Prime Time October Bass
Throughout October, smallmouth bass are on the prowl and on the bite. Fishing locations and tactics change, however, from peak fall colors to Halloween.
October is a month that holds a special place in my heart when it comes to fishing. If I had to choose just one month out of the year to fish, it would undoubtedly be October. Living in Wisconsin, Minnesota, or the North and South Dakota regions, October is the prime time for catching big, trophy-sized fish. Currently, I find myself fishing in Suami, and let me tell you, this is the time to reel in those giant smallmouth bass.
The Best Time for Trophy Fish
During the month of October, you have the opportunity to catch the biggest fish of the year. Just take a look at the monster I recently caught – it must have been pushing five and a half, maybe even five and three-quarters pounds. What a beast! The presentation for catching these trophy fish is actually quite simple, depending on the type of lake you’re fishing in.
Shallow Water Fishing
If you’re on a lake with a lot of shallow fish, I highly recommend using a spinnerbait or a jerkbait like a Ned Rig or a Shadow Rap. These lures are perfect for enticing the active fish in shallow waters. The erratic movements of the spinnerbait or the realistic action of the jerkbait can trigger aggressive strikes from the fish.
Finicky Fish
However, if the fish are a bit more finicky and not as active, you’ll need to adjust your approach. In this case, I suggest using a swimming grub or a hair jig. These lures can be fished a bit deeper and have a more subtle action that can entice even the most hesitant fish to bite.
Deeper Water Situations
And if the fish are really touchy and you’re fishing in deeper water situations, it’s time to break out the tube baits or the drop shot rigs. These setups allow you to present your bait right in front of the fish’s face, enticing them to strike. A tube bait on a football head jig or a drop shot rig with a twin tail bait can be deadly in these situations.
The Changing Landscape of October Fishing
The month of October brings about significant changes in our four-state area. From the beginning of the month to the end, a lot can change in just 30 days. But one thing remains constant – it’s the best time of year to go after trophy fish. This holds true not just for smallmouth bass, but also for other species like crappies, northerns, and even big muskies.
So, while many people are thinking about hunting during this time of year, I encourage you to start thinking about fishing. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to catch the trophy of a lifetime. Head out to our lakes, rivers, and reservoirs and experience the thrill of reeling in those big fish. October is the month to make it happen.
