Smallmouth Bass

If you're looking for some hard-fighting smallmouth bass, the Ironton, Minnesota area offers some excellent opportunities. The Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, with its numerous mine pit lakes, is the key to this fishery. These deep, clear lakes hold surprisingly good populations of smallies. The unique structure of the old mine pits, with steep drop-offs and submerged timber, provides ideal habitat. Spring and fall are prime times, as the water temperatures are more favorable and the fish are actively feeding. Focus on areas near rocky points and submerged structure. A local tip: polarized sunglasses are essential for spotting submerged rock piles and weed edges. Also, be aware that some of the lakes require a state park permit for access. The smallmouth in these lakes tend to be aggressive, so don't be afraid to use reaction baits like crankbaits and spinnerbaits, especially in stained water. For clearer water, try tubes or drop-shot rigs.