Smallmouth Bass

Aitkin, Minnesota, provides access to a wealth of smallmouth bass fishing opportunities in its many rivers and lakes. The Mississippi River, which flows through the area, holds a healthy population of smallmouth, particularly in the rocky stretches and around submerged structure. Additionally, several of the smaller lakes in the area offer excellent smallmouth fishing, often with less fishing pressure than larger, more well-known destinations. The prime time for smallmouth in Aitkin is during the pre-spawn (late May-early June) and again in the fall (September-October). Focus your efforts around rocky points, submerged timber, and current breaks. A local tip: try fishing topwater lures early in the morning or late in the evening for explosive strikes. The smallmouth in this region are known for their aggressive nature and hard-fighting ability. Look for fish in the 1-3 pound range, with the occasional larger specimen. Public access to the Mississippi River is available at numerous locations, and many of the smaller lakes have public boat ramps.