfitter will have extensive local knowledge of the area, manage their properties for maximum nutrition and security, and give you the best chance of shooting a Boone and Crockett or Pope and Young buck as possible. Depending on your specific goals, Ohio deer hunting outfitters could be a great option for you, which brings us to the last point…

Ohio Deer Hunting Outfitters 

If you live to deer hunt or just want to try it for the first time, it’s clear why Ohio is such a good choice. And if you want to tag a record-worthy buck, choosing an outfitter is probably the way to go. There are many to choose from in the state. But before you blindly pick a hunting outfitter, it’s important to know more about them. Fortunately, it’s never been easier to compare outfitters. Here are a few things to find out before you decide:

  • What kinds of properties are available and what is the habitat like on them?  
  • What is their success rate and the average deer size on their properties? 
  • Are accommodations included, and if so, what are they like? Is food included? 

If you are hoping to harvest a truly giant buck, you should look into Ohio deer hunting preserves, as they offer the most control over the deer herd. But as for open range Ohio deer hunts, Briarwood Sporting Club has access to several private properties in Logan County, Ohio that are great for big deer. You stay on our property with access to some amazing amenities, and we provide a semi-guided deer hunt by pre-scouting the area and helping you decide where to hunt for the best chance of success. But you still get to hunt on your own in these areas. If that sounds good to you, reach out to us to reserve your spot. 

Ohio Trophy Whitetails

4 Ice Fishing Tips Useful for Catching Panfish & Perch in Ohio

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Ohio Ice Fishing Tips to Start the Season and Catch More Panfish & Perch

Ohio has an assortment of ice fishing opportunities. Many anglers only think about Lake Erie when ice fishing in Ohio comes up. The “Lake” is certainly a proven winter destination for fishing, but there are many inland lakes and ponds that provide some great ice fishing action as well. The best days on the hardwater in Ohio are those targeting panfish with these four ice fishing tips.

Ice Fishing in Ohio

Ice fishing in Ohio is very much dependent on the weather. It is a state, unlike more well-known ice fishing states such as Minnesota and Wisconsin, that can have variable ice conditions from year to year. Lakes and ponds north of Columbus usually have cold enough winters for solid ice production and an extended ice fishing season. There are, however, some good ice fishing spots in the southern part of the state but ice conditions are less consistent and the season is usually much shorter.

Species such as perch, bluegill, crappie, and walleye are several of the top fish species for anglers to target under the ice in Ohio. The best ice fishing in Ohio is arguably going after panfish and perch. Lakes and ponds in Ohio are set up well for good populations of perch and other panfish species. They thrive in Ohio waters and offer great angling opportunities in winter.

Finding a spot to fish is not as easy as you may think. Not all frozen ponds are open to ice fishing. Unlike other states, ice fishing regulations vary from lake to lake. For example, some municipalities own reservoirs and do not allow ice fishing. One option to avoid headaches of finding a decent spot to ice fish is to join a private club like Briarwood Sporting Club. A club like Briarwood has over 70 acres of lakes open to ice fishing with healthy populations of giant perch, bluegills, crappies, trout and other species waiting to be caught from under the ice.

Consider Ice Fishing Safety First

Before getting into the four ice fishing tips for panfish and perch, every ice fishing trip should start and end with a discussion about safety. First and foremost, safe ice starts at 4-inches thick. This is enough ice to support an angler and basic ice fishing gear. However, 4-inches is the bare minimum. Every additional inch of ice is only that much safer to fish on. Here are several other important ice fishing tips related to safety.

  • Use caution around structure and creeks – Frequently the best place to fish during ice fishing season is around bridge piers, creek channels, docks, and fish habitat structures. But, these are also places that have less safe ice than the main lake. Ice in these areas is usually thinner and more unstable and additional attention is required when ice fishing these spots. 
  • Ice fish with others – Ice fishing with other anglers is one of the best safety tips. If something should happen and you break through the ice, others nearby can offer help. If you are fishing alone, try to fish a lake that will have other anglers on it and also let someone know where you will be fishing and when you plan to return. 
  • Bring a small bag of sand – Believe it or not, a small amount of sand included in your ice fishing gear is a great safety tip. Sprinkle it around your augured holes to avoid slipping. Many anglers think the only danger while ice fishing is falling through the ice. However, many accidents occur from slipping on the ice, which can cause some pretty serious injuries.

4 Ice Fishing Tips for Catching Panfish & Perch in Ohio

Anglers focus a lot on whether they should be using ice fishing jigs or ice fishing with live bait. This debate between artificial and live bait is never-ending. Regardless of your preference, these four ice fishing tips for panfish and perch are more important to take advantage of than bait choice.

#1 – Ice Fishing Electronics Are Required

Portable sonar is invaluable when ice fishing for panfish and perch. Sonar provides key pieces of information such as the water depth, bottom type and whether fish are present. Many times perch can be found feeding above soft bottoms and without sonar or flasher device, you will be guessing at each hole. Additionally, a handheld GPS can be beneficial. You can use this to mark hotspots or underwater structure so that you can fish those areas precisely on your next trip or come back to them during next year’s ice fishing season. Without electronics, much of your day will be lost to drilling holes and blindly searching for fish.

#2 – Plan to Be Mobile and Be Willing to Move

The one thing you can count on while ice fishing is that they will be constantly moving. Rarely will a school feed in one area for an extended period of time. One of the best ice fishing tips is to be willing to move around. Don’t spend hours on a spot that is not producing. Use your electronics at each hole and spend no more than 20 minutes in a location that is not producing. Even the best fishing destinations in Ohio are going to have good and bad areas. Weed out the bad ones and then move between the good areas following the fish.

#3 – Run a Complete Spread

By a complete spread, we mean utilizing both tip-ups and jigging rods. Once you find an area to fish, start by drilling 3-5 holes around a centrally located hole. Keep them within 15- to 20-yards of your primary hole. Set up your tip-ups on the outer holes and start jigging on the primary hole. What this does is allow you to fish efficiently over a fairly large location as schools of panfish and perch move in and out of your area. It also lets you vary depths and baits simultaneously to trigger more bites.

