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Panfish Secrets: Mastering Micro-Lures for Lake & Pond Fishing Success
Discover the small secrets that lead to big catches.
In Panfish Secrets, lifelong angler Richard Coleman reveals decades of hard-earned wisdom about catching bluegill, crappie, perch, and sunfish using micro-lures and ultralight gear. From subtle presentations to the science of lure colors, Coleman breaks down how ordinary ponds and lakes can produce extraordinary results when approached with skill and patience.
Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a seasoned fisherman looking to refine your finesse game, this book teaches practical, tested methods that work in any freshwater environment. Coleman also shares personal stories, tackle insights, and lessons passed down from his father—blending technical know-how with the timeless joy of fishing.
Inside you’ll
How to choose and modify the perfect micro-lure
Reading pond structure without expensive gear
The best seasonal patterns for panfish
Proven rigs, line setups, and retrieval techniques
Simple tricks to out-fish larger tackle users
Panfish Logbook & Quick-Rig Charts to record catches and streamline your setups
A must-have guide for every angler who believes the best fishing stories start small.
“Big results come from going small.”
Author's Every technique in Panfish Secrets comes from decades of real-world fishing on Long Island and across New York. These methods were learned the hard way-on the water--through trial, error, missed strikes, and plenty of fish landed.
In Panfish Secrets, lifelong angler Richard Coleman reveals decades of hard-earned wisdom about catching bluegill, crappie, perch, and sunfish using micro-lures and ultralight gear. From subtle presentations to the science of lure colors, Coleman breaks down how ordinary ponds and lakes can produce extraordinary results when approached with skill and patience.
Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a seasoned fisherman looking to refine your finesse game, this book teaches practical, tested methods that work in any freshwater environment. Coleman also shares personal stories, tackle insights, and lessons passed down from his father—blending technical know-how with the timeless joy of fishing.
Inside you’ll
How to choose and modify the perfect micro-lure
Reading pond structure without expensive gear
The best seasonal patterns for panfish
Proven rigs, line setups, and retrieval techniques
Simple tricks to out-fish larger tackle users
Panfish Logbook & Quick-Rig Charts to record catches and streamline your setups
A must-have guide for every angler who believes the best fishing stories start small.
“Big results come from going small.”
Author's Every technique in Panfish Secrets comes from decades of real-world fishing on Long Island and across New York. These methods were learned the hard way-on the water--through trial, error, missed strikes, and plenty of fish landed.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2025
3 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
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November 19, 2025
Learn, Unlearn and Relearn Fishing
Panfish Secrets is a ten-chapter book by Richard Coleman. The 168-page, October 2025 book’s sections range from Why Micro-Lures Work through Fishing Structures & Depth to Cheat Sheets & Log Pages.
Based on his decades-long lived experiences, the author fosters his readers’ “genuine appreciation for the simple joy of casting a line, observing nature, and refining one’s skills”. Thus, when, earlier on, he concludes that accessible, finesse, natural-looking, wide-encompassing, and versatile micro-lures modeled on small prey-size bites ensure fishing success, readers instantly get the drift of his anywhere, how-to and why narratives.
The insightful book’s comprehensive fishing discussion includes: gear setup such as line, reel, and rod selections, crankbaits, and their comparisons; types of micro-lure presentations, best ways to rig your lures, and effective strategies for “retrieves and cadence…and when to use each style”; seasonal structural and depth zonal factors when locating fish; adjusting micro-lure approaches accordingly based on seasonal variables;
factoring in weather conditions and water’s appearance; fishing problems (like ignored, missed, invisible, and snagged lures alongside unknowns and abrupt weather) and respective solutions for micro-lures “when fish just won’t bite”; navigating ethical, legal, and social issues; effective improvement strategies for your customized personal playbook for future reference, with cheat sheets about water condition-based lure selection and summer-based depths and structures; and bonus pro tips, essentials, and 50 fishing log entries and best fishing trips whose fillable variables will help you up your fishing adventures.
With vibrant visual presentations, valuable end-of-chapter tips, rememberable chapter wrap-ups, insightful appendices with checklists, quick references, interesting troubleshooting, and observation notes blanks, the recommendable pocketbook Panfish Secrets helps you learn, unlearn and relearn fishing.
Panfish Secrets is a ten-chapter book by Richard Coleman. The 168-page, October 2025 book’s sections range from Why Micro-Lures Work through Fishing Structures & Depth to Cheat Sheets & Log Pages.
