POPULARITY
Categories
221 episodes with smallmouth
121 episodes with smallmouth
60 episodes with smallmouth
63 episodes with smallmouth
47 episodes with smallmouth
20 episodes with smallmouth
49 episodes with smallmouth
21 episodes with smallmouth
20 episodes with smallmouth
19 episodes with smallmouth
16 episodes with smallmouth
16 episodes with smallmouth
9 episodes with smallmouth
19 episodes with smallmouth
11 episodes with smallmouth
10 episodes with smallmouth
21 episodes with smallmouth
19 episodes with smallmouth
8 episodes with smallmouth
7 episodes with smallmouth
11 episodes with smallmouth
9 episodes with smallmouth
20 episodes with smallmouth
7 episodes with smallmouth
8 episodes with smallmouth
6 episodes with smallmouth
6 episodes with smallmouth
13 episodes with smallmouth
5 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
12 episodes with smallmouth
5 episodes with smallmouth
4 episodes with smallmouth
4 episodes with smallmouth
4 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
5 episodes with smallmouth
4 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
7 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
3 episodes with smallmouth
Charlie Hartley returns to BTL to talk about the joys of fishing for smallmouth bass on the Great Lakes.
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I have on Susquehanna River fishing guide Chris Gorsuch returns to Fishing the DMV for a detailed look at summer smallmouth bass fishing across one of Pennsylvania's most recognizable river systems. From the main stem near Harrisburg and North Liverpool to the North Branch around Laceyville and the Endless Mountains, Chris explains what he is seeing from the fishery and how anglers can adjust when quality smallmouth are not holding in their usual places.Chris believes the Susquehanna River is still fishing well, especially for anglers looking to catch numbers of smallmouth bass. However, he has seen fewer fish in the 19- to 20-plus-inch range than during the previous several springs. Bigger bass are still available—including two 23-inch smallmouth caught from his boat—but finding them has required more movement, more fuel and a willingness to fish away from the same heavily pressured areas. We discuss how year classes, winter ice, delayed grass growth, floods, low water, high summer temperatures, pollution, predators and changing forage can all influence the Susquehanna River smallmouth population.The conversation also turns toward summer smallmouth fishing techniques and the best baits for different sections of the river. Chris considers a chatterbait essential on the lower Susquehanna and main stem, while crankbaits are a major part of his North Branch fishing from spring through late fall. On the nearby Delaware River, he leans heavily on spinnerbaits, especially white skirts paired with silver, gold or copper blades that resemble young American shad and other baitfish.Chris also breaks down several developments from FITT Lures, including the Flea Flicker swimbait, VIG and Javelin. The Flea Flicker features a keeled body that allows anglers to shorten the bait while maintaining its profile and action. The VIG is a compact, thick-walled tube-style bait that can be fished on a Ned head, screw-lock jig, Carolina rig or other presentations. Chris explains how these baits can be used around grass, deeper holes, current breaks and other productive river smallmouth habitat.Fish care is another important part of this episode. Chris shares why he nets every bass, keeps his camera ready before lifting a fish from the water and releases weak post-spawn fish without taking a picture. He also discusses shortening fight times during warm-water periods and why proper handling matters when catching large Susquehanna River smallmouth.In this episode, we cover:The current state of Susquehanna River smallmouth fishingWhy anglers are seeing fewer 20-inch bass than in recent springsHow to locate bigger smallmouth by covering water and changing areasChatterbait, crankbait and spinnerbait fishing for river smallmouthGrass, current, deeper holes and summertime bass positioningFITT Lures Flea Flicker, VIG and Javelin rigging optionsChoosing lure colors based on depth, water clarity and forageProper summertime smallmouth bass handling and fish carePlease support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com FITT Lures: https://bit.ly/4w5lgHtLMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Max4 Fishing: https://bit.ly/4unuiOs Flint Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/43t8h5N #FishingtheDMV #SmallmouthFishing #FishingReport Support the show
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Redbone sit down with Shane Wagner of Wagner Heating and Air for a wide-ranging conversation covering his roots in West Plains, Missouri, how he learned the HVAC trade hands-on, and tips for maintaining your split air units. Shane also opens up about his passion for whitetail and turkey hunting using Wise Eye trail cameras, his approach to deer management on the family farm, and his side gig coaching high school basketball at Koshkonong. Stick around for the bonus segment where Shane shares his favorite deer meat recipes. Plus, Cardinals baseball talk and Chiefs updates to kick things off.Chapters & Timestamps:0:00 – Show Open & Food Plot Tips1:04 – Welcome to American Roots Outdoors3:08 – Cardinals Baseball Talk4:16 – Chiefs & Travis Kelce5:39 – Shane Wagner Joins the Show7:31 – Shane's Roots & Heating Business10:17 – Certifications & Career Advice14:00 – Deer Hunting & Wise Eye Cameras19:44 – Sanctuary & Deer Management21:59 – Split Air Unit Maintenance Tips25:37 – Why Mini Splits Are Popular28:06 – Rifles & Long Range Shooting28:44 – Coaching High School Basketball32:37 – Bonus: Cooking Deer Meat35:45 – Invitation to Hunt & Closing Thoughts36:47 – OutroMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewIn this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for a midsummer conditions update on the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania. Recorded following a