Wading Rivers

[RunErik]

I live on a small river in Michigan. Average depth is about 3 feet and averages about 14 feet across. I catch nice smallmouth and pike out of it almost every time I fish it. The only problem I have is that when I wade it, I spook a lot of fish. I walk upstream and downstream but seem to spook fish either way. Any advice on how not to spook them?

[Ratherbfishing]

Seems like an obvious solution but unless the banks are steep, if you believe you are spooking the fish, I suggest you walk the banks the majority of the time. And cast from there, too, if you can reach the spots. You'll be a lot less tired at the end of the day, too.

[J Francho]

Learn how to read water, and identify holding areas. Be careful not to spook those areas. Approach slowly, and wait a while before fishing. Even if you do spook them, they'll return in a few minutes, if it's prime water. Most guys will say cast upstream, and while that works, the majority of my current fish come on a quartering cast or a downstream drift.

[RunErik]

Ya. Most the fish I catch are usually while casting on the banks but most spots are too thick to cast from. I stay out of the water as much as I can but in some holes it's just not possible. I will try the downstream drift I have not tried that as much as casting up stream.

[J Francho]

Think of it as "swinging" your bait through the current. With plastics and jigs, you want to feel the bait ticking the bottom. There's a ton of river smallie videos on the web, and a few good pieces in our articles section as well.

http://www.bassresource.com/fish_biology/smallmouth_part1.html

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Especially when the water is small and clear, I try to stick to drab colors and the shady side so as to not cast shadows over the water. It's probably over kill, but if it makes you feel more confident you'll subconsciously fish longer and more carefully.

[BassThumb]

Long rods and long casts will help you sneak up on the fish. A 7' 6" spinning rod is perfect for wading little rivers, IMO.

Also, I noticed that when I would wear long, dark pants or waders I would spook fewer fish than when I would wearing shorts while wading. Drab colored clothing is an absolute must.

It takes some practice learning how to walk in rocky rivers without disturbing the rocks and making a bunch of noise. It's easy to make a racket because the rocks will often shift under your feet. Take your time and try to be as careful as possible when putting each foot down near your fishing spots.