I used to catch lots of bluegill and pumpkinseed from square lake. About 10 years ago the beaver dam washed out or was destroyed. since then the water level is 2-3' lower than it used to be. Much of the perimeter of the lake that used to be 2-4' deep and covered in lillypads and full of bluegill, is now about 1-12" deep and mostly devoid of fish. I think habitat loss and increased fishing pressure have taken a heavy toll on the bluegill. Last few times I tried there I struggled to find and catch just a few. There are still a few around though.
I've heard Horseshoe lake is loaded with bluegill.
Recenly I caught lots of small (2"-4") bluegill from carney lake. All around the lake. A lot of them were about 50' from shore, right in front of the public access.
I've caught a few larger bluegill on small lures. I've caught TONS of bluegill on fly hooks, little ones and big ones.
My favorite bluegill rigs:
--Torpedo float (bobber) with 3' leader and a size 12 or 14 adams fly or similar. Cast out over bluegill and retrieve slowly.
--Bobber with 3' leader, with a size 14 or 12 dry fly tying hook with a piece of small worm. Real works best when fish are finicky, artificial often works great also and lasts longer. For the fake worms I break off about a 1/4" to 1/2" long piece and thread it onto the hook however you prefer.
https://www.berkley-fishing.com/powerbait-power-floating-trout-worm-1317147https://www.amazon.com/XFISHMAN-Hooks-Curved-Fishing-Assortment/dp/B07SLC3VSG/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=dry%2Bfly%2Bhook&qid=1692806083&sr=8-6&th=1--Dropshot weight. 6" to 18" above the weight, tie a 4" leader to a dry fly tying hook and piece of worm. Cast out and just drag it slowly across the bottom. Pause occasionally.
Also, these are a must-have for removing little hooks from bluegill's small mouths:
https://www.amazon.com/Premium-Life-Hemostat-Curved-Forceps/dp/B00062N42S
