Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass offer some of the best fishing when things get hot. July and August fishing for our resident Smallies in the Manistee River is a great way to spend a day. Whether you are an angler looking to improve your skills or you’re an advanced fly fisherman looking for fun, then smallmouth fishing is for you. Watching fish eat off the surface or attack flashy streamers with rubber legs and marabou - things they just can’t resist either in a dry fly/popper or streamer - is just plain cool.
Manistee River Smallie
I like to guide on various sections of the Manistee based on conditions. Along with the occasional canoe that goes by, you will enjoy a scenic float along a beautiful section of river pretty much to yourself and the fish.
Fishing sink-tip fly lines and a streamer is usually the most effective method, but there are days when they prefer it on top. Face it – fishing on the surface is a favorite for just about anyone that fly fishes. Sometimes they sip them and other times they explode on top of it – so much for peacefulness! The Smallie’s wavering ways of choosing what and what-not to eat is part of the fun.
Those anglers looking for smallmouth on a flats setting should consider carp fishing. While stalking the
“Golden Bones” of the bay, the smallmouth often provide a shot at Bronzeback/River Smallie
some nice fish.
Ted Kraimer
Current Works, LLC
PO Box 333
Traverse City, MI 49685
231-883-8156