%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F1338%2Fimages%2Fon_target_fishing_guide_service-03.png&w=1200&q=100)
Caught a trophy smallmouth bass River Fishing in
Smallmouth Bass River Fishing in Stanwood
4.9
20 Reviews
- 5
95% - 4
0% - 35%
- 20%
- 10%
%2F%2Fusers%2F775bd0f8-66c5-4317-bd25-ae7395068ac2%2Fimages%2Fsmallmouth-bass-stanwood-fly-fishing-4027.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Micropterus dolomieu belongs to the order Perciformes and family Centrarchidae. It typically measures between 12 and 27 inches in length, with a weight range from 1 to 4 lbs. - Habitat includes lakes and rivers with rocky structure. - Popular gamefish known for aggressive fighting ability. - Feeds primarily on crayfish, minnows, and aquatic insects. - Prefers clear, cool water with moderate current.
Fishing Guide by Guide Matt Brejcha in August
Meet your Guide Matt Brejcha
- Full Time Professional Fishing Guide
Summary
Guide Matt Brejcha of On Target Fishing Guide Service on Friday August offers exceptional river fishing for smallmouth bass in Stanwood, Michigan. This 4-hour morning charter targets trophy smallmouth using proven techniques like drift fishing, bottom bouncing, and live bait rigging. The heated jet boat ensures comfort during cooler months, while Matt's local expertise maximizes your chances at landing aggressive river smallies. Perfect for anglers of all skill levels seeking hands-on guidance and Michigan's best bass fishing action.
Fishing Charter with Guide Matt Brejcha – Rates & Booking
Guide Matt Brejcha of On Target Fishing Guide Service on Friday August provides private river fishing charters targeting smallmouth bass and seasonal trout species. This 4-hour morning trip accommodates two anglers with optional third guest, departing at 7:00 am for prime early-day action. All essential gear included—rods, tackle, and bait—plus comfortable heated boat for year-round fishing. Licensed guide with extensive local knowledge ensures productive trips for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Book online or call for current rates and availability.
Highlights of Half Day Michigan River Brown Trout and Chinook Salmon Fishing Charter
Experience Michigan's scenic rivers aboard an 18/60 custom jet boat or drift boat, equipped with heating for comfortable cold-weather fishing. Matt specializes in drift fishing, bottom bouncing, and live bait techniques that consistently produce results on these productive waters. Recent trips have yielded impressive catches including 21-inch and 26-inch smallmouth bass, showcasing the quality fishing available in Stanwood's river system.
This charter offers hands-on instruction in proven local methods, making it ideal for anglers wanting to improve their river fishing skills while targeting trophy-sized smallmouth bass, brown trout, and seasonal Chinook salmon runs.
Local Species Insights: Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass thrive in Michigan's clear, rocky rivers where current breaks and structure provide ideal ambush points. These aggressive fighters prefer water temperatures between 60-75°F and actively feed on crayfish, minnows, and aquatic insects. In Stanwood's river system, smallmouth concentrate near boulder fields, fallen timber, and deep pools during summer months. Matt's expertise in reading water and selecting proper presentations consistently puts anglers on quality fish, with specimens regularly exceeding 20 inches in these productive waters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your charter includes all necessary fishing equipment, with Matt providing rods, reels, tackle, and fresh bait suited to current conditions. The heated boat ensures comfort during Michigan's cooler months, while the shallow-draft design accesses prime fishing spots larger boats cannot reach. Trips accommodate two anglers comfortably, with space for a third guest when requested. Departure times are scheduled to maximize fishing success, typically starting at dawn when smallmouth bass are most active and feeding aggressively.
Fishing in Michigan: Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) belongs to the Centrarchidae family within the order Perciformes. This bronze-backed fighter is renowned among anglers for its aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. Distinguished by its dark green to bronze coloration with vertical brown stripes, smallmouth bass feature red to brown eyes and two connected dorsal fins. In Stanwood waters this August, these river warriors provide exceptional sport fishing opportunities.
Smallmouth Bass Overview
Smallmouth bass are premier freshwater gamefish prized for their pound-for-pound fighting ability. They inhabit clear, rocky rivers and lakes throughout the Great Lakes region, with Michigan's waters producing some of the finest specimens. Anglers value them for their aggressive nature, spectacular jumps, and strong runs that test tackle and skill.
Smallmouth Bass Habitat and Distribution
These bass prefer rocky bottoms, boulder fields, and areas with moderate current in rivers and clear lakes. In Michigan's river systems near Stanwood, they concentrate around fallen timber, undercut banks, and deep pools adjacent to shallow feeding areas. They thrive in water temperatures between 60-75°F and require good water quality with adequate oxygen levels.
Smallmouth Bass Size and Weight
Typical smallmouth bass range from 12 to 27 inches in length, weighing between 1 to 4 pounds. Trophy specimens exceeding 20 inches are common in Michigan's productive waters, with exceptional fish reaching the upper size limits. The current Michigan state record stands as testament to the quality fishing available in these waters.
Smallmouth Bass Diet and Behavior
Smallmouth bass are opportunistic predators feeding on crayfish, minnows, aquatic insects, and small fish. They hunt actively during dawn and dusk, using ambush tactics near structure. During summer months, they move to deeper water during midday heat, returning to shallows for evening feeding. Their aggressive nature makes them excellent targets for various fishing techniques.
Smallmouth Bass Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in late spring when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. Males construct nests in shallow, rocky areas and aggressively defend them. During this period, they become extremely territorial and will strike lures out of aggression rather than hunger, making spring an exciting time for anglers.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Techniques
Effective methods include drift fishing with live bait, bottom bouncing with jigs, and casting spinnerbaits or crankbaits near structure. Tube jigs, soft plastic crawfish, and topwater lures produce excellent results. In August, anglers around Stanwood find success using crayfish patterns near rocky areas and drop-offs where these bass ambush prey.
Smallmouth Bass Is It Good to Eat?
Smallmouth bass offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. They're high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury. Popular cooking methods include grilling, baking, and pan-frying. Many anglers practice catch-and-release to preserve these valuable gamefish populations.
Smallmouth Bass Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for smallmouth bass?
A: Live crayfish, tube jigs, and soft plastic crawfish imitations are top producers. Spinnerbaits and crankbaits also work well in current.
Q: Where can I find smallmouth bass near Stanwood?
A: Look for rocky areas, fallen timber, and deep pools in the river system. Structure breaks and current edges are prime locations.
Q: Is smallmouth bass good to eat?
A: Yes, they provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. They're nutritious and versatile for cooking.
Q: When is the best time to catch smallmouth bass?
A: Early morning and evening hours during summer months. Spring and fall also offer excellent fishing when water temperatures are optimal.
Q: What size tackle should I use for smallmouth bass?
A: Medium to medium-heavy rods with 10-15 lb test line work well. Lighter tackle increases the fight but requires more skill to land larger fish.
Q: Do smallmouth bass fight harder than largemouth bass?
A: Yes, smallmouth bass are known for their superior fighting ability, often jumping and making strong runs that test angler skill and equipment.
More species you can explore on this trip
On Target Fishing Guide Service Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Fish comfortably from Matt's 18/60 custom jet boat, specifically designed for Michigan's river systems. The shallow-draft hull navigates rocky areas and tight spots where big smallmouth hide, while the built-in heater keeps you warm during early morning starts and cooler months. This setup allows access to prime fishing locations that larger boats simply can't reach, giving you the advantage on Stanwood's productive waters.