Based on his decades-long lived experiences, the author fosters his readers’ “genuine appreciation for the simple joy of casting a line, observing nature, and refining one’s skills”. Thus, when, earlier on, he concludes that accessible, finesse, natural-looking, wide-encompassing, and versatile micro-lures modeled on small prey-size bites ensure fishing success, readers instantly get the drift of his anywhere, how-to and why narratives.
The insightful book’s comprehensive fishing discussion includes: gear setup such as line, reel, and rod selections, crankbaits, and their comparisons; types of micro-lure presentations, best ways to rig your lures, and effective strategies for “retrieves and cadence…and when to use each style”; seasonal structural and depth zonal factors when locating fish; adjusting micro-lure approaches accordingly based on seasonal variables;
factoring in weather conditions and water’s appearance; fishing problems (like ignored, missed, invisible, and snagged lures alongside unknowns and abrupt weather) and respective solutions for micro-lures “when fish just won’t bite”; navigating ethical, legal, and social issues; effective improvement strategies for your customized personal playbook for future reference, with cheat sheets about water condition-based lure selection and summer-based depths and structures; and bonus pro tips, essentials, and 50 fishing log entries and best fishing trips whose fillable variables will help you up your fishing adventures.
With vibrant visual presentations, valuable end-of-chapter tips, rememberable chapter wrap-ups, insightful appendices with checklists, quick references, interesting troubleshooting, and observation notes blanks, the recommendable pocketbook Panfish Secrets helps you learn, unlearn and relearn fishing.
January 9, 2026
Panfish Secrets by Richard Coleman is a practical, well-organized, and genuinely useful guide for anyone who enjoys freshwater fishing, whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience on the water.
This book focuses on the art of catching panfish like bluegill, crappie, perch, and sunfish using micro-lures and ultralight gear. Coleman does an excellent job breaking down techniques that often get overlooked in favor of bigger tackle, showing how smaller, more precise approaches can actually lead to better results. The advice is rooted in real experience, and that shows on every page.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is how practical it is. It’s packed with tips that anglers can immediately apply, from lure selection and presentation to reading pond and lake structure without needing expensive equipment. The explanations are clear and easy to follow, and the included illustrations are especially helpful for visual learners.
I also really appreciated the bonus sections that include logbook and note-taking pages. That’s a thoughtful addition that makes the book not just something you read once, but something you can return to again and again as a reference tool. It’s clear Coleman wants this to be a hands-on guide, not just theory.
Another highlight is the personal touch. The author weaves in stories and lessons passed down from his father, which gives the book more heart and makes it feel less like a technical manual and more like advice from someone who truly loves the sport.
Overall, Panfish Secrets is an excellent resource full of practical knowledge, clear instruction, and useful tools. It’s the kind of book that will improve your fishing and stay in your tackle bag for years to come.
This book focuses on the art of catching panfish like bluegill, crappie, perch, and sunfish using micro-lures and ultralight gear. Coleman does an excellent job breaking down techniques that often get overlooked in favor of bigger tackle, showing how smaller, more precise approaches can actually lead to better results. The advice is rooted in real experience, and that shows on every page.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is how practical it is. It’s packed with tips that anglers can immediately apply, from lure selection and presentation to reading pond and lake structure without needing expensive equipment. The explanations are clear and easy to follow, and the included illustrations are especially helpful for visual learners.
I also really appreciated the bonus sections that include logbook and note-taking pages. That’s a thoughtful addition that makes the book not just something you read once, but something you can return to again and again as a reference tool. It’s clear Coleman wants this to be a hands-on guide, not just theory.
Another highlight is the personal touch. The author weaves in stories and lessons passed down from his father, which gives the book more heart and makes it feel less like a technical manual and more like advice from someone who truly loves the sport.
Overall, Panfish Secrets is an excellent resource full of practical knowledge, clear instruction, and useful tools. It’s the kind of book that will improve your fishing and stay in your tackle bag for years to come.
January 24, 2026
Richard Coleman has penned down his 60 years of passion into Panfish Secrets, so that everyone can find success in fishing. Most fishing books promise miracle gear or secret spots. Mr. Coleman does the opposite. He focuses on tiny lures and small, local ponds. When everyone is chasing big catches, he focuses on small and argues that in crowded waters, fish learn to avoid big, flashy lures. To catch them, you have to go small.
