Bull Shoals Suckers

[chasen rainbows]

I was fishing the upper part of the Bull last spring and each morning on the way to the ramp we would see people on ladders snagging for suckers. By the time we came back they would be gone. I would really like to try it this spring. Could some shed a little light on just how it is done.

[Sam]

Sure thing. Springtime sucker grabbing is one of my favorite things.

You need about a 5' rod, the real stiff kind (broomstick) made for catching big catfish, a casting reel, and 30 lb. test monofilament. Lots of people tie on special grabbing hooks that are available at tackle stores - they're made of a big single hook welded onto an old-fashioned bottle opener. Instead of that, I like to use a big treble hook - I don't know the size, but about 2 1/2" diameter between the points. Whichever kind of hook you use, tie a little piece of white or flourescent orange cloth around your line at the top of the hook. That's so you can see where your hook is against the gravel creek bottom.

The season starts March 15, but it's usually April before suckers start coming up the creeks. Polarized sunglasses are a must, so you can see past the glare on the water surface. Look for suckers - they come in big bunches with their heads pointed upstream. When you find some, don't let them see you, cast past them and guide your hook so it rests on the bottom among them. Watch your hook, and when a sucker swims right between you and the hook - YANK.

This is when fishing is more like hunting. It seems like I've spent half my life waiting for a fish to bite - but they don't have to bite when you're grabbin'. The limit is 20 suckers, and they're great eating. Scale them before fileting, then leave the skin on the filets. Take a sharp knife and score the meat about every 1/4" down to the skin, bread the filets, and deep fry 'em. Have fun!

[chasen rainbows]

Sounds simple enough. It looks like a ton of fun and i will be there in mid to late april to give it a try.

[Wayne SW/MO]

They do it the F bridge on Bull creek and in Swan at Shadow Rock park. It can be tricky in Swan at times because the Whites will be there at the same time.