What is topwater bite like in August? Are fish still willing to take poppers on the surface this time of year or should I stick to subsurface flies. I would like to get into smallies and maybe some pike on my trip.

Two things to remember for August. The first is light. During really bright conditions the baitfish can see really good, the predators know it...it is not conducive towards easily capturing food. So, low light...early AM, late PM, cloudy, drizzly, even thick weeds will put the odds in the predators favor. Also, big fish did not get that way by being dumb...they know that danger comes from below(pike!) and above(birds, otters, etc.).

The second is numbers: this is the "time 'o plenty". Make your offering really look like a struggling baitfish, frog, insect, bird, etc. They can pass up something that is slightly "wonky", because in a minute something else will come by.

No problem with a topwater bite....your window of opportunity might not be very large, just be on the water and ready at the best times. Thick weeds will/can extent the times, because it is shade...cover(makes them a better predator). Oh, the fish will probably be closer to the boat, so a big deal on keeping canoe noise down....and if ya catch a hog, post a pic!!

After a day or so on the water, the pattern will emerge...poppers 'til sun up, Dalhberg Diver 'til fully light, then off to a deep rocky shore to toss weighted Clousers...whatever! Just be on the water during low light, be quiet...try not to "force" a bite, they will show you how to entice them.