Smallmouth

[powerfish]

Hi All, I was wondering about fall smallie fishing and the best water temps and location to fish for them.  I live in oregon and we have mostly smallie fishing here.  The water temps are still in the lower 60s and the fish are still in the 15-40ft range.  When will they move shallow and will it be the coves first or main lake and secondary points.  I am kinda confused with all the differnt patterns I read about, I also think most are largemouth patterns.  Any help?    Thanks

[roadwarrior]

Smallmouth bass will actively feed with water temperatures down into the high 40s. Smallmouth relate to structure rather than cover. On a river it's structure in current.

I recommend primary points and humps, boulders or rock piles and flats surrounded by or closely associated with deep water. Ledges are another prime locale. If you find schools of baitfish there will be smallmouth near the school and often under the school, but these fish are difficult to target, especially in open water.

Focus on structure on the main lake. If there are schools of baitfish that's a bonus. Current, any current, is icing on the cake.

My most productive lures are jerkbaits, baby diaper yellow Gitzits, Hula Grubs and Yamamoto lizards. Others seem to prefer jigs, crankbaits and spoons. On the otherhand, my strong suit is live bait. If you really want to catch some fish, split shot live shiners.

[double a]

I am afraid that the smallmouth won't get much shallower until next spring.  They will slowly be making their way to their wintering holes and putting on a serious feed bag.  Focus on midlake humps (8-30 feet) that are real close to deep water.  I personally prefer to use blade baits (silver buddies), 4-5" jerk shads on an 1/8 gopher jig, and hair jigs.  Hit enough humps and you will be sure to find 'em.

[Chris]

Roadwarrior we live miles apart and never fished together and we both fish the same color and call it by the same name baby diaper yellow. I get a chuckle every time you write it because there is no other way to describe it. ;D

[powerfish]

Wow thanks, lots of info there.  baby diaper yellow? hmmm, I havent seen that one yet.  Might give it a try.  I tried the jerk bait and had only a couple hits, Caught 5 or 6 on a 1/2oz spinner bait, but caught most on a dropshot tube, most were about 1-1 1/2 pounds would sure like to find a 3-4 pounder .  I will  focus on the main areas you  discussed.  Thanks Ray

[roadwarrior]

Chris,

I don't know why, but it's magic.

[powerfish]

Can you tell me what the color is called and or the brand,  I'm always looking for something new. Thanks.