The chapters move step by step. First, the book explains why micro-lures work. Then it covers ultralight gear. Rods. Reels. Line. Each choice supports lure action and bite detection. Later chapters explain rigging, retrieves, depth, and structure. The focus remains on ponds and small lakes, rather than big-water tactics.
Core Ideas:
1. Less is more. Use ultralight gear and micro-lures. This mimics the small insects fish actually eat.
2. Be a student. Don't try to force the fish to bite. Instead, learn how they react to the weather and the water.
3. One change at a time. If you aren't catching anything, change your depth. If that fails, change your color. Don't change everything at once.
4. Respect the water. Mr. Coleman reminds us that ponds are shared spaces. Handle fish with care and be kind to other anglers.
The book does have limits. It doesn't have dramatic fishing stories. It is a practical blueprint for beginners. It uses lists, charts, and simple drawings. The book practices what it teaches. If you want to catch more fish in your local pond, read this book. It will change how you look at the water.
The chapters move step by step. First, the book explains why micro-lures work. Then it covers ultralight gear. Rods. Reels. Line. Each choice supports lure action and bite detection. Later chapters explain rigging, retrieves, depth, and structure. The focus remains on ponds and small lakes, rather than big-water tactics.
Core Ideas:
1. Less is more. Use ultralight gear and micro-lures. This mimics the small insects fish actually eat.
2. Be a student. Don't try to force the fish to bite. Instead, learn how they react to the weather and the water.
3. One change at a time. If you aren't catching anything, change your depth. If that fails, change your color. Don't change everything at once.
4. Respect the water. Mr. Coleman reminds us that ponds are shared spaces. Handle fish with care and be kind to other anglers.
The book does have limits. It doesn't have dramatic fishing stories. It is a practical blueprint for beginners. It uses lists, charts, and simple drawings. The book practices what it teaches. If you want to catch more fish in your local pond, read this book. It will change how you look at the water.
November 19, 2025
Panfish Secrets is a practical guide for both hobbyist fishers and more seasoned anglers. This book will both teach the amateur and aid the more experienced fishermen in refining their techniques and approach.
Coleman has 60 years of fishing expertise, which is evident in his writing in this book. The writing is very reader-friendly. Coleman goes through a multitude of techniques systematically and expands on information to master your fishing endeavours.
Coleman thoughtfully breaks this book up into short chapters. He covers both essential information with many useful tidbits and helpful suggestions. Coleman covers basics like equipment, rigging micro-lures, and types of bait. But this is expertly expanded upon by his vast knowledge of seasonal changes, water clarity, and the pros and cons of lighter vs heavier equipment, to name just a few. Coleman also writes of typical problems a fisher might experience and suggests possible adjustments.
There is plenty of useful information in this book. At 168 pages, it is compact. There are also sections at the end of each chapter for the reader to write their own notes. And there are many colourful illustrations littering the pages that aid Coleman's explanations wonderfully. There is also a generous Fishing Log at the end of this book, so this book doubles as a guide and notebook for fishing outings, which I thought was clever.
Overall, I am impressed with this book and highly recommend it.
Coleman has 60 years of fishing expertise, which is evident in his writing in this book. The writing is very reader-friendly. Coleman goes through a multitude of techniques systematically and expands on information to master your fishing endeavours.
Coleman thoughtfully breaks this book up into short chapters. He covers both essential information with many useful tidbits and helpful suggestions. Coleman covers basics like equipment, rigging micro-lures, and types of bait. But this is expertly expanded upon by his vast knowledge of seasonal changes, water clarity, and the pros and cons of lighter vs heavier equipment, to name just a few. Coleman also writes of typical problems a fisher might experience and suggests possible adjustments.
There is plenty of useful information in this book. At 168 pages, it is compact. There are also sections at the end of each chapter for the reader to write their own notes. And there are many colourful illustrations littering the pages that aid Coleman's explanations wonderfully. There is also a generous Fishing Log at the end of this book, so this book doubles as a guide and notebook for fishing outings, which I thought was clever.
Overall, I am impressed with this book and highly recommend it.
November 26, 2025
Panfish Secrets: Mastering Micro-Lures for Lake & Pond Fishing Success by Richard Coleman is a book that provides an informative and clear perspective into the world of micro-lures. It challenges a common speculation among so many anglers that having a bigger bait guarantees a bigger catch. Coleman says that public waters with a lot of pressure results to continuous hooking and releasing of fish hence making them more cautious.
