Coppernose bluegills have the potential to grow quite a bit larger than the common bluegill species. Many of them fall in the
10- to 12-inch range. (Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Abney)
In the dark, vast and mysterious tidal flows throughout much of the southern United States, there is a panfish that many anglers know about but few pursue. Jeffrey Abney, of Elizabeth City, N.C., is one of those certified panfish freaks who has made fishing for the giant bluegills of the Albemarle River system his life’s pursuit. He chases the abundant coppernose bluegills that live here multiple times per week throughout the year and is known for his...