Smallmouth Bass

If you're looking for hard-fighting smallmouth bass in West Michigan, Ravenna offers some under-the-radar opportunities. The Muskegon River, which flows nearby, is a prime location. Focus your efforts on areas with rocky bottoms, submerged logs, and current breaks. Late spring and early fall are generally the most productive times, as the water temperatures are ideal for bass activity. For bank access, try the public access sites along the river near Ravenna. A local tip: Smallmouth in this stretch of the Muskegon can be surprisingly line-shy, so consider using fluorocarbon leaders. Also, be prepared to adjust your lure presentation based on water clarity; on clear days, natural-colored baits often outperform brighter options. The smallmouth in the Muskegon are known for their aggressive strikes, so hold on tight!