One noticeable strength in the book is that the author has broken down into detail different kinds of rigging in lakes and ponds. The writer covers jig heads, floats, drop-shot rigs, split-shot rigs and tandem rigs. He explains where each one of these techniques works best. He goes further to explain that tandem rigs are an effective option for causing strikes from fish that are aggressive.
This read provides a number of fishing tips ideal for both beginners and hobbyists. The book has pictures that are appealing and can help the reader to connect with what the author is trying to say. There is also the use of tables that are quite self-explanatory and easy to follow through. The author has also provided a place to jot down notes, a summary after every chapter, a glossary for terms and a bonus micro-lure logbook. This is very thoughtful.
This is a good book for people who would love to dive into finesse fishing. Generally, it is a practical guide that describes the reason micro-lures warrant a slot in every fisherman’s tool box.
One noticeable strength in the book is that the author has broken down into detail different kinds of rigging in lakes and ponds. The writer covers jig heads, floats, drop-shot rigs, split-shot rigs and tandem rigs. He explains where each one of these techniques works best. He goes further to explain that tandem rigs are an effective option for causing strikes from fish that are aggressive.
This read provides a number of fishing tips ideal for both beginners and hobbyists. The book has pictures that are appealing and can help the reader to connect with what the author is trying to say. There is also the use of tables that are quite self-explanatory and easy to follow through. The author has also provided a place to jot down notes, a summary after every chapter, a glossary for terms and a bonus micro-lure logbook. This is very thoughtful.
This is a good book for people who would love to dive into finesse fishing. Generally, it is a practical guide that describes the reason micro-lures warrant a slot in every fisherman’s tool box.
November 30, 2025
A Helpful Fishing Guide
PANFISH SECRETS: Mastering Micro-Lures for Lake & Pond Fishing Success by Richard Coleman is a helpful handbook for shallow water fishing. The author writes with passion, drawing on personal knowledge and experience as a lifelong fisherman, which adds a personal touch to the story.
Interestingly, Richard learned these skills from his father, meaning he started practicing them in his childhood. The book provides tips on the types of micro-lures to use, when and where to apply them, and how to effectively use them. Additionally, the author offers examples of different scenarios and weather conditions, giving readers clues on how to adapt their tactics for the best results.
Most anglers will find this book useful and convenient for year-round fishing trips, as it offers tips for all seasons. Even beginners can easily learn how to fish with the step-by-step guide, from preparing a hook to choosing the right lure and actually fishing. The author includes diagrams to simplify explanations and illustrate processes.
The book is well-written, professionally edited, and contains no grammatical errors. The author uses simple language free of technical jargon, making it easy to read and understand. They also include a glossary at the end of the book to help readers understand specialized terminology. This is a must-read for fishermen or anyone interested in lake and pond fishing.
PANFISH SECRETS: Mastering Micro-Lures for Lake & Pond Fishing Success by Richard Coleman is a helpful handbook for shallow water fishing. The author writes with passion, drawing on personal knowledge and experience as a lifelong fisherman, which adds a personal touch to the story.
Interestingly, Richard learned these skills from his father, meaning he started practicing them in his childhood. The book provides tips on the types of micro-lures to use, when and where to apply them, and how to effectively use them. Additionally, the author offers examples of different scenarios and weather conditions, giving readers clues on how to adapt their tactics for the best results.
Most anglers will find this book useful and convenient for year-round fishing trips, as it offers tips for all seasons. Even beginners can easily learn how to fish with the step-by-step guide, from preparing a hook to choosing the right lure and actually fishing. The author includes diagrams to simplify explanations and illustrate processes.
The book is well-written, professionally edited, and contains no grammatical errors. The author uses simple language free of technical jargon, making it easy to read and understand. They also include a glossary at the end of the book to help readers understand specialized terminology. This is a must-read for fishermen or anyone interested in lake and pond fishing.
January 17, 2026
Panfish Secrets by Richard Coleman is an excellent and highly practical guide that proves great fishing does not require big tackle or expensive gear. Drawing on decades of real world experience, Coleman breaks down the art of micro lure fishing in a way that feels approachable, thoughtful, and immediately useful. Whether you fish small ponds, pressured lakes, or quiet neighborhood waters, the techniques in this book are easy to apply and clearly explained.