#4 – Go Exclusively to Jigging When the Bite Slows

Whether you prefer live bait or artificial, every angler should have at least a few jigs in their ice fishing gear. There will be days when even though you can find schools of fish, they simply will not bite. Days like this call for a jigging only approach. Focus on two holes and jig two rods. Small spoons work well, but more importantly, it is the technique that will trigger finicky fish to bite. Vary your method from trembling your lure if fish are suspended to slow lifts if fish are more towards the bottom. Once you find what is working, use that to your advantage and replicate that technique at each hole the rest of the day.

Putting these four ice fishing tips to work this winter will greatly improve your ability to pull fish up through the ice. If you are having trouble finding a consistent place to ice fish in Ohio, consider Briarwood Sporting Club. Their sustainable and properly managed lakes provide endless ice fishing opportunities for panfish, perch and other species without the challenges associated with many public ice fishing spots in Ohio.

 

Find the Best Late Season Deer Hunting in Ohio

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Tips for Late Season Deer Hunting

Late season deer hunting is one of those things that can really separate people. After all, it can be a very challenging time to hunt whitetails. Freezing weather, hammering winds, and snow are all an increasing possibility the later in the season that you hunt, and nobody likes to hunt in those conditions, no matter what they tell their friends. At the same time, deer have likely been hunted and pressured for weeks or even months of the deer hunting season, which can put them on high alert – that is especially true with mature bucks. But there is an upside. In the right areas, on the right properties, and using the right hunting tactics, you can be successful hunting deer in the late season. Here’s why that’s especially true in Ohio, and here at Briarwood Sporting Club.

Why Ohio for Late Season Deer Hunting?

Honestly, it’s the same answer for hunting deer any other time of the year. Ohio has the perfect mix of habitat and food for whitetails to thrive and reach their full potential. Overall, there is a large amount of food in the form of row crops (primarily corn and soybeans), which fuel the body size and antler growth you’d expect from such an area. Mixed in with these agricultural fields are stretches of mixed hardwood forests (e.g., oaks, maples, hickory, etc.). These woods offer hard mast in the fall and good cover the rest of the year. In rolling terrain, the forested slopes also provide excellent bedding opportunities surrounding the flat ag fields.

One potential benefit to late season Ohio deer hunting is also a drawback. Most of Ohio consists of private land – that can be good in the fact that many adjoining landowners can join together in a cooperative to let the deer herd grow to a higher standard (i.e., bigger bucks), but the downside is that it can be tough to find a public hunting spot or get permission on private land. Fortunately, the Briarwood Sporting Club provides the best of both worlds.

Late Season Deer Hunting Tips

With all that said, here are several late deer season tips that you can utilize almost anywhere. But they’re especially helpful in Ohio and here on our own property, whether you choose open range or guided deer hunts.

  • Focus on evening food. It usually pays off to focus on food sources (e.g., picked ag fields, standing corn/beans, etc.) and the best time of day to hunt late season deer is definitely the evening. After the rut, bucks are weary and need food, and the colder weather tends to get them on their feet earlier in the afternoons. Positioning yourself on one of these field edges could be the ticket to encountering a giant buck in the late season. 
  • Hunt in covered/enclosed blinds if possible. Mature bucks have likely been harassed a bit throughout the fall, and may be a bit spooky. The more you can hide your silhouette, scent, and sounds, the better chance you have of actually pulling the trigger on a big deer. 
  • Head to the cover in heavily pressured areas. In some areas of Ohio where you see a lot of public or private hunting pressure, deer may avoid open fields in daylight and prefer to stick to the thick cover. Edging in closer to bedding areas and traditional sanctuary areas could be risky, but not for late season deer hunting when you don’t have much time left anyway. 
  • Give up the late season deer calling and scents. In most places, the bucks have seen and heard it all up to this point, and might get skittish about it. It’s better to rely on a good tree stand or blind position instead. 
  • Get mobile. If you’re doing some late season big woods deer hunting with a lot of room to roam, consider tracking and stalking a buck instead. You can sometimes sneak right up on them if the conditions are right. 

If done the right way using the tips above, late season deer hunting can be a great way to get a shot at a mature buck of a lifetime.

 

Why Briarwood?

That brings us to the next point. Why consider hunting at Briarwood Sporting Club? As we said, it can be hard to get access to hunting land in our state, but we have access to our own amazing property and several others nearby. We have two options for whitetail deer hunting. You can choose to hunt open range deer on one of the local properties in Logan County to which we have exclusive hunting rights. Or you can go on guided whitetail deer hunts right here on our estate. The open range properties offer a wonderful mix of habitat and food, and you have a great chance at harvesting a deer on one of them. Our own trophy whitetail estate offers you the rare chance to encounter 200+ inch whitetails, which is unheard of in most of the country, making us an amazing deer hunting outfitter choice.

Chris with a 160 4/8’s free range ohio late season buck from Briarwood.

How Did This Late Season Hunt Go Down?

  • Nov. 17- Chris found Briarwood by searching for “open range whitetail hunt in Ohio” and immediately requested the open range packet.
  • Nov. 19- The packet is sent and Chris is contacted shortly after. Chris wanted to hunt during Ohio’s firearms season on Nov. 26. We already sold out of Ohio open range gun season hunts so we booked him for a late season hunt during Dec. 12-16.
  • Dec 13th, the evening of the second day of his hunt, Chris scores this 160 inch buck!

Ohio Trophy Whitetails

The Best Fall Fishing Ohio Has to Offer

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Fall Fishing in Ohio at its Finest

Whether you want to accept it or not, fall fishing in Ohio is here. The air has an all to recognizable fall chill and smells of changing leaves abound all across the state. The best way to deal with the inevitable fact that winter is quickly approaching from a fishing perspective is to realize that fall fishing opportunities can be pretty good.

There are plenty of fall fishing options in Ohio. Steelhead are embarking on their yearly migration from Lake Erie into the tributaries, trout are becoming more active, and bass and panfish can be caught in predictable locations. The challenge is often finding places to fish, or more importantly, places to fish in the fall that provide different species to catch in one place.

The Best Fall Fishing in Ohio Destination

Many fall fishing opportunities exist in Ohio; however, few rival the opportunities that exist at the Briarwood Sporting Club. Briarwood is at the top of the Ohio fishing club list and one of the finest sporting clubs in the eastern United States The club is also one of Ohio’s best fall fishing destinations. Anglers can catch many different species in over a hundred acres of lakes and four different pristine streams.

