Jigs & Softbaits for Fall Walleyes and Smallmouths

by

With unusually warm weather still prevailing this fall, casting jigheads tipped with large soft plastics is still producing walleyes and smallmouths in weedbeds.

Deep Jigging for Fall Walleye and Smallmouth

In this article, we will explore the exciting technique of deep jigging for fall walleye and smallmouth bass. This method has proven to be highly effective in catching big bass, nice-sized walleyes, and even Magnum whities. Join me as we delve into the details of this thrilling fishing activity.

The Hot Bite

One thing I can tell you is that the bite is pretty hot right now. Anglers have been experiencing success with various fish species, including big bass, nice-sized walleyes, and Magnum whities. It’s truly a favorite activity of mine, especially on such beautiful days like today. The solitude of being out on the water with no other human beings around is simply mind-boggling.

The Importance of Boat Control

When it comes to deep jigging, boat control is crucial. How you present your baits and the relative speed of your drift can make all the difference in your success. With the help of modern technology like mapping, it has become easier to locate fish quickly and efficiently. By using a map with a gradient, you can identify deep water areas, which is where many of these fish are currently residing.

Drifting Technique

To maximize your chances of catching fish, it’s important to have good boat control. One effective technique is to pull up on the top side of a hump or structure and then do a controlled drift down its length. This allows you to present your baits in a natural and enticing manner. The key is to maintain bottom contact throughout the drift. The fish we are targeting are usually close to the bottom, so it’s crucial to keep your bait at the right depth.

Maintaining Bottom Contact

To ensure that you are maintaining bottom contact, it’s important to control your drift speed. Generally, a speed below 0.7 is ideal. You can use your trolling motor to check your speed and make adjustments as needed. If you find that you’re moving too fast and not hitting the bottom, you’re likely not going to catch the fish you’re after. The goal is to have your bait shooting off the bottom, hitting it, and then shooting off again. This action is what entices the fish to strike.

The Excitement of Instantaneous Catches

One of the most thrilling aspects of deep jigging is the almost instantaneous catches you can experience. When you find an active spot with fish, they often bite as soon as your bait hits the water. It’s like a game of cat and mouse, with the fish eagerly taking the bait. The excitement of feeling that sudden tug on your line and reeling in a fish is truly exhilarating.

Fall Fishing in Canadian Lakes

Fall fishing in Canadian lakes is an absolute delight. The stunning beauty of the surroundings combined with the abundance of fish make for a memorable experience. Even just a couple of hours on the water can result in catching “oodles and oodles” of fish, as the angler in the video describes. The lack of other human beings on the lake adds to the sense of awe and amazement.

Conclusion

Deep jigging for fall walleye and smallmouth bass is an exciting and effective fishing technique. By mastering boat control and maintaining bottom contact, anglers can increase their chances of success. The thrill of instantaneous catches and the beauty of fall fishing in Canadian lakes make this activity truly special. So, if you’re a fishing enthusiast looking to catch a lot of fish, take advantage of the hot bite and give deep jigging a try.

You May Also Like

Northland