Smallmouth Bass

If you're chasing Smallmouth Bass in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Gladstone offers fantastic opportunities, particularly in and around Little Bay de Noc. This expansive bay, part of Lake Michigan, provides diverse habitat, from rocky shorelines and submerged timber to weedy flats, all holding smallies. The bite really heats up in late spring after the spawn, and continues strong through the summer months. Focus on areas with current, especially near the mouths of rivers and creeks flowing into the bay. Fall can also be productive as the fish feed heavily before winter. For shore access, try fishing around the Gladstone Sports Park or Van Cleve Park. Boaters will find several public launches along the bay. A local tip: Smallmouth in Little Bay de Noc tend to be structure-oriented, so dragging tubes or casting crankbaits along rocky bottoms can be very effective. Also, be prepared for wind, as the bay can get choppy.