We're going in at Seagull on the 21st and, looking at the trip reports posted here, I'm growing concerned about hitting the post spawn for smallies. So, I have two questions:
1. Any tips on how to fish the post spawn?
2. Am I worring for no reason?

Thanks, Scott

It's the best time to fish them. Nearshore and offshore reefs with large boulders. The topwater bite should be good also.

Regardless of time of year we always start shallow, casting top-waters or tubes. If that don't pan out we usually find them at the first major drop...say where it drops from 2-3' down to about 10'. Your timing I'm guessing they'll be there, at the first major drop to deeper water. Honestly, the only time I've ever had to fish deeper for smallies was on rivers real late in fall.

They are not all done..........

You will find prespawn, spawn and postspawn, I suspect.

Those fish that are post spawn will be just coming out of their "resting period" and will be hammering pretty much anything that moves.

Leadin banks that LEAD to the spawning grounds are also the post spawn holding areas. They won't move too far from that this time of year, and will not start moving to summer staging areas for a few more weeks I think. that being said, the points, and deep cuts leading to where you'd normally fish for spawning bass should hold good numbers of "resting" fish. They may not be active but will EAT if given the opportunity. Those resting fish will eventually eat, and that is when you can pound on them.

Pay attention to where you're fishing and you will more than likely find a decent pattern that should hold for the stable days you fish.

HAVE FUN......

Later,

Geo

Thanks guys, good to know that they'll be in all phases of the spawn. Our trip is just 4 nights so I was concerned on hitting that " resting period" I've read about. A couple in our group are fly fishermen and are hoping for some fabled top water action on their first trip to the Bwca. We'll be working at it and I'll post a report when we return.- Scott

Don't know if it helps, but I just got back from a trip last week and the smallies were in shallow. Caught them right off shore in 4 to 6 feet of water. Slip bobbers and leeches.