Membership at Briarwood Sporting Club gets you access to all these waters where you can catch anything from bass to trout. This centrally located club in Ohio is known for some of the best trout fishing in Ohio on the fly and generally all-around exceptional fall fishing opportunities. 

3 Primary Fall Fishing Opportunities at Briarwood

An angler has his or her choice between several species of trout, largemouth bass, panfish including crappie and perch, and even large game species such as walleye and muskie. However, there are three species in particular that make Briarwood one of the best fall fishing destinations. Here they are and how to catch them.

Top 10 Fish Species in Ohio

Early Fall Bass Fishing Tips

Bass are now transitioning from their summer patterns to fall areas. Their main focus during this transition is cover and food. Largemouth bass will begin to school together around remaining green lake vegetation to target baitfish. It is common to see bass boiling on the surface chasing baitfish near this vegetation during fall, which provides a great opportunity for topwater baits. Another good largemouth spot to fish is any type of structure. Brush piles, stumps, sunken logs, and rocks all hold bass during the fall. One of the more important early fall bass fishing tips is to completely exhaust a piece of structure. Again bass are starting to school together in the fall so if you catch one bass off a brush pile or log chances are there are a few more around.

When you are fall fishing in Ohio for largemouth bass, these three lures rise to the top.

  1. Swim jigs – Swim jigs work well around structure and vegetation, exactly where bass will be lurking. Swim jigs are one of the best fall fishing lures to imitate baitfish. Choose colors like bluegill, perch, or white depending on the main forage in the lake. 
  2. Spinnerbaits – Spinnerbaits put off a ton of vibration and flash to catch a feeding largemouth’s attention. They can also be fished at various speeds and through cover easily depending on how bass are feeding on a particular day. Spinnerbaits in bright color variations such as chartreuse and large double willow blades are staples all the way up to winter. 
  3. Soft Plastic Jerkbaits – When fish are schooling on baitfish during the fall, nothing catches bass better than a soft plastic jerkbait. It can be fished weightless or weighted depending on how the baitfish are moving. It can also be jerked fast or slowed down weedless in and around dense vegetation or on top of brush near the shore. 

 

Catching Fall Trout at Briarwood Sporting Club

Trout, much like bass, are foraging more and more each day as the water chills. Fly fishing then, of course, begins to heat up again in the fall. Fall insect hatches begin in late August and continue at various levels through October. Although, the bulk of a trout’s diet this time of year is subsurface. Streamers and minnow imitations capitalize on this and are highly productive and consistent during fall months.

Streamer fishing is better on overcast days and during the morning and evenings when larger trout are feeding intensely. The best fall fishing flies in the subsurface category are woolly buggers, sculpins and minnow variations in white and black. Fish these streamers fast through riffles and along bank edges. The faster the better since you are looking for quick reaction bites. 

Perhaps fly fishing is not your chosen method to catch trout. An ultra-light spinning rod matched with a small minnow jerkbait can be just as productive when fall trout fishing. Fish it through the same water you would rip a streamer to catch large feeding rainbows and browns. 

Autumn Panfish Tactics 

Fall fishing in Ohio for panfish can be a relentless catch after catch. Crappies and perch are easy to catch in the fall. Both species can be located in large schools around offshore structure. Some of the best fall fishing occurs once these schools are found. Other panfish species such as sunfish can always be caught in good numbers near vegetation along the shore, however, they too will be moving towards deeper water as the days get shorter.

Regardless of the species of panfish you are fishing for, the most productive fall fishing lure is a small jig tipped with either live bait or a soft plastic. Natural colors of soft plastics like tubes and curly tail grubs will produce when fish on a jig in schools of crappies and perch. Upsize your lures (over 2-inches) for getting more bites from bigger crappies and perch. Sunfish are more reactionary and lures in flashy colors work better than natural colors.

Ready to put these fall fishing tactics to the test? There is no place better than at a top Ohio fishing club like Briarwood Sporting Club. Membership gets you access to high-quality lakes and streams that provide the best fall fishing in Ohio. The investment is not only for fishing experiences that are second to none, but it gets you amenities no other club has to offer. Start your fishing adventure today with the Briarwood Sporting Club. 

Briarwood Fishing Club

Outfitter Reviews and Why You Should Read Them

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The Importance of Selecting the Right Outfitter

Hunting outfitters are all the rage.  They offer incredible accommodations, stress free adventure, and the chance to harvest that buck of a lifetime. It’s no wonder across the country people are seeking out the perfect outfit to use. However, with anything, not all hunting outfitters are created equal.

Nor are they cheap.  In fact, many hunters invest thousands of dollars in an experience that leaves them without a harvest, a good night’s sleep, or without a smile on their face.  The worst part? They can’t get their money back.

Therefore it’s obvious that finding the right outfitter can be a challenge. Our outfitter selection guide goes through each individual factor that creates a quality experience.  However, it doesn’t cover how to know these outfits actually have those qualities.

That’s why it’s important for every hunter to do their research before booking. Research can include many things; but the best research can often come directly from testimonials and reviews.

Of course, not all reviews are created equal either.  That’s why it’s important to read the details, understand the source they came from, while also understanding individual expectations. Below we have compiled a detailed guide on navigating reviews that will help you through your hunting outfitter selection.

Finding Accurate Reviews

Before using reviews as a reliable source of information, it’s important first to check their validity.  This means checking their source website, their date, and analyzing the writer. In general, detailed reviews are the best reviews, as long as they are authentic.

Beneficial reviews can come from a variety of sources including: 

  • Website testimonials 
  • Review Based sites such as Facebook Business Pages 
  • Social Media 
  • Google 
  • Forums 

By looking through these resources, hunters can get unbiased, quality information about their prospective destinations.

Sources

Website Testimonials 

Website testimonials are a great way to get a detailed representation of an experience.  Although only the best are selected, they tend to be full of details ranging from hospitality to guide friendliness.

When in doubt of review authenticity, reach out to the resort owners to gather contact information of the testimonial giver.  Often times, they are more than willing to share!

Review Sites 

Although website testimonials are a great way to find out the details; looking around the internet can also confirm validity and give a different perspective. We recommend looking at many different sources when gathering information from review sites.

