Largemouth Bass

The Grand River, flowing right through Grand Rapids, offers surprisingly good Largemouth Bass fishing for an urban environment. While the river can be challenging due to its current and turbidity, savvy anglers consistently pull out quality bass. Focus on areas with slack water, such as back channels, eddies, and near submerged structure like fallen trees and bridge pilings. The best times to fish are spring and fall when the water temperatures are moderate. Summer can be productive early in the morning or late in the evening. Plastics like worms and creature baits are effective when fished slowly along the bottom. Crankbaits and spinnerbaits can also produce when retrieved near structure. Public access is available at several parks along the river, including Riverside Park and Grand River Park. Be aware of the river's fluctuating water levels, especially after heavy rains. A kayak or small boat can greatly improve your access to prime fishing spots.