stretch of triple-digit heat punctuated by heavy rain, the report finds Shumaker firmly in prime topwater season, with blue damselflies coming off heavy from late morning into the evenings and the white fly hatch on deck for the end of July into early August.Shumaker walks through his day-to-day approach on the water: starting clients with a popping bug and a streamer or crayfish pattern first thing in the morning, then committing fully to topwater by mid-morning. On color selection, he leans on Carolina blue Boogle Bugs and smaller blockhead poppers, with yellow still producing thanks to lingering sulphurs, and blue, white, yellow and green all working depending on the day. For the white fly window, he skips realistic dries in favor of a Clouser's Floating Minnow or a small white popper twitched across the surface after dark.The conversation also covers river conditions following recent heavy rain — both the Susquehanna and Juniata are dropping from a solid slug of water but haven't bottomed out, with more rain possibly on the way. Shumaker shares his theory on why big smallmouth become nocturnal feeders once water temperatures push into the high 80s, and closes with fall booking availability for late September into early October.Key TakeawaysHow to structure a summer smallmouth day on the Susquehanna and Juniata by starting with a popper-and-streamer combo and shifting fully to topwater by mid-morning.Why blue, white, yellow and green popper colors are all producing right now, tied to peak blue damselfly activity and the tail end of the sulphur hatch.When to expect the white fly hatch to begin on the Susquehanna system, and how to switch presentations from realistic dries to a Clouser's Floating Minnow or a small twitched popper after dark.Why big smallmouth bass shift to nocturnal feeding once water temperatures climb into the high 80s, and how that changes where and when to target trophy fish.How to read post-rain conditions on the Susquehanna and Juniata, since both rivers were dropping from a recent high-water event without bottoming out.Techniques & Gear CoveredShumaker's summer topwater program centers on popping bug fishing, with a Carolina blue Boogle Bug and smaller blockhead poppers as the go-to producers, plus a yellow Boogle Bug that still draws strikes off the lingering sulphur hatch. Early in the day he'll pair a popper with a streamer or crayfish pattern on a second rod to gauge activity before committing to topwater for the rest of the day. For the incoming white fly hatch, he moves away from imitative dry patterns like a size 12 white Wulff in favor of a Clouser's Floating Minnow tied with a white head and white bucktail, or a smaller white popper twitched across the surface after dark. He also discusses fishing after dark generally as a heat-avoidance and big-fish strategy once water temperatures push into the high 80s and large smallmouth shift to feeding on baitfish and small critters swimming across the river after sunset.Locations & SpeciesThe report covers the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania, both of which received a significant rain event that pushed flows up before beginning to recede; the Juniata remains somewhat stained while the Susquehanna is dropping into more fishable shape, with additional rain possible by the weekend. Smallmouth bass are the primary target, with the fishery currently in full topwater mode driven by heavy blue damselfly activity and the approach of the white fly hatch. Shumaker also notes water temperatures reaching the high 80s, which pushes larger, trophy-class smallmouth into nocturnal feeding patterns on baitfish and small terrestrial prey.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat is the best popper color for summer smallmouth on the Susquehanna and Juniata?Blue is the top producer right now, particularly a Carolina blue Boogle Bug or smaller blockhead poppers, matching the heavy blue damselfly activity. Yellow poppers are also working off the tail end of the sulphur hatch, and white and green will draw strikes as well.When does the white fly hatch start on the Susquehanna river system?Shumaker expects the white fly hatch to begin rolling in at the end of July into the beginning of August. It comes off heavy and after dark, which changes both fly selection and the timing of a day on the water.Why do big smallmouth bass become nocturnal feeders in the summer?Shumaker's theory is that once water temperatures climb into the high 80s, larger fish shift to feeding after dark, whether to beat the heat or take advantage of baitfish and small critters swimming across the river at night. Fishing after dark is one way anglers can target trophy fish while also avoiding the worst of the daytime heat.How are the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers fishing after recent heavy rain?Both rivers received a solid slug of water and are dropping, with the Juniata still somewhat stained. Conditions aren't expected to bottom out before additional rain arrives, which should help keep flows consistent heading into the following week.When is the best time to book a fall smallmouth trip with Brian Shumaker?Shumaker highlights the last half of September through the first two weeks of October as a sweet spot, offering cooler conditions than peak summer while still fishing well for Susquehanna and Juniata smallmouth.Related ContentS8, Ep 48 - Summer Heat Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Smallmouth TipsS8, Ep 43 - Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal Shifts: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania ReportS8, Ep 39 - High Water Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania Smallmouth InsightsS8, Ep 34 - Frog Patterns and Fishing Strategies: Brian Shumaker's Late Spring Smallmouth ReportConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Mark Hanson StCroix ambassador talks about using old fishing lures. Ken Duke Bass after dark host talks bass fishing and more. Mike Iaconelli talks about his Ike foundation and his 2026 professional fishing season so far.
