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Savage Voyageur
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I also think it is a week too early. They are done spawning but will be on their beds.
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boondock
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It's really water temp dependent, they spawn when the water temps hit about 60°, they start staging at about 55°.
Cast up near shore and work around the lake/islands.
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jeroldharter
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Early to mid-June is the best time. If too early, then the water temp is still too cold and the fish are deeper (not ideal). If that is the case, then look for shallower, darker lakes that warm up faster. A bit later in the period, the converse is true.
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Andrew100
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Thanks! Are there areas or structure we should target for smallies that are pre-spawn?
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CrookedPaddler1
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I would look for staging areas that are deeper water (12-15') near some sandy or rocky shallow areas.
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vandolomeiu
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I would think that this year with the "Spring" we have had in the upper midwest,
that you might be a tad early for the spawn but don't neglect to fish topwater shallow early morning or late evening. Speaking of the spawn, I do not target spawning fish. I fish while they are spawning and I'm sure I catch nesting fish but I won't cast at nests. I have had some success in using Murdich Minnows in clear water when Smallmouth hesitate to hit topwater.
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Quacker1
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would the second week of June or a little later be a better time for top water action. I plan to come up around that time this year.
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CrookedPaddler1
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Based on my experience, I think you will be about a week early to hit things in the hot spawning period. Although if you plan your trip to be in shallower lakes that warm up a little quicker, you might have a chance to hit some nice top water action.
I would plan on fishing pre-spawn smallies that are probably sitting in 12'-15' feet of water and have had really nice luck with clauser minnows and wolly buggers.
I do a spring trip every year and I try and time my trip to be on the water sometime around the 10th of June. Every year is a little different, and you really need a trio of things to happen to get the top notch topwater action. Water Temp, Air Temp, and Sunshine!
Good luck on your trip!
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Andrew100
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Headed to Seagull-Alpine-Jasper area June 1 and am hoping to get some nice smallies. I've heard you can catch them on topwater all day this time of year..is that true? Also what are the best flies for pre-spawn and postspawn bass?
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