Smallies in ultra clear water??

[Niagaraguy]

I've been fishing the upper Niagara river from Buffalo too Niagara Falls and since the Canadian opener the water has been ultra clear. I'm talking 20 feet plus of visibility.I love fishing shallow 4'-12' throwing jerkbaits and rattle traps. I'm still catching a some fish early mornings (5;30 start) but once the sun up high all I'm getting is follows sometimes 3-4 smallies at a time. Anyone have any tips too convert the followers into eaters.

Thanks Rob

[royce]

I would try some small floating rapala's

Also, try some small popping lures.  I like the 2 inch poppers.  Some of the followers will not be able to stand it and some will blast it...

[Jigfishn10]

I've had success with drop shot rigged grubs, spinnerbaits with painted blades, any color blade, just make sure it's chartreuse and believe it or not, if the bite is really bad then I went to a #3 in-line spinner.

Hope this helps.

[Munkin]

I encounter this situation all the time here on Deep Creek Lake. Some of the coves you can see what side a coin is on in 35' of water. The followers are interested in your baits but turn when they see you right? Longer casts with small translucent colored baits works best for me. Another thing you can try that works is speed up the retrieve. Moving the bait fast actually camoflagues it and you will get reaction strikes.

Allen

[Niagaraguy]

Thanks for the replies guys I will be sure too try this tricks out.

Munkin you are right about them turning away once they see the boat. I have been making long casts with the olive green x rap(erie and niagara smallies love the olive x raps). I'll try speeding up my retrieve and see if that trips their trigger.I'm also going too try some rattle traps that I've recently drilled and glued the rattles in place so they will be silent. I'll be out the next 2 days trying these tips I'll let you guys know how things go.

Thanks Rob

[BLUESKY]

Don't forget the Florocarbon line, or at least a leader.

[Niagaraguy]

Bluesky thanks I'm running braid and 7' flouro leader.