Smallmouth Bass

For smallmouth bass enthusiasts, Effie presents a unique opportunity to target these hard-fighting fish in a classic Northwoods setting. While not as abundant as largemouth in some lakes, smallmouth can be found in the clearer, rockier lakes and rivers in the area. Focus your efforts on areas with rocky shorelines, submerged boulders, and current breaks. The Big Fork River, for example, can offer excellent smallmouth fishing. Summer and early fall are ideal times to target smallmouth, as they become more active and aggressive. Topwater lures, crankbaits, and tubes are all effective choices. Many of the access points are better suited for smaller boats or canoes, allowing you to quietly navigate the rocky shorelines. A local tactic: focus on areas with crayfish, as smallmouth love to feed on them. Also, be aware that the smallmouth in these northern waters can be incredibly strong fighters, so be prepared for a battle. They may not be as large as some southern smallmouth, but they make up for it in sheer tenacity.