Smallmouth bass top the list for excitement

There is a sharp tug on the line, followed by a strong pull as the fish moves off. You raise the rod tip and set the hook and are greeted with a powerful dive, some slashing runs, and a series of catapulting leaps from the water. As you raise up your rod and check the drag, the scene is repeated as an acrobatic smallmouth bass puts on a display of power and aerial shows. Welcome to the world of smallmouth bass fishing.

During our annual excursions to the St. Lawrence there are usually bass anglers from all over, including Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Ohio, spending time for the opening of bass season.

Even though I enjoy fishing for a lot of different species, there are three that are in a class by themselves when it comes to excitement and fighting ability: king salmon, steelhead trout, and smallmouth bass. There are lots of other anglers who agree with me.

In many waters both largemouth and smallmouth bass may be found, although for most

of the season they are found in different habitats. While largemouth are usually found in relatively shallow water in weedy or other thick cover, the smallmouths prefer cooler temperatures and are commonly found in rocky habitat, often in deeper water.

Fortunately for New York anglers, smallmouth bass are widespread and there is a long season. From the third Saturday in June until November 30. In much of the state there is an early season “catch and release” season only.

However, in Jefferson, St. Lawrence, Hamilton, and Franklin counties there is no catch and release season. This is because in the northern areas with colder water the bass spawn later. Populations in Lake Ontario, St. Lawrence River and elsewhere are suffering from the predation of round gobies which are a serious threat to the nests.

Some avid bass anglers want to open these areas, but they are disregarding scientific evidence. That idea is definitely unpopular with local sportsmen in that area. When I talked to DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos this spring he assured me that they are not going to open the north country to pre-season catch and release. Popular methods of fishing for smallmouth bass include using live bait and drifting across shoals or rocky areas. Minnows are the bait of choice now, later in the summer crayfish work well. When the bass are in relatively shallow water lures including Mepps spinners, stickbaits, crankbaits, or jigs tipped with white plastic grubs all work well. I have also caught many on tube jigs or sinking worms rigged wacky style. When they are deep in late summer you should switch to jigs or jigging spoons as well as drop shot rigs or live bait.

The St. Lawrence River and Oneida Lake are two of the more popular areas for smallmouth bass, but they can be found in many waters. When fishing live bait on big rivers with powerful currents like the St. Lawrence, it is important to use enough weight to get your bait down near the bottom and take the slack or bow out of your line so you can feel the hit.

Some of the popular waters in central New York include Lake Delta, Canadarago Lake, or Whitney Point Reservoir. Many of the Finger Lakes including Seneca and Cayuga Lake have good populations of smallmouths. Those who prefer stream or river fishing should consider lower Chenango River, Mohawk River, lower Fish Creek, Oswego River, Black River, or the estuary of the Salmon River.

Some of the top Adirondack bass waters include the Fulton Chain with smallmouths in Third, Fourth, Seventh, and Eighth Lake. Raquette Lake, Lake George, Indian Lake, Lake Eaton, Long Lake, Tupper, and Saranac Chain all provide excellent smallmouth fishing. Blue Mountain Lake and its connecting lakes of Eagle and Utowanah have both smallmouth and largemouth.

Despite their strength and exciting fight, you do not want to use “meat-stick” rods and heavy line when smallmouth bass fishing. In the clear water they will shy away from too heavy line and you will not usually have to fight the weeds like you often have to do when fishing for largemouth. A good graphite rod in medium-light weight will allow you to fight the fish and enjoy the action. Once a smallmouth bass puts on a drag-burning run on the end of your line and goes cartwheeling across the water, the fish won’t be the only thing “hooked!”

SHORT CASTS

Canadian Border May Open There is word that the Canadian border may open sometime in August. Prime Minister Trudeau indicated that they would allow vaccinated Americans to enter starting August 9. Fishermen are particularly happy since they were hoping for access to Canadian fishing in the Thousand Islands where the border and prime spots follow an irregular pattern. No word yet on allowing Canadians into the US. Some people blame the US Customs officials or the militaristic I.C.E, agents who supposedly want to keep Canadians out, probably to prevent them from infiltrating American life with poutine, socialized medicine, and curling.

Roger Fulton Books “We explored it so you can enjoy it.” That is the motto of the popular pocket guidebooks by noted outdoorsman, Roger Fulton. After retiring from a career in law enforcement, Roger has spent his time exploring hiking, biking, and historical spots of interest. His guidebooks are based on experience and careful research so the casual traveler can find easy to moderate adventures that are also interesting while hiking or biking. Check his website Rogerfulton.com for the complete list and descriptions.

Smoked Salmon Stuffed Mushrooms For enjoying time on the deck this summer after a successful salmon fishing trip here is a great snack. This serves three to four people so adjust the recipe accordingly. Ingredients: 4 oz. smoked salmon, 10-12 large fresh mushrooms, 6 oz softened cream cheese, 1 tbsp. sour cream, ½ onion sautéed until soft, Parmesan cheese.

Directions: Pull stems from mushrooms and clean. Combine cream cheese, sour cream, smoked salmon and onion. Add 2 tbsp. parmesan cheese, fill mushroom caps with cheese mixture, place in shallow baking pan. Sprinkle tops with more parmesan cheese, place under broiler for 3 — 5 minutes or until tops begin to brown.

Long Lake Challenge The Town of Long Lake is a pleasant spot in the central Adirondacks with lots of fun things to do. Now they have an interesting challenge for people of all abilties to achieve a variety of patches. They have a square that looks like a Bingo card but is different in that each row has a mixture of 24 interesting and fun activities. Each row you complete earns you a different patch. They include paddling, boating, hiking, mountain climbing, visiting scenic spots, and some unusual things. Check this out at mylonglake. com and spend time there this summer.