Smallmouth Bass

La Crosse, Wisconsin, nestled on the Mississippi River and its backwaters, provides exceptional smallmouth bass fishing. The area's complex network of channels, sloughs, and rocky shorelines creates ideal habitat for these hard-fighting fish. Prime time is late spring through fall. As the water warms in late May and June, smallies move into shallower areas to spawn, becoming aggressive targets. Focus on areas with current breaks, submerged timber, and rocky points. A great access point is the public boat launch at Pettibone Park, giving you access to both the main channel and backwater sloughs. Remember that the Mississippi's water levels can fluctuate dramatically, so check conditions before heading out. Local smallmouth are known for their robust size and aggressive strikes, making for a memorable angling experience.