In episode #4 of AnglingBuzz TV, we’re breaking down big water smallmouth bass with brown bass expert James Lindner. Now’s the time when those hearty bronzebacks are heading up into the shallows, providing some exciting shallow water fishing opportunities.

Wind plays a significant role in smallmouth fishing on the Great Lakes. It can dramatically affect water temperature and fish movement. When the wind blows into bays and flats, it brings fish in. On the other hand, offshore winds will suck in cold water and push fish out.

Using Side Imaging to Locate Fish

One effective technique for finding smallmouth bass on the flats is using side imaging technology. By driving around with side imaging on, you can isolate the biggest boulders on the flats that the fish tend to gravitate towards. These large rocks serve as key spots where the fish will move in when they move up onto the flat. Spending time to locate these structure features is crucial for success.

When using side imaging, look for the largest boulders on the flats and mark them as waypoints. These waypoints will serve as reference points for casting and targeting the fish. Spend time driving around the flats, identifying the best spots with the biggest rocks. Once you have located these key areas, you can cast right through those coordinates and increase your chances of catching smallmouth bass.

Targeting Subtle Depressions

In addition to targeting the large boulders, it’s also important to pay attention to subtle depressions on the flats. These depressions can be identified by their turquoise color, while the lighter spots are sandy-colored. Look for deeper depressions that appear more turquoise and pitch your bait into those locations. These depressions can often hold smallmouth bass and increase your chances of getting a bite.

Hotspots for Smallmouth Bass on the Great Lakes

While we are currently fishing on Grand Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan, there are several other hotspots for smallmouth bass around the Great Lakes. Some of these include:

• Lake Superior
• Chequamegon Bay
• Lake Michigan
• Sturgeon Bay in Door County Peninsula, including Washington Island
• Big Bay and Little Bay de Noc to the north of Lake Michigan
• Lake Huron, including Saginaw Bay
• Lake Erie, both eastern and western basins
• Lake Ontario, including Henderson Harbor and Chaumont Bay

Trophy Hunting for Big Smallmouth Bass

When it comes to trophy hunting for big smallmouth bass in the Great Lakes, the approach is quite different from largemouth bass fishing. While largemouth bass may require big swimbaits, heavy line, and baitcasters, trophy smallmouth bass can be targeted with spinning rods and tiny baits. It may seem odd, but using 2-inch to 3-inch baits is actually the norm for smallmouth fishing in clear water environments. Tubes, swimbaits, and little hair jigs are some of the popular bait choices.

The reason for using smaller baits is that the fish are just coming out of their wintering areas and can be a bit lethargic. A slow and subtle presentation is key to enticing these early season smallmouths. Cast your bait in front of them and retrieve it slowly. This method allows you to keep it simple and easy while still having a chance at landing a trophy-sized smallmouth bass.

Conclusion

Early season smallmouth bass fishing on the Great Lakes can be incredibly rewarding. By targeting the right areas, such as large shallow rock rubble and sand flats, and paying attention to wind patterns and water temperature, you can increase your chances of success. Utilizing side imaging technology to locate key spots and targeting subtle depressions on the flats can also improve your catch rate. Remember to keep your bait presentation slow and subtle, using smaller baits to entice the fish. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to have a successful early season smallmouth bass fishing trip on the Great Lakes.