Guest Austin Sandman Pacific Northwest tournament angler ABA Angler of the Year Northwest Bass Angler of the Year Grant County Fish & Wildlife employee Eastern Washington farmer Topics Covered Upcoming BAM Events Preview of the BAM Super 60 at Tri-Cities Pro-Am tournament discussion Why Tri-Cities was selected as the tournament venue Family-friendly attractions around Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco Columbia River Tournament Strategy Expected summertime bass patterns Predicted winning weight Smallmouth vs. largemouth opportunities Current breaks and dam-influenced fishing Areas where local knowledge can provide an advantage Best Lures for Tri-Cities Zara Super Spook Walking topwater baits Poppers Drop shot Forward-facing sonar techniques Carolina Rig Lizards for smallmouth Pacific Northwest Fisheries Columbia River Lake Roosevelt Potholes Reservoir Moses Lake Why Washington offers some of the country's most overlooked bass fisheries Beyond Bass Fishing Sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River Juvenile sturgeon recovery Fish and Wildlife conservation efforts Columbia River dams and fisheries management Life Outside Tournament Fishing Wheat farming in Eastern Washington Center-pivot irrigation systems Balancing farming with tournament competition Growing up in the Pacific Northwest Austin's Tournament Journey Starting tournament fishing at age 19 Competing without today's electronics Building a successful tournament career Importance of confidence on the water Supporting local sponsors and businesses Growing Tournament Fishing Why more anglers should fish the BAM Super 60 Opportunities for Pro and Co-Anglers Building the future of tournament fishing in the Pacific Northwest Creating a stronger regional bass fishing community Key Takeaways Tri-Cities is shaping up to be one of the most exciting stops on the BAM Super 60 schedule. Local knowledge of current, structure, and seasonal movements could make the difference between cashing a check and winning $50,000. The Pacific Northwest offers world-class bass fishing that remains underappreciated nationally. Success in tournament fishing comes from confidence, consistency, and adapting to changing conditions. Austin's passion for conservation, farming, and competitive fishing makes him a unique voice in the Northwest bass fishing community. Watch More BAM Content Follow the BAM Trail for tournament coverage, live weigh-ins, podcast episodes, and professional bass fishing action from across the West. Website: https://bamtrail.comMagazine: https://bassanglermag.com About BAM Podcasts Bass Angler Magazine's is a bi-monthly podcast series its available free on Simple Cast, iTunes, Spotify, Google Play and Amazon. Stay tuned as we discuss the latest in bass fishing, lure trends, ways to catch fish, tournament wins and things of interest to bass anglers.BASS ANGLER MAGAZINE (BAM), a veteran owned quarterly print and digital magazine, designed, and printed in the U.S.A. Covering largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, Bass Angler was created specifically to help you become a better, more informed bass fisherman. As the industry's most informative bass fishing magazine, we provide you in-depth exclusive new features with the world's top anglers.Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
Jake has a great conversation about all things Ozarks Smallmouth with Dan Kreher of the Missouri Smallmouth Alliance
Jake has a great conversation about all things Ozarks Smallmouth with Dan Kreher of the Missouri Smallmouth Alliance
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast, would like you to listen to the week's podcast. Dan Johnston talks about fishing safety including bad weather.Joe Bucher talks key times to fish for big fish in the summer. Keith Poche just won the Toyota Tournament on the Potomac River. He tells us how he won.