 This includes:

  • Google 
  • Facebook 
  • The Business Bureau 
  • Hunting Forums 

Below is an example of a Google review.

Reviews on these sites are not screened by the resort and are often very complementary information to the website.

Watch Social Media Content

Social media content is a great way to see “real life” action photos, video and reviews.  Not only can you see what people are saying about the outfitter on platforms such as Facebook, but as previously mentioned, you can also search for what other people are saying about them.

 

It also allows prospective guests to reach out to recent visitors, be mesmerized by the photos, and get a “real” feel for the environment. Social media is a great way to get on demand, real life references when seeking out the best outfitter.

Check the Dates 

The final piece of advice is to check the dates. As with many businesses, ownership, environment, and harvest rates change overtime.  That’s why it’s important to read recent and up-to-date reviews instead of just assuming anything and everything is legitimate.

Analyzing the Details to Find the Right Outfitter

After you’ve considered where your sources have come from; it’s time to go through them and analyze the details of the outfitter.

Often time’s people rave (or complain) about their outfitting experiences online.  From cleanliness to personalities, much of the most beneficial information comes from reading the opinions of others who have been there.

Factors to look for in and in-depth review include: 

  • Accommodations 
  • Atmosphere 
  • Hospitality 
  • Deer Management 
  • Additional Attractions 

Of course, the more specific the better.  Below is an example of a detailed review.

“I have hunted Briarwood Sporting Club since 2012 sharing the experience with multiple family members. I have had the pleasure of hunting across North America many times for whitetail deer but none compare to the hunting grounds, rolling hills and scenic views that this club offers. Briarwood has world class whitetail deer with unbelievable genetics, exceptional lodges and a professional staff. Having the opportunity to fish with my Dad after the morning hunts was priceless. I would highly recommend Briarwood to anyone looking for a phenomenal hunting experience!” – Jeff M

Instead of just mentioning the deer harvested, he also highlighted the views, professionalism, and hospitality of the club.  These are all important when investing money into an outfit. So although he “recommended” Briarwood, the real quality lies within the details of his testimonial.

Below are factors that should be discussed in every detailed review.

Accommodations

Accommodations are an important part of any experience. From cleanliness of the establishment to the available amenities; often times reading the details is the best identifier for what to expect.

Common and beneficial topics discussed in reviews include:

  • Food quality 
  • Cleanliness 
  • Space 
  • Hospitality 

These types of topics are often not addressed by the owners, on the website, or even by individuals who recommend it.

However, they are incredibly important and can usually be found when reading reputable reviews.

 

For example, people will often discuss the condition, cleanliness, and practicality of the accommodations.  If the room seemed dirty, worn, or at all uncomfortable, reviewers will let it be known. As a hunter, it’s important that accommodations outside of the hunt are exceptional, and this is the best way to confirm that.

Atmosphere

When reading through reviews, it’s also important to gauge the “atmosphere”. The atmosphere is essentially the environment, hospitality, and general feeling experienced at the outfitter.  Determine the quality of the host(s), the guides, and the workers. A grumpy guide or host can make an outfitting experience terrible, no matter how good the actual deer hunting is.

Deer Management and Quality

The quality of the deer herd and its management can be misleading.  Often time’s prospective visitors will see photos of clients with massive deer and assume they will harvest the same thing. This is often not the case for a few reasons:

  • Photos don’t always come from the property they are advertising 
  • Photos can be very outdated (with no mention of the date) 
  • Photos are often of a guide’s historical success, not clients

Again, this is where reviews can help separate false expectations from reality. It allows the hunter to get a better idea of the actual hunt then relying on a vague photo. Knowing if recent guests have had success is incredibly important before committing to an outfitter.

Additional Attractions

 

Finally, it’s important to consider the quality (or use) of the resorts attractions.  This is important for a number of reasons, but one big one is because of party hunting.

Hunting in a group often means one or two hunters tag out before the others.   This can lead to a lot of down time for those individuals. However, there is no need to sit around and do nothing, especially after forking out thousands for an experience, not just a harvest. Instead, look for reviews on outfitters additional attractions.  For example, Briarwood offers world class fishing, complementary to its guided hunting. This is a fantastic addition to the outfitting experience.

Finding the Perfect Outfitter this Deer Season

It’s obvious that reviews are an incredible resource when finding the best outfitter for your goals this fall.  That’s why at Briarwood, we pride ourselves in our guest’s absolute satisfaction. Across the internet, you can find high quality, recent reviews on hunters overwhelming success and satisfaction with every adventure. We recommend you check out our reviews on Google, Facebook, and right here on our own site.

They are a freely available source of information every hunter should use before booking their next adventure.  We also recommend you check out our guide on what to look for when picking the perfect outfitter this season.

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Why Ohio is One of the Best States for Deer Hunting

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Why and How to Hunt Ohio for Trophy Whitetails

It wasn’t too many years ago that Ohio wasn’t even on the radar when it came to states that were holding big whitetails. But, that is changing. Ohio is quickly becoming a state on just about every serious deer hunter’s bucket list. With a deer management program that allows the harvest of multiple does and only one antlered deer per season, a situation is created in which an ideal buck to doe ratio gives deer the chance to reach their full potential. This coupled with ideal habitat and productive soils makes Ohio one of the best choices to pursue that deer of a lifetime.

Ohio Deer Hunting Regulations

Because hunters in Ohio are only allowed to harvest one antlered deer per year, this gives many bucks the opportunity to live to the age needed to be true trophies. Many states that allow hunters to harvest more than one antlered buck may develop hunters with the mindset that they will shoot the first buck they see and then wait for a trophy to come along to harvest with their second tag. Ohio hunters can only kill one buck and like other one-buck states, that one buck will satisfy a hunter’s goals.

Ohio has one of the longest deer seasons of any state. Bow season begins September 29 and runs through February 3. Gun season runs November 26 to December 2 and December 15-16. Muzzleloader season opens January 5-8. Youth deer gun season is November 17-18.

Fortunately, Ohio is a state where you can purchase your non-resident tags over the counter. This will allow hunters plenty of time to plan their hunt with an outfitter without having to worry if they will get drawn for a tag or not. Ohio is home to an estimated 750,000 whitetails with approximately 400,000 permits sold annually. Unlike some states that charge hundreds of dollars for a permit, Ohio can be hunted for much less. The total cost for a license and permit for a nonresident is $182.50. The hunting license is $141.50 and a deer permit is $41. Residents will spend a total of $43, $19 for a hunting license and $24 for a deer permit.

