Smallmouth Bass

Targeting Smallmouth Bass around Mackinac Island means exploring the rocky shorelines and submerged structure of the Great Lakes. This location offers clear, cool waters and a diverse habitat that Smallmouth love. The best time to fish for them is during the late spring and early summer, around their spawning season, and again in the fall when they actively feed before winter. Look for rocky points, drop-offs, and weed edges. Casting crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics like tube baits and craw imitations are all effective. Polarized sunglasses are essential for spotting fish and structure in the clear water. A local tip: try fishing the waters around Arch Rock, a well-known landmark, where the rocky bottom holds plenty of Smallmouth. Be mindful of the wind, as conditions on the Great Lakes can change quickly.