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I am joined by the man, the myth, the legend Jake Harshman! We're talking all things Susquehanna River fishing as anglers get ready for the upcoming kayak tournament in July. Jake breaks down what makes the Susquehanna such a legendary smallmouth fishery, what anglers should expect this summer, and how to prepare for tournament conditions on one of the most iconic rivers in the country. From seasonal patterns and bait selection to river conditions, kayak tournament strategy, and the mindset needed to compete, this episode is packed with information for anyone fishing the Susquehanna or following the Mid-Atlantic kayak fishing scene. Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon!!! https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com Jake Harshman social media: To book a trip, click on the link to his website down below: https://www.chocolatetownriverguide.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZO8WzpUoURUatFznOEv1MyWsBsSaqbryvzVQ53VZ6XU0D1-LU5cv1_SYo_aem_TK7bWVZUN7koK6Z6wXDG3Q YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JakeHarshman Instagram: https://instagram.com/pa.kayakbassin?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Chocolate town on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocolatetownguide?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== TikTok: PA.kayakbassin Check out my sponsors down below!! LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Max4 Fishing: https://bit.ly/4unuiOs Flint Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/43t8h5N #bassfishing #fishingtheDMV #fishingtipsSupport the show
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Redbone dive into the best fishing streams of the Ozarks — Current River, Jack's Fork, Gasconade, Eleven Point, and more — sharing trout fishing stories, smallmouth tales, and grilling tips, alongside Cardinals/Royals talk, World Cup soccer, and shoutouts to sponsors Eagle Seed, 12 Point Hunting Blinds, Wiseye Technologies, Spandow/Spandau Arms, and Hornady Ammunition.Chapter markers:Trout Fishing Stories & Studio Banter (0:00)Eagle Seed Food Plot Segment (0:53)Studio Intro & Cardinals/Royals Talk (1:30)World Cup Soccer Talk (3:21)Ozark Streams Preview & Father's Day Stories (5:18)Segment 2: Ozark River Streams (10:14)Spandow Firearms Ad (19:42)Segment 3: 12 Point Blinds & Eleven Point River (20:00)Segment 4: River Streams Continued (28:49)Spandau Guns & Grilling Recipes (37:47)Closing Remarks & Sign-off (45:16)Outro Song: American Roots Theme (46:29)Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Send us Fan MailThis week on American Roots Outdoors, Alex Rutledge and Redbone sit down with special guest Travis Smith — turkey hunting enthusiast, former Missouri legislator, and lifelong outdoorsman. From growing up in West Plains and working for the Atlanta Hawks/Braves, to coaching football, raising grandkids, and chasing gobblers with his grandfather's old shotgun, Travis shares stories about faith, family, and life in the Ozarks. Plus: Fourth of July safety tips, Cardinals talk, tick-borne illness and controlled burns, and a bonus segment on smoking meats and wild blackberry recipes.Chapters:0:00 — Intro & Eagle Seed Ad1:34 — Show Open & Current Events1:47 — Who Is Travis Smith?11:28 — Travis's Background & Family17:02 — Faith & Public Service21:10 — Turkey Hunting Stories24:49 — Guns, Ticks & Controlled Burns29:57 — Football Coaching Journey33:47 — Farmer's Market & Community Talk36:11 — Wrap-Up & Where to Follow Travis40:32 — Bonus Segment: 250th Birthday & Recipes42:24 — Smoking Meat & Blackberries48:10 — Closing Thoughts & OutroMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Chris Lawrence broadcasts an entire episode live from the deck of Ed Powell's bass boat on Lake Erie near Buffalo, New York, during a Memorial Day weekend pre-spawn smallmouth trip. After enduring miserable 48-degree, windy, rain-soaked conditions on day one, the pair land an extraordinary haul on day two, boating over 50 smallmouth with five fish topping four pounds, including a 4-pound, 11-ounce standout — what Lawrence calls the best day of fishing in his life. Powell, who is pre-fishing the stretch ahead of a Bassmaster Open in August, walks through his drop shot technique on vertical seawalls, braided line setup, and the role of forward-facing LiveScope sonar, discussing both its advantages and the ongoing debate over whether it makes competitive fishing too easy. The conversation also touches on Powell's season on the Bassmaster Opens circuit, including a top-10 finish at Lake Norman, and the Tour de Coal float trip on the Coal River back home in West Virginia.
