Smallmouth Bass

Frankfort, Michigan, offers exceptional smallmouth bass fishing in the clear waters of Lake Michigan and the connected Betsie River. What makes this area special is the combination of deep, rocky structure in the lake and the river's current breaks, creating diverse habitats for smallies to thrive. The best time to target them is from late spring to early fall, with pre-spawn action heating up in May and consistent fishing continuing through October. Look for rocky points and drop-offs along the Lake Michigan shoreline. A local tip: focus on areas where the Betsie River flows into the lake, as these confluences often hold actively feeding bass. Launching from the Frankfort public boat launch provides easy access to both the lake and the river. Be aware of wind conditions on Lake Michigan, as it can change rapidly.