Smallmouth Bass
Each summer, smallmouth bass ascend the Muskegon River to feed on prolific crayfish, steelhead and salmon smolts. Our clients readily see the fish in the clear water and watch them aggressively take the fly or crank baits – sometimes with two or more other smallmouth competing with the hooked fish to snatch away the bait.
We cope with the heat of summer by getting on the water shortly after sunrise. The air is cool, the fish active, and the atmosphere is unmatched. There is virtually no one is on the river, except for ospreys, eagles, herons, ducks, and deer. Our Muskegon River Guides quietly float the river while positioning our casting fishermen in the front and rear of the boat over promising lies and deep pools.
By late afternoon, that’s when the top water action really gets going! Buzz baits and top water lures make for some explosive strikes and big fish! Afternoon guided trips are the most gratifying and pleasant with the sun beginning to set and great top water action with surface lures and heart pounding strikes!
Smallmouth Bass on the Muskegon River are taken on streamers stripped with sink tip lines, and on poppers fished with floating lines. Light spinning tackle also makes for great fun! Running to four or five pounds, Muskegon River bronze backs are superbly conditioned and therefore fight hard and long. Fortunately, these fine sporting fish are beginning to get the attention they have long deserved.
In short, we cannot recommend these summer floats highly enough. This Muskegon River light tackle fishing experience is excellent in every way, comfortable temperatures, and great fishing! Give fly fishing for smallies a try, and you’ll be back for more. Michigan Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Michigan Smallmouth Bass are exceptional fighters on light tackle spinning gear. Pound for pound, no other fish fights harder than Smallmouth Bass.