Crunching the Numbers

The Boone and Crockett entries for Ohio are very impressive. The state has a total of 591 typical entries and 385 non-typical entries. The largest typical on record measures 201 1/8” and is number 11 of all time.

The largest non-typical that comes from Ohio was unfortunately found dead. This magnificent animal measured 328 2/8” and ranks as the second-highest scoring non-typical pf all time. Even though this deer was not killed by a hunter, it goes to show you the opportunities that do exist in Ohio for trophy whitetails. The top deer killed by a hunter at this time measurers 295 3/8”. This buck ranks number 8 all-time.

The truth is that any hunter has the opportunity to harvest a monster whitetail within the state. But, realistically, your best odds are going to be with a trustworthy deer outfitter that manages the property and the deer herd to produce deer that reach their full potential.

The 2017-2018 season saw some giants fall to Ohio hunters. The top typical measured out at a whopping 194 3/8” and was killed with a crossbow. The biggest non-typical measured 240 0/8” and was taken with a muzzleloader. In other weapons categories for non-typical (NT) and typical (T) goes as follows:

  • Longbow – 237 5/8” (NT), 182 4/8” (T)
  • Crossbow – 218 6/8” (NT), 194 3/8” (T)
  • Shotgun – 234 1/8” (NT), 184 3/8” (T)
  • Muzzleloader – 240 0/8” (NT), 185 5/8” (T)
  • Straight Wall Rifle Cartridge – 194 0/8” (NT), 157 6/8” (T)
  • Revolver – 166 6/8” (T).

 

Ohio’s Habitat

The terrain, habitat, and soil throughout much of Ohio has a lot to do with the growth of monster whitetails too. Much of the state is made up of agricultural lands consisting of corn and soybeans. These row crops growing on extremely fertile soil, supplying the deer with all the nutrients they need to make it to trophy potential.

Other than Ag fields Ohio is dominated by Oak-Hickory forests, filled with beech, maple, and commonly encountered species across the Midwest. These forests are scattered in the agriculturally dominated areas giving deer ample space. When the terrain becomes more significant the agriculture shifts into steep and rugged forest. The habitat of Ohio makes it one of the ideal deer hunting states, giving plenty of nutrition to deer, yet still providing them with ideal edge and forest habitat.

Outfitters, hunters, and landowners throughout the state are gradually working together to improve the habitat throughout the state. This added with great deer management and selective harvest practices along with hard work from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to ensure seasons and bag limits are in the best interest of the deer first, and the hunter second, make the state one of the best deer hunting states not just in the Midwest but throughout the country. Unfortunately, 95% of Ohio is privately owned, meaning to get to this prime habitat and deer hunting opportunities you might have to go with an Ohio hunting outfitter.

Ohio Deer Hunting Outfitters

With the majority of Ohio being locked away with private ownership, most out of state hunters need to either have access to private land or look for an outfitter. To get a chance at a true trophy class whitetail an outfitter will be your best choice. Ohio has many deer hunting outfitters to choose from, but all are not created equal. If you are looking to hunt Ohio, one of the best deer hunting states, check out the deer outfitter selection guide below.

Selection Guide

If you’ve done your research, you know that finding a quality deer hunting outfitter is hard work. From top notch accommodations, trophy class deer, to having both free range and preserve hunting, one Ohio hunting outfitter that stands out is Briarwood Sporting Club.

Briarwood Sporting Club is an Ohio deer hunting outfitter that is home to some of the nation’s largest whitetail deer. It offers both estate and open range deer hunting. Deer populations on the estate are managed for world class potential, while open range hunting gives hunters a more affordable, DIY experience. The club provides exceptional lodging, service, accommodations, and an unrivaled and prestigious experience. This includes cabins filled with all modern amenities, private jet travel, tailored food and drinks, plenty of room for large hunting parties, and arranged meals. Interested in seeing this for yourself? Check out all of the top notch accommodations in the blog below or check out the prices for hunting at Briarwood Sporting Club Here.

Briarwood Sporting Club

Deer Outfitter Selection Guide | Choosing the Right Outfitter

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How to Choose the Right Deer Hunting Outfitter

Many people dream of a rugged backcountry deer hunt, placing themselves in the scene of long days in the hills, chasing trophy-class animals, and coming home with their hard-earned reward.  However, participating in these endeavors isn’t a possibility for everyone. Not to mention, many of these hunts require extreme conditioning, dangerous endeavors, and long days that aren’t for the faint of heart.  They also requires the right gear, property or public land, and the know how to be successful in the given hunting conditions.

Despite all of this effort, planning, and any pre-hunt scouting, many times these efforts will leave a hunter going home empty handed. For those who are older, younger, or simply don’t have the resources to endure a successful DIY hunt, embarking on these opportunities aren’t even a possibility.

That’s where deer hunting outfitters come in. They equip guests with the right gear, appropriate accommodations, and scouting knowledge to assure that every hunter has the optimum opportunity at a successful hunt. If you are looking for a deer hunting adventure, and want the best chance at a trophy to take home, a deer hunting outfitter is a dependable choice. An outfitter should:

  • Provide productive land filled with ample opportunity 
  • Guide hunters on the property 
  • Provide hunting opportunities for hunters of any age, skill level, or mobility 
  • Provide accommodations that allow for a good night sleep, quality food, and emergency services if needed 
  • Lifts any concern or thought on the details of the hunt, including travel, access, and hunter placement 
  • Offers a probable chance at the caliber buck you are searching for  

However, not all deer hunting outfitters are created equal. Therefore, before investing any hard earned money into an outfitting experience, be sure to evaluate the factors below.  Taking time to do the right research will lead to a better chance at harvesting that buck of a lifetime (and getting what you pay for).

The Location

Proper location is essential for any outdoor endeavor. This is especially true when selecting a whitetail outfitter. In fact, some hunters will book hunts only to find that the property they are hunting doesn’t hold trophy class deer. Perhaps 10 years ago it did; but drought, disease like Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD), or a change in vegetation has left the area more barren of older age class bucks or bucks in the Booner class. Researching location is the first step in finding the perfect outfitter.

