You can definitely catch gar with topwater plugs! It is an exciting and thrilling way to target these prehistoric fish. However, it is important to note that gar fishing with topwater plugs requires a different approach and a lot of patience.
To begin, it is crucial to understand the behavior and feeding habits of gar. These fish are known to be ambush predators, often lurking near the water’s surface or in shallow areas. They have a keen eye for movement and are attracted to disturbances on the surface, which is where topwater plugs come into play.
When using topwater plugs for gar, it is important to choose baitfish-imitation plugs that closely resemble the prey they feed on. These plugs typically have a long, slender body and may have features like a propeller or a tail that creates a disturbance in the water when retrieved.
To increase your chances of success, it is essential to have good visibility in the water. This allows you to spot gar cruising near the surface or even sunning themselves. Once you spot a gar, make a cast a few feet in front of it, allowing the plug to land softly on the water. It is crucial to avoid spooking the fish with a loud splash.
After the plug lands, resist the urge to immediately start retrieving it. Instead, let it sit still on the water, imitating a wounded or struggling baitfish. This is where the patience comes into play. Gar are known to be cautious and may take their time before deciding to strike. It is important to remain still and avoid any unnecessary movement that could scare off the gar.
Occasionally, give the plug a subtle twitch to mimic the movements of a struggling baitfish. This can entice the gar into striking, as they are attracted to the sudden bursts of movement. However, be careful not to overdo it, as gar can sometimes be finicky and may be put off by excessive action.
It’s worth noting that gar have a bony mouth, and hooking them can be a challenge. To increase your chances of a solid hookset, it is recommended to use treble hooks or single hooks with a wire leader. This helps prevent the gar’s sharp teeth from cutting through the line.
In terms of tackle, a medium to heavy action rod with a fast or extra-fast tip is ideal for casting and setting the hook. A reel with a high gear ratio is also beneficial for quickly reeling in the slack line after a strike.
Personal experiences and tips:
I have had some incredible experiences fishing for gar with topwater plugs. The anticipation of seeing a gar cruising near the surface and then enticing it into striking is an adrenaline rush like no other. I remember one particular trip where I spotted a large gar sunning itself in a shallow bay. I carefully made a cast a few feet in front of it and let the plug sit motionless. After what felt like an eternity, the gar slowly approached the plug and then suddenly struck with incredible force. The fight that followed was intense, with the gar making powerful runs and even leaping out of the water. Eventually, I managed to bring it alongside the boat and release it unharmed. It was a truly memorable experience.
Here are some additional tips for gar fishing with topwater plugs:
1. Pay attention to the weather and time of day. Gar are more active during warmer months and may be more inclined to strike in early morning or late afternoon when the water temperature is optimal.
2. Use polarized sunglasses to improve visibility and spot gar more easily. This allows you to identify their location and make accurate casts.
3. Experiment with different retrieve speeds and twitching techniques. Sometimes a slow, steady retrieve works best, while other times a more erratic and aggressive retrieve can trigger a response.
4. Be prepared for long periods of inactivity. Gar fishing with topwater plugs requires patience, as it can sometimes take hours before a gar decides to strike. Bring snacks, drinks, and a comfortable chair to make the waiting more enjoyable.
5. Practice catch and release. Gar are unique and fascinating fish that play an important role in the ecosystem. Whenever possible, handle them with care and release them unharmed to ensure their continued presence in our waters.
Gar fishing with topwater plugs can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. It requires patience, observation, and the ability to mimic the movements of a wounded baitfish. By understanding gar behavior and employing the right techniques, you can increase your chances of hooking into these ancient predators. So grab your topwater plugs, head to the water, and get ready for an unforgettable gar fishing adventure!