Catching pogies, also known as menhaden, is a popular activity for both recreational and commercial fishermen. These baitfish are widely sought after because of their high oil content and use in various industries such as fish meal production, fertilizer, and omega-3 supplements.

The main  advantage of knowing how to catch pogies is that you can use them as bait for other fish. Pogies, also known as Menhaden, are a popular bait for many types of game fish such as tuna, striped bass, and redfish. In this blog post, You will learn in detail how to catch pogies.

Step-by-step Instructions for How to Catch Pogies

Step 1: Inspect Your Bait

When it comes to catching pogies, the first step is to inspect your bait. Make sure it is fresh and lively as this will increase your chances of attracting more pogies. To successfully catch pogies, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment. This includes a cast net, a cooler to store your catch, and a boat or kayak to help you navigate the waters.

Step 2: Find a good location

Pogies are usually found in areas with strong currents, such as jetties, bridges, and bays. Do some research or ask local fishermen for advice on where the best spots are to find them. Before casting your net, make sure to soak it in water for a few minutes. This will help prevent the net from tangling and increase its weight for a better throw.

Step 3: Start Throwing Your Cast Net

Stand on the edge of your boat or kayak and start throwing your cast net towards the desired location. Make sure to use proper technique, such as a circular motion and keeping your wrist straight, to ensure the net fully opens.

Once you’ve thrown your net, let it sink for a few seconds before pulling it back towards you. Use both hands to pull in the net, making sure to keep the bottom of the net higher than the top to prevent fish from escaping.

Step 4: Sort Through Your Catch

After pulling in your net, you will likely have a variety of fish caught, including pogies. Take the time to sort through your catch, removing any unwanted fish or debris. Place your pogies into a cooler with oxygenated water to keep them alive and fresh. This will ensure they stay lively and attractive to other fish you may be targeting.

Step 5: Keep an Eye Out for Baitfish Activity

While you’re fishing for pogies, keep an eye out for any baitfish activity in the water. Pogies are a favorite food source for larger game fish, so this can be a good indication of where to find them.

Catching pogies can take some time and persistence, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t have immediate success. Keep trying different locations and techniques until you find what works best for you. And remember to always follow local fishing regulations and practice ethical catch-and-release methods when necessary.

By  following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be on your way to catching pogies in no time. And who knows, you may just land a big game fish using them as bait. Happy fishing!  So the next time you’re planning a fishing trip, make sure to add “catching pogies” to your list of skills and techniques.

Safety Tips for How to Catch Pogies

1. Wear appropriate clothing and gear – When catching pogies, it is important to wear clothing that will protect you from the sun and keep you cool. This includes a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing. You should also wear closed-toe shoes to protect your feet from any sharp objects.
2. Use sunscreen – Spending a day out on the water can expose you to harmful UV rays. It is important to apply sunscreen regularly and choose a waterproof option that will provide protection even when you are in the water.
3. Stay hydrated – Standing out in the sun all day can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous. Make sure to bring plenty of water with you and drink it frequently throughout the day.
4. Know your equipment – Before heading out to catch pogies, make sure you are familiar with your equipment. This includes your rod and reel, bait, and any other tools you may need. Properly maintained equipment will help ensure a successful day on the water.
5. Have a first aid kit – Accidents can happen when fishing, so it is important to have a first aid kit on board. This should include bandages, antiseptic, and any necessary medication for common ailments.
6. Be aware of your surroundings – When catching pogies, you are likely to encounter other boats and potentially dangerous marine life. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid getting too close to other boats or areas where there may be stingrays or jellyfish.
7. Follow local regulations – Before heading out to catch pogies, make sure you are aware of any local regulations or restrictions. This includes fishing licenses, catch limits, and protected areas. By following these regulations, you can help preserve the ocean ecosystem and avoid potential fines.
8. Bring a buddy – It is always a good idea to have someone else with you when out on the water. Not only is it more fun to share the experience with someone else, but having a buddy can also provide an extra level of safety in case of emergencies.

By  following these safety tips and taking necessary precautions, you can have a enjoyable and safe day of catching pogies. Remember to always prioritize your safety and the well-being of the ocean environment while out on the water.

How Should You Store Caught Pogies Until Use?

