Creek fishing in Central New York offers a unique experience, especially during the summer when smallmouth bass congregate in deeper pools due to low water levels. A recent trip resulted in over 100 smallmouth bass caught within eight hours, highlighting the effectiveness of targeting these specific areas during the warmer months.
Finding the Right Spot
Identifying productive fishing spots in creeks can significantly enhance the fishing experience. Utilizing online resources such as state fish and game websites or Google Maps can help locate deep holes where fish are likely to be concentrated. The land contours visible above the water often mirror those beneath, making steep cliffs along creek banks a good indicator of deep pools below.
Google Maps can be used to toggle between different layers to identify these contour changes. Switching to satellite view assists in locating boulder fields, blowdowns, or other likely structures before hitting the water.
Understanding Water Flow
Low water periods are key to successful creek fishing. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) website provides valuable data on water flows for about 1.9 million sites nationwide. By checking the flow levels, anglers can determine if the river is low enough to concentrate fish, increasing the chances of a successful fishing trip.
Accessing Creeks
Accessing creeks for fishing can be made easier by consulting online resources that highlight rights of way, parking lots, or boat ramps. In some cases, local farmers may grant permission to fish streams running through their property, provided that the area is left cleaner than it was found. Offering a small token of appreciation, such as cold beverages, can also go a long way in securing access.
For those with a boat, floating a creek is an excellent way to fish. Canoes, kayaks, or small jon boats are ideal, although low water levels may require portaging in some spots. Floating downstream and getting out at a suitable spot with the help of two vehicles is also an effective strategy.
Gear and Tackle
Choosing the right gear is essential for creek fishing. Wading boots with neoprene socks are recommended over sandals to protect against submerged boulders. For those who prefer wet wading, shoes like the Simms Pursuit model offer lighter protection.
Tackle for creek fishing should be simple, with a focus on ultralight rods whenever possible. Shorter rods, around 6 feet or even as short as 4 feet 6 inches, are better suited for the narrow confines of small creeks. Reels should be light and have a smooth drag to handle larger fish.
Matching the Hatch
Imitating the forage species is crucial for attracting smallmouth bass. In many creeks, crawfish are the dominant prey, making crawfish imitations like Rebel’s Crawfish or YUM’s CrawBug effective choices. Tubes that emulate freshwater shellfish, such as the Great Lakes Finesse Juvie Craw, are also highly effective.
Insects are another major part of a stream smallmouth’s diet, and baits like Rebel’s Liveflex Creek Creature series are designed to mimic the nymphal stages of insects that stream-dwelling fish feed on. Minnows are also popular prey, with lures like Yo-Zuri’s floating Pin’s Minnow or Rapala’s original Floating Minnow proving effective.
Topwater baits, such as Rebel’s Pop-R, are particularly productive at dawn and dusk, offering the benefit of not getting hung up on rocks.
Fishing Tactics
Targeting the deepest sections of holes is likely to be the most productive, especially during the heat of the day. Using sinking baits like tubes allows anglers to find the deepest spots, while hard baits like the Pin’s Minnow or Rapala can be used to cover the area with various retrieves.
The end of a set of rapids is another prime spot to target, as the rushing water creates deeper pools where smallmouths set up to feed. Boulder fields are also ideal locations, as smallmouths tend to lie in the current breaks behind boulders, waiting to eat whatever is washed their way.
It’s important to stay near the bottom to get bites with most baits, even though this often leads to losing tackle. Casting upstream and working the bait back with the current is the most natural presentation and helps minimize tackle loss.
Enjoying the Experience
Creek fishing for summer smallmouth bass offers a rewarding and fun experience. With minimal gear, anglers can enjoy a productive day on the water, making it an ideal activity for families and friends. Whether fishing from the bank or a boat, creek fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and potentially catch a large number of smallmouth bass in a single trip.
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
