• Shopping Cart Shopping Cart
    0Shopping Cart
Northern Michigan | Guide Service | Steelhead Fishing
  • Link to Instagram
  • Link to Youtube
  • Link to Facebook
  • Link to Mail
  • FISHING REPORT
    • Manistee River below Tippy
    • Upper Manistee River Trout
    • Pere Marquette Report
    • Northern Michigan Smallmouth Bass
  • SPECIES
    • Steelhead
    • Smallmouth Bass
    • Brown Trout
  • ABOUT US
    • Fishing Guides
      • Jon Ray
      • Ed McCoy
      • Jeff Topp
      • Remembering Steve Pels
    • Pricing
    • Policies
  • BLOG
  • HOSTED TRIPS
  • SHOP
    • Mangled Fly Store
    • Trout Flies
    • Clothing & Gear
    • Hats & Beanies
    • Stickers
    • View Your Cart
  • CONTACT
    • Schedule a Trip!
    • Call 231-631-5701
  • Click to open the search input field Click to open the search input field Search
  • Menu Menu

There is a wide range of gamefish species that thrive in warm water. Among these, smallmouth bass and northern pike stand out as noteworthy choices. Smallmouth bass are particularly favored by anglers, and Northern Michigan is known for its excellent smallmouth fishing. As early as April and lasting welling into October when the conditions are best with warm and clear water.

The smallmouth bass fishing near Traverse City, MI offers an incredible experience for anglers of all levels. The crystal-clear waters and exceptional visibility make it possible to witness these trophy bronzebacks in action. Whether it’s witnessing a 4-7 pound smallmouth striking from over 60 feet away or simply enjoying the beauty of the surroundings, the thrill never fades. So, if you’re a fishing enthusiast looking for an unforgettable adventure, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the smallmouth bass fishing near Traverse City. Plan your trip and get ready for an exhilarating experience on the water.

Mangled Fly guides enjoy chasing smallmouth bass both with fly rods and light spinning tackle. Due to the ultra-clear water, fly anglers should be at least at an intermediate level and have some knowledge of how to double haul. Longer casts are required, and fishing for smallmouth in northern Michigan is very similar to saltwater angling. Long casts and handling the wind are common occurrences. Mangled Fly guides always carry a conventional spinning gear set up or two if the wind becomes too challenging to handle.

Northern Michigan Smallmouth Bass Articles

Northern Michigan Smallmouth Bass
May 26, 2025/by Jon Ray

Northern Michigan Smallmouth Bass

Conditions Matter
April 13, 2024/by Ed McCoy

Conditions Matter

Best Time to fish Grand Traverse Bay for Smallmouth Bass
March 24, 2024/by Jon Ray

Grand Traverse Bay Smallmouth Bass Fishing

smallmouth bass
October 7, 2023/by Jon Ray

Late Summer or Early Fall Smallmouth

Best Time to fish Grand Traverse Bay for Smallmouth Bass

Booking Smallmouth Trips on Traverse Bay

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Grand Traverse Bay Smallmouth Bass

Latest by Mangled Fly

  • Upper Manistee River Trout Fishing July 4, 2025
  • Northern Michigan Smallmouth Bass May 26, 2025
  • Manistee River Steelhead Report below Tippy Dam April 21, 2025

Follow Mangled Fly YouTube

  • TIPPY DAM REPORT
  • MANISTEE TROUT REPORT
  • SMALLMOUTH BASS REPORT
  • SHOP
  • CONTACT
  • BOOKING A TRIP
  • PRICING
© Copyright - Mangled Fly- Northern Michigan Fly Fishing

webdesign by leelanau.com
Scroll to top Scroll to top Scroll to top