After catching your pogie bait, you want to make sure you store them properly so they stay fresh and lively until it’s time to use them. Here are some tips for storing caught pogies:

• Use a Live Bait Tank or Cooler: One of the best ways to keep your pogies alive is by using a live bait tank or cooler. These containers have built-in aeration systems that keep the water oxygenated, ensuring your bait stays alive and healthy.
• Change the Water Regularly: If you don’t have a live bait tank or cooler, it’s crucial to change the water in your container frequently. Pogies need constant access to fresh oxygenated water, so changing out the old water will keep them lively and fresh.
• Keep the Temperature Cool: Pogies thrive in cooler water temperatures, so avoid keeping them in warm or stagnant water. If you’re using a live bait tank or cooler, make sure to keep it out of direct sunlight and add ice packs if necessary to maintain a cool temperature.
• Don’t Overcrowd Your Container: It’s important not to overcrowd your pogies as this can cause stress and even death. Make sure there is enough space for each baitfish to move around comfortably.
• Use a Mesh Bag: If you’re storing your pogies in a cooler, consider using a mesh bag to keep them contained. This will allow water to flow freely through the bag, keeping the baitfish oxygenated and healthy.
• Keep an Eye on Them: It’s essential to keep a close eye on your pogies, especially if you’re planning on using them for fishing later in the day. Make sure they are staying alive and active, and replace any dead baitfish with fresh ones.
• Use Them as Soon as Possible: While following these tips will help keep your pogies fresh, the best way to ensure their liveliness is by using them as soon as possible. This reduces the risk of any baitfish dying and increases your chances of catching a successful fish.

Storing caught pogies properly is essential for any angler who wants to use them as live bait. By following these tips, you can keep your pogie bait fresh, lively, and ready for your next fishing trip. Remember to always handle them with care and use them responsibly to ensure their survival.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trying to Catch Pogies?

Pogies, also known as menhaden or bunker fish, are a popular bait for fishermen due to their oily nature and strong scent. However, catching pogies can be a bit tricky and there are some common mistakes that many anglers make when trying to catch them. In this section, we will discuss some of these mistakes and how you can avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Equipment

When it comes to catching pogies, using the right equipment is crucial. Many beginners make the mistake of using a large net or heavy fishing line, which can easily tear and damage the delicate pogie schools. Instead, it’s recommended to use a smaller mesh size on your net and lighter fishing line to avoid damaging the fish.

2. Not Paying Attention to the Location

Pogies are known to school in large numbers near the shoreline or around structures such as piers, jetties, and bridges. It’s important to pay close attention to these areas when trying to catch pogies. However, many anglers make the mistake of casting their net too far away from these locations and end up missing the pogie schools. It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of pogies and adjust your net accordingly.

3. Not Using Chum

Pogies are attracted to the smell of their own species, so using chum is essential when trying to catch them. Many anglers make the mistake of not using enough or no chum at all, resulting in a unsuccessful pogie catching trip. It’s important to use enough chum to create a strong scent trail that will lead the pogies towards your net.

4. Pulling the Net too Early

When using a cast net to catch pogies, it’s crucial to wait for the right moment before pulling the net. Many anglers make the mistake of pulling the net too early, resulting in only a few pogies being caught. It’s important to wait until the pogie school is completely surrounded by your net before pulling it in.

5. Not Properly Storing the Bait

Pogies are delicate fish and need to be stored properly to keep them alive and fresh. Many anglers make the mistake of not using a proper live bait tank or cooler to store the pogies, resulting in them dying quickly. It’s important to have a well-oxygenated live bait tank or cooler and change out the water frequently to keep the pogies alive and fresh for longer.

In addition to these common mistakes, it’s also important to be patient when trying to catch pogies. They can be elusive and may take some time to find and catch. It’s also important to handle the pogies with care and release any unwanted ones back into the water to maintain a healthy population.

Conclusion

In conclusion,  catching pogies requires a combination of knowledge, skill and patience. It is important to understand the behavior and habitat of these fish in order to successfully catch them. Using the right equipment and bait, as well as knowing when and where to look for them, can greatly increase your chances of catching pogies.

Furthermore, it is also crucial to handle pogies with care and respect, as they are a vital part of the marine ecosystem. By practicing catch and release methods or using pogies responsibly as bait for larger fish, we can help maintain a sustainable population of these important forage fish. I hope reading this post has helped you learn how to catch pogies. Make sure the safety precautions are carried out in the order listed.