Barge fishing techniques

My buddies and I are thinking about trying some barge fishing. We have no idea what we are doing. We are experienced anglers with all the gear but this is new to us. Thanks

Thanks guys. I am not sure if we are going but it's looking likely.

3-way rigs (usually 1oz) or killer jigs w/stinger hooks work the best. I've had luck on both minnow and crawlers. I've never had much luck with plastics but I've seen them work for others. Jumbo reds work great for perch on a 3-way rig. Call ahead or ask at the bait shop to see what size jig you'll need for the current. I usually stick to 1/2oz or 5/8oz but have had to go up to 3/4oz when the current is really going. I've seen a lot of people use zips and other blade baits but have never had luck with them myself.

Check out Clement's Fishing Barge in Genoa. Pretty hard to beat a jig and minnow or twister.

It's very easy. You can catch almost anything on a plain hook and weight - you just need enough weight to hold on the bottom. Minners or crawler chunks, depending on what you are after. Hair jigs or jighead and plastic work well, too. Plan to stake out a territory and not move around a lot, cuz it's often elbow to elbow. Northern and perch are running hot right now. Walleyes and sauger should be from the last week in March to the first week or two in April. They are going a little early this year, with the warm weather, so do not wait. Good luck.