Smallmouth Bass

While largemouth bass tend to steal the show in the Denham, Minnesota, area, there are opportunities to target smallmouth bass as well. Focus your efforts on the clearer, rockier lakes in the region, as well as sections of the Willow River that have more current and rocky structure. Spring and fall are the best times to target smallmouth. Look for them near rocky points, submerged boulders, and current breaks. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tubes are all effective lures. A practical tip: Pay attention to water clarity. Smallmouth prefer clearer water, so target lakes that haven't been affected by recent rains. Some of the less-traveled lakes require a bit of a hike to access, but the reward can be less fishing pressure and more aggressive smallmouth. Expect to find smallmouth in the 1-3 pound range, with the occasional larger fish possible.