To have a productive harvest rate, it’s important that the outfitter is located in an area that’s conducive of producing big deer.  Usually this comes down to soil, state regulations, and habitat. If some of these resources are considered limiting factors and populations are scarce, there is a good chance that outfitters in these locations are less than ideal, no matter how controlled the environment might be. Therefore, pick an outfitter in a location that has a natural population of trophy caliber deer. A few things to consider when determining this include: 

  • How many licenses/tags are allotted in this area? 

This helps identify the probability of older age class bucks existing or how much pressure exists around the outfitter.  

  • What class of deer has the area provided historically? 

Is the outfitter in a well-known Booner state and/or county? The Boone and Crocket and Pope and Young Record heat maps of entries exists for a reason. Is the outfitter in a hot zone for giants? 

  • Is there plenty of vegetation and nutrition for the animals naturally? 

This one may be a little harder to tell, but soil maps and ag yield maps can help align giant deer and sturdy populations within nutritionally rich ag and natural forage. 

  • What’s the harvest success rate of the outfitter? 

Dive into the harvest rate/success rate for the state and/or the specific outfitter, what percentages of hunters go home empty handed? What is the average antler size and age class of harvested deer?

By evaluating the outfitter through their website and marketing resources, looking through the local conservation websites, latest news articles, and reaching out to individuals on social media, finding these answers can be the first step to finding the best deer hunting outfitter.

Know the Quality of Their Deer Herd

Once a few general locations have been chosen, find the local whitetail outfitters and analyze how they manage their deer herds. Just because an outfitter is licensed to outfit, doesn’t mean they produce a quality hunt. In fact, many hunters will invest thousands of dollars into an outfit only to find they could have shot the same deer near their homeland for free (or walked away with no deer at all).

When a specific outfitter is found, consider the following:

  • The average class size of deer that can be expected 
  • Their harvest success rate 
  • How they manage the deer herd 
  • Amount, and quality, of land  
  • Examples of what they’ve produced in the past 
  • Last year’s success rate 
  • Last year’s up and comers for the hit list this year

 Not all deer outfitters are developed the same way.  Many resources are limited, and often times, deer herds aren’t nearly as well managed as they should be. That’s why it’s important to ask questions and research the outfitter’s history of managing their property for trophy bucks.

Accommodations

Part of paying for an outfitter is also paying for the accommodations. For western hunts this can mean experiences filled with tents and camp stove meals. For whitetail outfitters, this can mean high-quality lodging and gourmet options. When considering an outfit’s accommodations, ask the following:

  • What are the outfitter’s lodging options? 
  • Are meals and beverages included? 
  • Is there room for an entire hunting party? 
  • Does it offer quality sleeping accommodations? 
  • Are the accommodations located near the hunting property?  
  • What are hunters required to bring? 
  • If flying, is transportation to and from the airport included?

As previously mentioned, part of the benefit an outfitter is to assure the daily tasks are taken care of, therefore leaving hunters the ability to enjoy and focus on the hunt and not the living details.  Keep in mind, not all outfitters cover these accommodations and not all are equal.

Research, Reviews, and Results

Arguably, the most important task to complete when choosing an outfitter is to read reviews, testimonials, and reach out to previous guests.  No matter how promising an outfit might look on paper; it’s hard to know the quality of the hunt, the people, or the accommodations it actually provides.  That’s why reading online reviews and reaching out to previous guests help shed light on what to expect.

Facebook, Google, forums, and simply reaching out to people who have had experience with the outfit are the best ways to evaluate an outfitters reputation.  By doing this, hunters can assure they are getting the experience they expect and are paying for.

Evaluating Individual Preferences

Once a few key whitetail outfitters have been chosen, the final step is picking the right one based on individual preference. When making the final decision, it’s important that the hunter knows exactly what they want and expect from a hunt. They need to know their physical limits, their budget, the accommodations they want or need, and the size of deer they want to harvest.  Some hunters will do this at the end or the beginning of the process of finding an outfitter, but most should be constantly be contemplating these factors.

Free Range or Preserve Outfitters

Outfitters can come in two different experiences: free range or preserve/trophy whitetail outfitters. However, not every outfitter offers both. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between the two and identify which style of outfitter is the right choice for you. 

Free Range Whitetail Outfitters

Free range hunting outfitters allows hunters to experience a more affordable, free range hunt.  These hunts allow hunters to enjoy a DIY style hunt, that’s comprised of private and public opportunities.  Most free range deer hunting outfitters will still provide quality accommodations, whether in a tent in the mountains or in lodges on the property. The chances of success should still be high, especially if the outfitter does the work required for trail cameras and stand placement to put hunters on bucks.

More Information on Free Range Hunting

 

Preserve Trophy Whitetail Outfitters

Preserve or trophy deer hunting outfitters comprises of hunting deer that are highly managed on a property meant to produce trophy caliber deer. Deer on trophy whitetail outfitters are given all the resources they need to be world class deer. This offers hunters the best opportunity of scoring a deer of a lifetime.  Due to the expenses of the trophy whitetail property, the deer, and the top-notch accommodations these hunts tend to me more expensive. 

More Information on Trophy Whitetail Hunting

An Outfitter that Provides It All

If you’ve done your research, you know that finding a quality deer hunting outfitter is hard work. From top notch accommodations, trophy class deer, to having both free range and preserve hunting, one Ohio hunting outfitter that stands out is Briarwood Sporting Club.

Briarwood Sporting Club is an Ohio deer hunting outfitter that is home to some of the nation’s largest whitetail deer. It offers both estate and open range deer hunting.  Deer populations on the estate are managed for world class potential, while open range hunting gives hunters a more affordable, DIY experience. The club provides exceptional lodging, service, accommodations, and an unrivaled and prestigious experience. This includes cabins filled with all modern amenities, private jet travel, tailored food and drinks, plenty of room for large hunting parties, and arranged meals.

Hunting at Briarwood

 Briarwood Sporting Club prides itself in being an example of what a deer hunting outfitter should be, from world class deer and accommodations, to an unforgettable and extraordinary experience. As you go through the guide and bullet points in the article above, you will quickly gather that Briarwood Sporting Club is in fact a deer hunting outfitter you are looking for.

