Sizzling Summertime Smallmouth

By Scott Walker, copyright 1998

Don't let the high mercury mark fool you. For those of you who don't know, late summer can be some of the most exciting smallmouth fishing of the year. In this article I'll try to pass on some of my knowledge about fishing this time period nd what to expect. Most of what I mention will relate to creek and small rivers, because that's where I spend most of my time.

One of the best things about fishing rivers and streams is when the lake fishing slows down, stream fishing heats up. The biggest reason for this oxygen level. With a flowing body of water, a lot of oxygen is aerated through the water as it passes through riffles and rapids, in turn keeping fish more active. Even though smallmouth is considered a cool water fish, they seem to get more active and aggressive when the water heats up.

First, let's talk about where you can expect to find the fish. Because of the high oxygen levels below the riffles. This would be one of the first places you will want to look. There ar a couple ways to approach this area. If wade fishing, as long as you are not trespassing, the best way would be to walk up stream slowly and quietly on the bank. When you get to where you want to start fishing, cast from the bank to as many likely spots as possible.

Once you've caught the fish from that area, you can then get in the water and start slowly working you way to the areas you couldn't reach from shore. Avoid making too much commotion, these fish could be real shallow, sometimes in a foot of water, and if the water is clear, they will be easily spooked. If you are wading downstream, try staying on the bank to avoid stirring up the water. If you are in a canoe either get out above the riffle and wade fish before going through or stop the canoe in the riffle and cast downstream into the hole.

You can expect to find some fish right in the fast water, but most will be close to it in holding areas behind rocks and logs. Also look for them along shady banks and in the eddy areas, too. Bigger fish can be found in some of these shallow areas, but you may have to probe some of the deeper water in the hole. Look for big rocks (or boulder) areas with current and slick logs along the bank. Another area you have to hit is the tail of the pols, in the area just before the riffle. This could be good all day long.

A lot f the time the brownies will be in packs. I'm not sure why this is. One thing is for sure, though, this can make for some great fun. When one of these fish gets hooked, the whole bunch will be frantically trying to get to the bait. It looks like a bunch of piranhas. If you have a partner you can take advantage of this. Simply have you partner toss a grub or anything that will get to the fish, and most of the time you'll get a double. A lot of the time there will be a big fish in the group. Try it sometime.

One thing I should mention, that I can't really explain, is that in late summer fish can be very active in the middle of the day. Even in shallow water, in bright sunlight. Usually this is in or near fast water.

As far as lures, a 1/8 or _ oz. Buzzbait in white or chartreuse or a combination of the two, is my favorite summertime lure. This ait will work all day long. Even in shallow water in the middle of the day. Just remember to keep your cast far out in front of you, especially in clear, shallow, narrow streams. Sometimes this will mean casting down stream and retrieving up. Trust me, this works great. Try it, you'll like it and don't be afraid to throw it over logs into tree tops. This is where some of the bigger fish will be and the buzzbait usually will not snag.

Any other type of top water will work, too. Like the Tiny Torpedo, Spooks, Chugbugs and Pop-Rs. If a regular, slow retrieve won't work, try working them fast and hold on. All other smallmouth lures will work well, too, but the above mentioned are my favorites. My partners and I have had a few ``100 fish" days using these lures.

To enjoy this fast, furious action you have to stay comfortable and hydrated. There are a few things I have found that help. First, get a good hat. Some of the hats made for fishing might look a little funny, but they make a big difference. When it comes to staying cool and keeping the sun off your face, ears and neck. Something as simple as dipping you hat in the water and putting it back on your head can make a big difference.

A good pair of polarized sunglasses will not only relieve the suns rays, but help in spotting structure and fish. As far as clothing, there are some super materials on the market, on is Supplex. It's very light and cool, and it dries in minutes. Make sure you get subtle colors. Something that will not spook the fish in clear water areas; gray and tan are both good.

Sometimes even all this is not good enough when the temp is 90+ degrees. When you start to get so hot you can't stand it, hop in the river and just soak awhile. This will give you a second wind. Wear sunscreen and lip protection. These could protect you from a bad case or sunburn and maybe even skin cancer.

Last, make sure you drink plenty of water. You can dehydrate quite easily in a short time.

That about does it. Don't let the heat keep you in the air conditioning. Get out there and enjoy some of the best fishing of the year. - Good Fishing!

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