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast, would like you to listen to this week's episode. We start off with Dan Johnston talking about hot summertime fishing. Brian Brosdahl talks about his guide trips in Northern Minnesota. Trey McKinney leads the Elite Bass Series as angler of the year, with two tournaments to go! Let's hear how he's getting that done!
Episode OverviewA scorching Fourth of July heat wave is bearing down on Central Pennsylvania, and the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers are about to test every smallmouth angler's heat tolerance. On this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report from The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for a candid, safety-first conversation about fishing smallmouth bass through triple-digit conditions.With water temperatures pushing into the 90s and a 101-degree forecast on the horizon, Brian breaks down how heat affects both the bite and angler safety on his home waters. The Juniata offers some bankside shade thanks to its narrower channel, while the three-quarter-mile-wide Susquehanna leaves anglers largely exposed. Brian and Marvin trade practical advice on hydration, sun protection and timing strategy, then dig into the tactical adjustments that keep smallmouth on the line when conditions turn brutal. That includes a hard pivot to tropical fly lines once standard fly lines start going soupy in the heat, plus a shade-line and riffle-focused approach using poppers, crayfish patterns and baitfish imitations like the Murdich Minnow. The two also debate the merits of an early-morning session versus a late-afternoon-into-dark float, with Brian making a clear case for the latter. It is a short, practical episode built around one core message: protect yourself first, then adapt your tactics to the heat.Key TakeawaysHow to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related risks while fishing smallmouth in 100-plus-degree conditionsWhy tropical fly lines outperform standard fly lines once summer heat sets inWhen to fish for the best results during a heat wave: a late-afternoon-into-dark session over an early-morning startHow to use shade lines and oxygenated riffles to locate active smallmouth during the hottest part of the dayWhich fly patterns to throw when water temperatures push into the 90s, including poppers, crayfish patterns and baitfish imitations like the Murdich MinnowWhy caffeine and alcohol should be avoided in favor of water and sports drinks on extreme-heat fishing daysTechniques & Gear CoveredBrian outlines a shade-line and riffle-focused approach for fishing smallmouth through extreme summer heat, working topwater poppers along shaded banks and rolling crayfish patterns through riffles where oxygen levels run higher. For subsurface presentations, he reaches for baitfish imitations including the Murdich Minnow and Shimmering Minnow patterns. The single biggest gear adjustment for this stretch of summer is the fly line itself: Brian made the switch to tropical lines years ago, since standard fly lines turn soft and sticky once water and air temperatures climb to summer levels. On the sun-protection side, the conversation covers sun hoodies with built-in buff gaiters, quick-dry SPF nylon pants and wide-brim hats as practical defenses against extended midday exposure on open water like the Susquehanna.Locations & SpeciesThis report centers on the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania, Brian's primary guide waters out of Susquehanna River Guides. Smallmouth bass are the target species throughout. The conversation is framed around peak summer heat conditions heading into the Fourth of July, with water temperatures pushing into the 90s and air temperatures forecast to hit 101 degrees. The Juniata's narrower channel and tree-lined banks provide more shade options than the much wider Susquehanna, where shade is largely limited to the banks themselves, making shade-line and riffle strategy especially important on the bigger river during this stretch.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhy do tropical fly lines work better than standard fly lines for summer smallmouth fishing?Standard fly lines turn soft and sticky as water and air temperatures climb to summer levels, making them difficult to cast and fish effectively. Tropical lines are built to hold their stiffness and performance in high heat, which is why Brian made the permanent switch starting around July and continuing through early September.How can anglers stay safe while fly fishing in extreme heat?Brian and Marvin recommend drinking water at least every 30 to 45 minutes throughout the day, and avoiding both alcohol and caffeine since both contribute to dehydration. Full sun coverage matters too, including 50 SPF sunscreen, sun hoodies with built-in gaiters, quick-dry SPF clothing and a wide-brim hat, even when fishing in or near shade.What time of day is best for fishing smallmouth bass during a heat wave?Brian prefers getting on the water around 5 p.m. and fishing until dark, rather than starting at first light. A late-afternoon start avoids the pre-dawn shuttle logistics of an early session while still delivering enough usable light to fish productively until around 9 or 9:15 p.m.What fly patterns work best for smallmouth bass when water temperatures push into the 90s?Topwater poppers worked along shade lines remain effective, and crayfish patterns produce well when fished through oxygenated riffles. For baitfish presentations, Brian reaches for the Murdich Minnow and Shimmering Minnow patterns.How can anglers find productive water on a wide river like the Susquehanna during peak summer heat?Since the three-quarter-mile-wide Susquehanna offers little overhead shade beyond its banks, Brian focuses on fishing the available shade lines along the banks combined with oxygenated riffle sections, rather than expecting shade relief across the open channel the way a narrower river like the Juniata provides.Related ContentS8, Ep 43: Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal Shifts: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania ReportS8, Ep 39: High Water Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania Smallmouth InsightsS8, Ep 34: Frog Patterns and Fishing Strategies: Brian Shumaker's Late Spring Smallmouth ReportS8, Ep 31: Chasing Smallmouth: Brian Shumaker's Adaptations for Unpredictable Spring WeatherS8, Ep 46: Low Water, Big Bugs: Matt Reilly's Southwest Virginia Fishing UpdateConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.