Deer Hunting Opportunities

Looking for Muskie Fishing in Ohio?

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Ohio Tiger Muskie Fishing at Briarwood Sporting Club

Ohio might not be thought of for record muskellunge, or thought of as even a destination for Muskie fishing, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be! The Ohio fishing club, Briarwood Sporting Club might just become that destination for Ohio!

Briarwood stocked tiger Muskie in late 2014. They were introduced in Briarwood Lake at just the right density in order to grow to their maximum potential.

The Muskie were 9 inches long in 2014, and after 3.5 years the ideal habitat has produced some incredible fish that are only getting bigger! The Muskie on the left was caught last year, while the Muskie on the right was from this year, both have been released to grow and for another angler to enjoy!

This 40″ Muskie was caught this summer and released.

Beside tiger Muskie, Briarwood Sporting Club offers several other fish species in its 16 lakes, including streams offering great fly fishing for trout. With a Briarwood Sporting Club membership you also gain access to top notch accommodations including beautiful lodges. You also gain access to the private loafing lodge that includes a fly tying station and offers you a secluded break from fishing.

Check out all of the different fish species Briarwood Sporting Club offers below!

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If you are looking for Muskie fishing in Ohio, or an Ohio fishing club to join that offers excellent fishing Briarwood Sporting Club is the place for you!

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Why Businesses Need Outdoor Corporate Retreats

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Why Your Business Might Need an Outdoor Corporate Retreat

It’s no secret that the American workplace is changing. Once a place of cramped desks, poor lighting, and little privacy; the modern workplace is evolving into a flexible and creative atmosphere. Employees demand quality working conditions, better treatment, and environments conducive to productivity. In fact, research shows these changes to boost productivity and creativity. With these changes also comes a new movement towards a better employer-employee relationship.

Corporate retreats are part of this movement and are intended to improve overall workplace relations. They are a great way to improve the overall workplace atmosphere for a number of reasons. These include:

• Improving workplace relationships
• Reducing employee stress
• Showing employee appreciation
• Reducing negative competition
• Adding new employee incentives
• Showing favor with public perception

Corporate retreats can be used to brainstorm ideas, develop goals, work on major projects, improve business to business relations, seal the deal on huge proposals, and simply escape the traditional work environment. No matter the reason, there is a benefit to everyone.

• Improve Work Place Relationships

One of the biggest benefits of a holding a corporate retreat is improving workplace relations. This means relationships between managers and staff, between individual employees, and between employer and employee. By getting workers out of their high stress and hierarchy environment they can build healthier relationships with their fellow coworkers. This leads to increased teamwork and a better sense of overall purpose.

• Recruit New Employees

It’s important to attract quality workers. Of course, these workers are in demand. This means businesses have to compete for these employees and their skillsets. Having corporate retreats is a great incentive to attract these workers by showing them that they would be part of a modern, employee-centered workplace.

Corporate retreats are also a great way to excite and encourage newly hired employees. It starts new employees off with an encouraging attitude toward the future of their job. Because of these types of incentives, they may also recommend future openings to friends or family. This can help eliminate job searching resources in the future while helping add confidence in hiring quality workers.

• Give Corporations a Good Reputation

Employee centered businesses tend to have a good reputation. These companies that are spoken highly about also tend to show favor to the public. In today’s societies, public opinion matters. With social media, workplace conditions have become public knowledge. People who are happy with their job tend to share it. This builds public awareness of the company and its reputation.

People are more likely to invest in businesses that are environmentally sustainable, contribute to local causes, and treat their employees well. By providing exciting opportunities and investing in employee health, businesses can gain greater recognition and support from potential customers and clients.

• Rewards Hard Work

One of the best ways to retain hard-working employees is to reward them. However, not every job well-done needs to be a payout. Often times bonuses, pay raises, and promotions can lead to office place conflict among workers. Therefore, instead of using these traditional incentives, try to reward them as a team. A great way to achieve this is through a corporate retreat.

The right retreats can offer employees an opportunity they may not have otherwise been able to afford. This can give them a chance to unwind from work and home stress while showing appreciation for a job well done. These types of activities lead to longer employee retention. Longer employee retention means less time and energy spent on hiring and teaching new individuals. Therefore, by retaining quality employees for longer, businesses are able to save money, improve productivity, and increase loyalty among workers and their employers.

• Improve Workplace Environment

With all of the above points mentioned, it’s obvious that corporate retreats are a great way to improve the overall corporate environment. These retreats can help productivity, increase comradery, and reward hard-working employees. A better environment tends to mean better workers which leads to a greater profit. Therefore, it’s worth investing in these retreats.

Finding The Right Destination

The success of a retreat will depend on the destination. When picking out a destination quality matters. Quality means escaping the office environment and city chaos for a change of scenery. The destination should also be inclusive so employees don’t have to worry about excess packing or amenities. Employees should feel comfortable, not staying at a rundown or primitive accommodation. There should be plenty of creative space where workers can be able to find both mental stimulation and relaxation. Although this can sound like a challenging place to find, the outdoors is the ideal setting. An outdoor retreat, specifically a hunting and fishing retreat can be an ideal getaway for your business and it’s employees and partnerships.

Briarwood Sporting Club | The Ideal Outdoor Corporate Retreat

The Briarwood Sporting Club offers adventure, relaxation, gorgeous scenery, fantastic amenities and more. Situated in the country between major cities, it’s the perfect pristine destination for those looking to escape the business of the cities. It’s surrounded by hardwood forests, world-class fishing opportunities, and even trophy whitetail hunting for those who wish to pursue it. Its incredible views and relaxing atmosphere make it a perfect destination for busy corporations who need to “get away from it all”. If businesses decide to work while on the retreat; they will also have incredible lodging and Wi-Fi amenities to assure that they can both “work hard and play hard” while they are there. This is the ideal place to create both a getaway and a high-class impression upon an improving relationship. The trip to Briarwood Sporting Club is absent of long drives to the airport, checking in, security lines, as the outdoor retreat begins when boarding a private corporate jet.

