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Never Too Hot for Smallmouth
Written By: Chris Wilkes - The Highland Hiker | Issue: 2017/08 - August
In the summer months, trout fishing can be pretty slow.
Warmer water temperatures and lower water levels cause the trout to expend less energy swimming and feeding. This means fewer strikes on less-than-perfect presentation and much more challenging fishing overall, which is why a lot of anglers during this time of year turn their attention to Smallmouth Bass.
Smallmouth fishing can be a really fun alternative to trout fishing in the summer months. First off, not a lot of people even realize this is an option when planning a fishing trip. That means fewer people at rivers with Smallmouth in them. Sometimes you could even get almost a mile stretch all to yourself.
The other thing is that while warmer temps cause the trout to lay low, smallmouth bass seem to feed more the hotter it gets. Smallmouth Bass are pound for pound one of the hardest fighting fish on the Eastern Seaboard and, unlike trout who may take and release a fly before you ever feel it on the line, Smallmouth hit your fly hard and fight right up until you get them in the net. Anglers fishing for Smallmouth will see explosive top water strikes and will also get to hone their streamer and popper fishing skills. Make sure to bring plenty of Couser minnows along with those poppers to make your trip as fruitful as possible.
When looking for Smallmouth Bass in the Little Tennessee or Tuckaseegee rivers, you’ll want to concentrate on casting near the rocks, woody debris, logs, overhung banks, or grass ledges.
Anyone wanting to take a smallmouth trip before fall gets here can contact Chris or Andrew at the Highland Hiker and get in some fun fishing before the trout get active again.
