Panfish are perfect for fun, fast action and feeding the family. These small baits catch bluegill, crappie, and perch.
Our Top Picks
Trout Magnet
A tiny split-tail bait deadly on panfish under a float.
Beetle Spin
A small spinnerbait that catches everything with fins.
Bobby Garland Baby Shad
A proven crappie and panfish soft plastic.
Berkley Gulp Minnow
Scented minnows panfish cannot resist.
Small Jig Heads
1/32–1/16 oz heads for tiny jigs and plastics.
What to Look For
Downsize everything — small hooks, light line (2–4 lb), and tiny baits. Fish around docks, brush, and weed edges. A slip float over a jig or live bait is deadly and easy.
Bottom Line
A small jig with a Trout Magnet or Baby Shad under a float catches panfish almost anywhere.
Written by the FishDojo Team
The FishDojo team researches fishing gear and techniques for anglers of every level. Our picks focus on well-reviewed, widely trusted products.
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