Smallmouth Bass

Chasing smallmouth bass around Port Austin offers unique challenges and rewards. Situated on the tip of Michigan's thumb, the waters here are influenced by Lake Huron's vastness. Focus your efforts on the rocky nearshore areas and submerged structures that hold warmer water and attract baitfish. Spring can be phenomenal as smallies move shallow to spawn, but water temperatures are key. Look for areas with slightly warmer readings, even a degree or two can concentrate fish. During the summer, transition to deeper structure and points. A local tip: the breakwalls and harbor areas can hold surprising numbers of smallmouth, especially during periods of wind and wave action. Fall is another prime time as bass feed aggressively before winter. Pay close attention to forage – gobies are a major food source, so mimic their appearance and movement with your lures. Be prepared to adjust your depth and retrieve speed to match the prevailing conditions.