Northern Michigan Smallmouth Bass

Northern Michigan Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass fishing season in Northern Michigan for Mangled Fly guides has just started.  We have been out on the inland lakes and finding most lakes some where near 50 degrees.  Temperatures can range from 44-52 depending on which lake you venture out too, but most lakes with some sort of creek or small stream running into them are running warmer.

Pre Spawn Smallmouth

 

This is prime pre-spawn smallmouth season, and without question, one of the best times of year to hook into a true trophy — a smallmouth weighing 5 pounds or more. Over the next four weeks, conditions are especially ideal for fly fishing for smallmouth, making this a standout stretch for anglers looking to throw big flies and target aggressive fish.

Here in Northern Michigan, we’re fortunate to have an abundance of crystal-clear lakes, but recent runoff has added just enough color to some of our best smallmouth waters. That slight stain can be the perfect ingredient, giving fish a little more cover and making them more willing to chase down a meal. It’s the perfect setup for casting a fly rod and stripping big streamers, especially in areas where bass are staging ahead of the spawn and feeding heavily. If you’ve been waiting for the right window to chase quality smallmouth, this is it.

Booking a Smallmouth Trip

Interested in booking a Smallmouth Bass Trip on light tackle or fly gear, drop us a message via email, or text/call us directly 231-631-5701.

Jon Ray