It's probably not at all accurate, but I tend to classify bedding males as being either committed or non committed, when sitting on a nest. If they are still in the construction phase, they will readily depart when spooked, and may not be in too great a hurry to return. I consider that as uncommitted. I can oftentimes catch these males out in deeper water, after being driven off the nest.

If there are eggs present in the nest, the male may still spook but usually return pretty quick. He's committed to defending that nest, and he's not off foraging for food. That's not to say that he won't pluck a tasty offering up from the bottom of the nest however, and I've caught many bluegills while sight fishing a lively worm dropped into the nest.

I suppose "won't eat" is somewhat subjective. While the fish may appear indifferent to many offerings, I have yet to see a male BG that couldn't be caught off the nest, provided the fish and the bottom of the nest is visible, and the proper technique is employed. RES however, are often another story.

I don't advocate for pillaging a spawning colony, as removing too many large males can negatively impact a fishery. But the fact is, like many anglers I grew up doing just that.

My hands down favorite way to take bedding bluegills? A 6' ultralight spooled with 2lb test, and a size 8 popper, like what's used with a fly rod. Add a waxworm or two for added casting weight, approach the nesting site on your knees to avoid spooking them, and fish the outside perimeter. Dragging a frantic BG through the middle of the colony will certainly make your job much harder.

"Forget pounds and ounces, I'm figuring displacement!"

If we accept that: MBG(+)FGSF(=)HBG(F1)
And we surmise that: BG(>)HBG(F1) while GSF(<)HBG(F1)
Would it hold true that: HBG(F1)(+)AM500(x)q.d.(=)1.5lbGRWT?
PB answer: It depends.