What really stands out is how well organized the book is. Short chapters, clear illustrations, quick reference charts, and end of chapter notes make it simple to revisit specific techniques when you are heading out to fish. Coleman covers everything from lure selection and rigging to seasonal patterns, water clarity, and how to read structure without fancy electronics. The troubleshooting advice is especially helpful for days when fish are finicky or simply refuse to bite.
The personal touches add warmth and authenticity. Stories and lessons passed down from the author’s father give the book heart and remind readers why fishing is as much about patience and observation as it is about catching fish. The included logbook and note pages are a smart bonus that encourage anglers to refine their own approach over time.
This is a must have resource for anyone interested in finesse fishing and panfish success.
Thank you,
Happy Reading
What really stands out is how well organized the book is. Short chapters, clear illustrations, quick reference charts, and end of chapter notes make it simple to revisit specific techniques when you are heading out to fish. Coleman covers everything from lure selection and rigging to seasonal patterns, water clarity, and how to read structure without fancy electronics. The troubleshooting advice is especially helpful for days when fish are finicky or simply refuse to bite.
The personal touches add warmth and authenticity. Stories and lessons passed down from the author’s father give the book heart and remind readers why fishing is as much about patience and observation as it is about catching fish. The included logbook and note pages are a smart bonus that encourage anglers to refine their own approach over time.
This is a must have resource for anyone interested in finesse fishing and panfish success.
Thank you,
Happy Reading
November 29, 2025
PANFISH SECRETS: MASTERING MICRO-LURES FOR LAKE & POND FISHING SUCCESS.
To call it a guide book is to say the least. This is a well detailed thought process and practical masterpiece. A timeless step by step and all rounded journey, for beginners, encouragement, for frustrated anglers and generally a reminder of the right and sound reasoning to all anglers and aspirants. The author is truly an educator.
The author has gracefully shared his overstanding of the fishing world edifying readers with a clear path and, most importantly, right reasoning when approaching fishing as a whole. The well presentation of the question and answers leap off the pages, the detailed evidence encouraging the underrated small lures totally dismantling the common myth, as he puts it, “Micro-lures only catch small fish.”
In very few words the author masterfully relates thought and practice with the important varying factors such as tools and gear, methods in relation to seasonal tendencies narrowing down to the weather and mood of the day. The use of cheat sheets and logs is strongly encouraged to offer the angler an on-ground learning experience. I would definitely recommend anyone who is passionate about angling and generally a willing learner to indulge in this timeless knowledge.
To call it a guide book is to say the least. This is a well detailed thought process and practical masterpiece. A timeless step by step and all rounded journey, for beginners, encouragement, for frustrated anglers and generally a reminder of the right and sound reasoning to all anglers and aspirants. The author is truly an educator.
The author has gracefully shared his overstanding of the fishing world edifying readers with a clear path and, most importantly, right reasoning when approaching fishing as a whole. The well presentation of the question and answers leap off the pages, the detailed evidence encouraging the underrated small lures totally dismantling the common myth, as he puts it, “Micro-lures only catch small fish.”
In very few words the author masterfully relates thought and practice with the important varying factors such as tools and gear, methods in relation to seasonal tendencies narrowing down to the weather and mood of the day. The use of cheat sheets and logs is strongly encouraged to offer the angler an on-ground learning experience. I would definitely recommend anyone who is passionate about angling and generally a willing learner to indulge in this timeless knowledge.
January 17, 2026
Panfish Secrets: Mastering Micro-Lures for Lake & Pond Fishing Success is an essential, highly practical guide that proves you don’t need a massive boat or expensive electronics to land impressive catches. Drawing on sixty years of experience—much of it on the pressured waters of Long Island—Richard Coleman demystifies the science of "going small." He systematically breaks down why micro-lures out-fish larger tackle, offering clear instruction on gear setup, seasonal patterns, and the subtle art of lure retrieval.
What truly distinguishes this book is its masterful organization. With short, punchy chapters, vibrant illustrations, and "cheat sheets" for troubleshooting finicky fish, it is designed to be a functional tool rather than just a manual. Coleman’s tone is both instructive and warm, weaving in heartfelt lessons passed down from his father that remind us why we fell in love with fishing in the first place. Including a built-in fishing log is a stroke of genius, transforming the book into a personalized playbook for your own local ponds. Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a seasoned angler looking to refine your finesse game, this 168-page pocketbook is a masterclass in patience, observation, and the simple joy of the strike.
