Alright, let’s talk about catching them smallmouth in the fall, down by the river, you know? Fall river smallmouth fishing, that’s what the young folks call it. I just call it fishin’, but whatever.
Now, you wanna find these fish, you gotta know where they hang out. Them dams, they got deep water, see? But the fish ain’t right in the strong current. They like it a bit calmer, off to the side, you know? Like them little points stickin’ out, or a big ol’ tree fell down in the water. Big fish, they like them spots.
Best Spots to Find ‘Em
- Deep water near dams, but not in the main current.
- Isolated points jutting out into the river.
- Downed trees and logs in the water.
When the water gets cold, them fish, they get kinda picky. Best thing, I tell ya, is live bait. Worms, minnows, that kinda stuff. Works every time. But if you ain’t got live bait, them plastic things work too. The young folks, they got all sorts of fancy names for ‘em. Pulse R this, Fluke that. I just use what works, you know?
Them crankbaits, they work good too, but mostly later in the day, or when it’s gettin’ dark. And them stick baits and jerk baits, they catch all sorts of fish, not just smallmouth. Been catchin’ fish with them Rapala things for years, they still work good.
What Bait to Use
- Live bait is the best in cold water (worms, minnows).
- Plastic baits also work well (like the Pulse R or Fluke).
- Crankbaits are good in the evening or at night.
- Wooden stick baits and suspending jerk baits (like Rapala) are also effective.
Now, when they talk about “fast fall fishing,” they mean that first bit of fall, when the water’s still kinda warm, but the food’s gettin’ scarce. That’s when them fish are hungry, see? They gotta fatten up for winter. Water’s gotta be above 57 degrees, or somethin’ like that. I don’t use no fancy thermometers, I just stick my hand in the water, if it feels alright, it’s alright.
When is the Best Time
“Fast fall fishing” is when the water is still relatively warm (above 57 degrees) and food sources are starting to decline. This is when smallmouth are actively feeding.
Fishin’ in the fall, it ain’t always easy. The weather can be tricky, and the fish can be moody. But if you know where to look, and what to use, you can catch some good fish. Just gotta be patient, you know? And don’t forget to bring a warm jacket, it gets cold by that river.
Tips for Fall Smallmouth Fishing
Be patient and persistent. Fall fishing can be challenging, but rewarding.
Dress warmly, as the weather can get cold quickly.
Experiment with different baits and techniques until you find what works.
So, there you have it. Some good ol’ advice for fall river smallmouth fishing. Ain’t nothin’ fancy, just plain fishin’ sense. Go on down to the river, cast a line, and see what you can catch. Good luck, and don’t fall in!
Tags: [fall river fishing, smallmouth bass, fall fishing, fishing tips, live bait, plastic baits, crankbaits, jerk baits, cold water fishing]