Smallmouth Bass

While Gonvick, Minnesota, isn't necessarily known as a smallmouth bass mecca, there are definitely opportunities to tangle with these hard-fighting fish in the surrounding area. Focus your search on the rivers and larger lakes that feed into the Red Lake River system. These waterways often hold rocky structure and current breaks, ideal for smallmouth. The best time to target them is from late spring after the spawn through the early fall. Look for rocky points, submerged timber, and current seams. A practical tip for fishing smallies near Gonvick: access to some of the prime river stretches can be tricky. Consider using a kayak or canoe to reach more remote and less pressured areas. Also, pay attention to water levels and clarity. Smallmouth prefer clear, flowing water, so target areas where these conditions are present. The smallmouth population here isn't huge, but the fish that are present are often scrappy and aggressive, making for an exciting fishing experience.