What truly distinguishes this book is its masterful organization. With short, punchy chapters, vibrant illustrations, and "cheat sheets" for troubleshooting finicky fish, it is designed to be a functional tool rather than just a manual. Coleman’s tone is both instructive and warm, weaving in heartfelt lessons passed down from his father that remind us why we fell in love with fishing in the first place. Including a built-in fishing log is a stroke of genius, transforming the book into a personalized playbook for your own local ponds. Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a seasoned angler looking to refine your finesse game, this 168-page pocketbook is a masterclass in patience, observation, and the simple joy of the strike.
January 18, 2026
Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime! It seems like Richard Coleman took it literally and came up with this book. Haha!
No fancy talks or fishing jargon. This book is a simple, practical guide on how to catch panfish. There are 10 chapters that include a step-by-step process with tons of tables and illustrations to simplify the information. Each chapter has a notes section at the end, along with a chapter wrap-up that provides a concise summary. In the end, there is a bonus logbook as well, where you can put your details like date of fishing, time, lure used, etc.
The strength of the book is its focus. It avoids big claims. It avoids hype. The writing style is easy to follow. Sentences are short. Instructions are clear. The book suits beginners very well. Experienced anglers can also benefit, especially those who overlook finesse fishing. Some anglers may disagree with the book’s approach. Those who prefer heavy gear or large lures may question the focus on downsizing.
This book isn't just about gear. It’s about changing how you think. If you stop trying to scare the fish and start trying to earn their trust, you will catch more of them. It is a quick, practical guide for anyone fishing in ponds or lakes.
No fancy talks or fishing jargon. This book is a simple, practical guide on how to catch panfish. There are 10 chapters that include a step-by-step process with tons of tables and illustrations to simplify the information. Each chapter has a notes section at the end, along with a chapter wrap-up that provides a concise summary. In the end, there is a bonus logbook as well, where you can put your details like date of fishing, time, lure used, etc.
The strength of the book is its focus. It avoids big claims. It avoids hype. The writing style is easy to follow. Sentences are short. Instructions are clear. The book suits beginners very well. Experienced anglers can also benefit, especially those who overlook finesse fishing. Some anglers may disagree with the book’s approach. Those who prefer heavy gear or large lures may question the focus on downsizing.
This book isn't just about gear. It’s about changing how you think. If you stop trying to scare the fish and start trying to earn their trust, you will catch more of them. It is a quick, practical guide for anyone fishing in ponds or lakes.
January 18, 2026
Fishing smarter and not harder
Coleman crafts a methodical process, that is both personal and instructional which is from his experience of many years in and on water, and not just a theoretical framework that he creates. He shows how catching panfish is an art on its own, and any experienced or amateur person in the field would appreciate Coleman’s lessons. He maintains a friendly tone all through the novel, which makes it approachable and conducive to follow and understand the key lessons that he aims to put across, and it is evident how he loves the process, and it is more like a sport for him.
He goes deep into the details covering the retrieval methods, panfish behavior through seasons, and lure selection. His approach is not all about flash and grab, but finesse, to get the most effectiveness while also enjoying the experience. Coleman provides additional resources in quick rig charts and a panfish logbook which is valuable to readers ready to go panfish immediately and apply the skills and tips that they learn from the book. Aside from the intricacies of panfish harvesting, Coleman adds an extra charm to the book with reflexions, lessons, and stories from his journey in the process.
Coleman crafts a methodical process, that is both personal and instructional which is from his experience of many years in and on water, and not just a theoretical framework that he creates. He shows how catching panfish is an art on its own, and any experienced or amateur person in the field would appreciate Coleman’s lessons. He maintains a friendly tone all through the novel, which makes it approachable and conducive to follow and understand the key lessons that he aims to put across, and it is evident how he loves the process, and it is more like a sport for him.
He goes deep into the details covering the retrieval methods, panfish behavior through seasons, and lure selection. His approach is not all about flash and grab, but finesse, to get the most effectiveness while also enjoying the experience. Coleman provides additional resources in quick rig charts and a panfish logbook which is valuable to readers ready to go panfish immediately and apply the skills and tips that they learn from the book. Aside from the intricacies of panfish harvesting, Coleman adds an extra charm to the book with reflexions, lessons, and stories from his journey in the process.