From the Jet, you immediately set foot in Briarwood Sporting Club’s wild and luxurious environment. The accommodations offer four large cabins to choose from. These lakefront lodges are fully furnished with modern amenities, including kitchens, Wi-Fi, and DirectTV. Some are even equipped with grilling stations and pool tables for added convenience and recreation. They also offer group areas, for larger gatherings or meetings. There are numerous private ponds and trails for those who need tranquility. Of course, there are also incredible outdoor opportunities for those who thrive with adventure. It’s a perfect destination for busy corporations who need a low stress, yet productive environment.

That’s why it’s first-class accommodations and world-class outdoor, hunting, and fishing opportunities make Briarwood Sporting Club a perfect all-in-one destination to escape the daily grind or build important business relationships. It’s the perfect destination for any business’s corporate outdoor retreat.

Learn More About Briarwood Sporting Club’s Luxurious Experience

Fishing for Spawning Bass | Approaches That Work in Lakes

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Strategies for Fishing for Spawning Bass in Lakes

Bass are beginning their most dynamic time of the year. Water temperatures are reaching that magic range between 55- and 65-degrees, which triggers the largemouth bass spawn. In lakes throughout the country, fishing for spawning bass is some of the best bass fishing of the year. This is especially true at the Briarwood Ohio fishing club, where you can catch the spawning action and catch world class bass.

Fishing Opportunities

Focus First and Foremost on Shallow Water

There is no secret that the best place to fish for spawning bass in lakes is in the shallows. Bass will be positioned in areas such as the backs of creeks, coves, gravel flats and sandy openings around shoreline vegetation. In these shallow areas of lakes, you can sight fish for spawning bass either from a boat or the bank. Approach carefully and maneuver cautiously in these shallow areas as you can and will spook bass right off the beds if you are careless.  

Another consideration when fishing for spawning bass are the regulations on your lake and the impact catching spawning bass may have. Definitely reeling in a large female from her bed will disrupt her spawning cycle. However, as long as that fish is returned after caught, she will return to her pre-catch spawning activities. Additionally, some lakes and even entire states have restrictions on specifically targeting spawning bass on beds. Not to worry, there are alternative places during the largemouth bass spawn to catch fish.

Alternative Spots to Fish for Spawning Largemouth Bass in Lakes

Most anglers believe that there is only one place to find bass during the spawning season, as described above. However, one of the greatest misunderstood largemouth bass spawning facts is that they can only be found in shallow flats during the spawn. Of course, the largemouth bass spawn will drive fish shallow but not all bass in an entire lake will be in that single spot. In fact, there are two other spots to target when fishing for spawning bass on lakes. 

The first place you can find fish during the spawn in transitional areas. Transitional areas are distinct and well-defined places on the lake where deeper water meets shallower water. Look for depth changes well over 10-feet in a short distance. Although most anglers will focus on shallow water during the bass spawning season, these transitional zones hold bass that are either not spawning yet or are using the area to feed. Fish these spots throughout the day as bass will often move to and from these transitional areas over the course of the day.  

The second place that holds fish during the largemouth bass spawning season are places with dense cover adjacent to open shallow water. Bass use these areas to feed aggressively just prior to spawning. Large sunken brush piles, large underwater boulder outcrops and dense submerged shorelines are all ideal places for fishing for spawning bass on lakes. It is also worth noting that these same areas are also productive spots for post-spawn bass fishing to catch bass moving out of spawning grounds and kicking it back into feeding mode.

How to Catch Largemouth Bass When Spawning

Catching spawning bass comes down to two basic strategies. Which one you use depends on which spots you are fishing for spawning bass. 

If you are targeting spawning bass on beds, these are the best bed fishing baits to throw. 

  • Flipping jig with a craw trailer 
  • Bladed jig with swimbait trailer 
  • Swimbait in bluegill color 
  • Green pumpkin tubes in 4- and 5-inch 
  • Carolina rigged craw in natural or dark colors 

Sometimes the bed fishing activity is tough or perhaps you are fishing one of those alternative spots during the bass spawning season. In that case, the best spring bass lures would include these baits.

  • Shad style crankbaits 
  • Spinnerbaits 
  • Finesse worms 
  • Squarebill crankbaits 
  • Suspending jerkbaits 

 

Fishing for Spawning Bass When They Disappear 

Like most anglers, you are going to be sight fishing bass on beds, where legal, when fishing for spawning bass. There are many days in the spring where the weather and water will not cooperate with this bass fishing strategy.  

Cloudy, windy and rainy days can all impact how well you are able to sight fish for spawning largemouth bass. In addition, dirty and high water levels can make it difficult to target shallow bass effectively. For days like these during the largemouth bass spawn, you have to change your fishing strategies in order to be successful.

Fish Spawning Grounds Anyways

Even in dirty water or on cloudy days, bass are going to be on those shallow flats spawning so long as the bass are spawning. Rely on fishing reports, water temperatures, moon phase and time of year to be confident that bass are spawning in a particular area. If you are sure the bass spawning season is in full swing, then fish those spawning grounds regardless of conditions. Bass will be there and even though you can’t sight fish you can still blind cast flipping baits and craws through those areas. 

Start and Stop Lures for Bass on Beds

A good strategy for fishing spawning areas blindly is to stop and start your presentations. On the initial cast, let that lure drop to the bottom and sit there. An aggressive male may pick it up at that point or more likely the fish you spooked off the beds takes a few moments to come back and then bites it. Start jigging and dragging whichever particular lure you are fishing with and stop it again. Do this start and stop for as long as your lure is in the spawning area.

Fish Slow and Move Slow

The type of lures for bass on beds mostly require a slow presentation. This is true but you also want to move slowly. Fishing shallow water and not being able to see the fish you are casting at puts you at a huge disadvantage. Frantic trolling motor action, fast movements, shadows and loud casts all alert bass, which make them harder to catch. Keep movement to a minimum, proceed slowly into spawning grounds and be stealthy on the bank.

Fishing opportunities for catching largemouth bass are prolific in the spring. The opportunities may be plentiful but without sound strategies for fishing for spawning bass, the days can be tough. Concentrate your strategies on knowing where bass will be (and where they won’t), having the best lures for spawning largemouth bass, and options for when spawning bass disappear. Doing so puts you in the best possible position to fish the bass spawning season.

Intrested in fishing for spawning bass at Ohio’s best fishing club, check out the fishing membership options at Briarwood Sporting Club.