January 17, 2026
A Practical Guide to Better Panfishing
PANFISH SECRETS: MASTERING MICRO-LURES FOR LAKE & POND FISHING SUCCESS is a clear, practical guide that focuses on improving results through small, thoughtful adjustments rather than complicated gear. Richard Coleman draws on decades of experience to explain why micro-lures and ultralight setups are so effective for panfish. His explanations are straightforward and grounded in real situations anglers actually face on lakes and ponds. The book balances technical insight with an easygoing tone that keeps it approachable.
One of the strongest aspects of PANFISH SECRETS is how usable it is, even for beginners. Techniques are broken down step by step, making it easy for someone new to fishing to follow along and see progress quickly. Diagrams, charts, and notes sections reinforce the lessons and encourage hands-on learning. At the same time, more experienced anglers will find plenty of refined tips to sharpen their finesse approach. Overall, it is a well-organized and practical guide that feels designed to be taken into the field, not just read once and shelved.
PANFISH SECRETS: MASTERING MICRO-LURES FOR LAKE & POND FISHING SUCCESS is a clear, practical guide that focuses on improving results through small, thoughtful adjustments rather than complicated gear. Richard Coleman draws on decades of experience to explain why micro-lures and ultralight setups are so effective for panfish. His explanations are straightforward and grounded in real situations anglers actually face on lakes and ponds. The book balances technical insight with an easygoing tone that keeps it approachable.
One of the strongest aspects of PANFISH SECRETS is how usable it is, even for beginners. Techniques are broken down step by step, making it easy for someone new to fishing to follow along and see progress quickly. Diagrams, charts, and notes sections reinforce the lessons and encourage hands-on learning. At the same time, more experienced anglers will find plenty of refined tips to sharpen their finesse approach. Overall, it is a well-organized and practical guide that feels designed to be taken into the field, not just read once and shelved.
November 13, 2025
This book is perfect for fishermen not just for its advice, but for its practicality as well.
Coleman speaks with the authority and expertise of a seasoned fisherman, which is expectable, as his biography notes that he has 60 years of experience in fishing. It's this wealth of experience that he uses not to ramble, but present a depth of actionable, practical tips to improving your panfishing skills. There's a plethora of illustrations and charts for visual learners and for quick access. However, the book itself can be used as a tool for jotting and taking notes, so you don't have to refer to notes and tips in two different places, which I have to say is genius! I loved this read.
Coleman speaks with the authority and expertise of a seasoned fisherman, which is expectable, as his biography notes that he has 60 years of experience in fishing. It's this wealth of experience that he uses not to ramble, but present a depth of actionable, practical tips to improving your panfishing skills. There's a plethora of illustrations and charts for visual learners and for quick access. However, the book itself can be used as a tool for jotting and taking notes, so you don't have to refer to notes and tips in two different places, which I have to say is genius! I loved this read.
November 21, 2025
Okay, so imagine getting fishing advice from someone who's not only an expert but also an amazing teacher. That's this book! Richard Coleman breaks everything down in a way that keeps you engaged. It’s easy to follow, and his passion for fishing just jumps off the page.
He covers all the good stuff, how to "read" the water, pick the right tiny tackle, and understand what the fish are actually thinking. It never feels like a boring lecture. The tone is friendly, it’s like he's right there on the bank with you, suggesting what to try next.
If you want to have more luck on those slow fishing days, this is the book. It’s a game-changer!
He covers all the good stuff, how to "read" the water, pick the right tiny tackle, and understand what the fish are actually thinking. It never feels like a boring lecture. The tone is friendly, it’s like he's right there on the bank with you, suggesting what to try next.
If you want to have more luck on those slow fishing days, this is the book. It’s a game-changer!
December 4, 2025
Panfish Secrets by Richard Coleman is a smart, practical guide for anglers who want to elevate their finesse fishing game. Coleman distills decades of experience into clear, actionable advice on micro-lures, seasonal behavior, and subtle presentations that consistently produce bigger catches from everyday lakes and ponds. His blend of personal stories and technical tips makes the book both useful and enjoyable to read. The bonus logbook and rig charts are a thoughtful touch that help anglers put techniques into practice. While seasoned fishermen may already know some basics, Coleman’s depth of insight and approachable style make this a valuable addition to any tackle box.
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