Trout weren't always in the Ozarks...and the story of how they got here is wilder than you'd expect. → Join other Ozarkers in our Patreon - The Holler → Get weekly updates, show notes, and stories in our NEWSLETTER Arkansas Game & Fish trout program coordinator Christy Graham joins Kyle to trace the full arc of Ozark trout fishing: from rail cars delivering the first rainbows in the 1890s, to the Corps of Engineers dams that replaced legendary smallmouth fisheries with cold water tailwaters, to the $230 million-a-year economy now built around a non-native fish. Along the way you'll learn why the Little Red River is the most magical (and most self-sustaining) trout fishery in the state, and why catching more fish might actually mean worse fishing. Whether you're new to fly fishing or a lifelong angler, this is the episode that gives you the full picture of what you're standing in when you wade into an Ozark tailwater. Together with... Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks 0:00 – Trout Aren't Native to the Ozarks 4:15 – History of Trout in the Ozarks: Rail Cars, Dams & Mitigation 6:25 – What Happened to the Smallmouth? 12:35 – Why Were the Dams Built? 17:00 – When Did Trout Fishing Really Take Off? 22:50 – More Fish vs. Bigger Fish? 24:30 – How Important Is Trout Fishing to Arkansas? 31:00 – Natural Reproduction vs. Stocking 38:00 – Who Runs What? What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett, and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com
Brownlee Super 60 Championship Rich Craft recaps his dominant Brownlee Reservoir victory. Winning the $50,000 first-place prize. Why he chose a weight-first strategy instead of chasing numbers. How advice following a difficult rookie season changed his tournament approach. Tournament-Winning Pattern Finding key offshore structure during practice. Using Forward-Facing Sonar to locate structure instead of individual fish. Drop shot setup featuring Yamamoto Shad Shape Worms. Natural shad colors and quarter-ounce weights. Fishing depths from 20–35 feet. Catching four of his final-day fish from one key area. Brownlee Reservoir Breakdown Why post-spawn conditions lowered tournament weights. Adjusting to deeper fish. Smallmouth behavior during late June. How patience and confidence led to victory. Sponsorship Changes Transition from Phoenix Boats to Caymas Boats. Partnership with Nixon's Marine. Toyota of Puyallup sponsorship. GSM Outdoors and Yamamoto support. How contingency programs add significant value for professional anglers. Looking Ahead to Tri-Cities Expected winning patterns. Topwater opportunities. Spinnerbait, swimbait and drop shot techniques. Potential for giant largemouth and quality smallmouth. Why Tri-Cities is one of Rich's favorite tournament destinations. Rich Craft's Story From trout fishing to competitive bass fishing. Joining a bass club in 2013. Purchasing his first bass boat in 2017. Nine career tournament victories. 2024 State Champion. Qualifying for the Ultimate Angler Championship at Guntersville. Mark Lassagne Update Recovery following emergency gallbladder surgery. Returning for the Tri-Cities Super 60. Behind-the-scenes look at producing BAM live broadcasts and television coverage. Plans for continued growth of the BAM Super 60. Sponsors Mentioned Nixon's Marine Caymas Boats Toyota of Puyallup GSM Outdoors Yamamoto Baits Topics Covered Brownlee Reservoir bass fishing BAM Super 60 Professional bass fishing Tournament strategy Forward-Facing Sonar Drop shot fishing Smallmouth bass Post-spawn fishing Tri-Cities bass fishing Bass tournament preparation Professional angler sponsorship West Coast bass fishing About BAM Podcasts Bass Angler Magazine's is a bi-monthly podcast series its available free on Simple Cast, iTunes, Spotify, Google Play and Amazon. Stay tuned as we discuss the latest in bass fishing, lure trends, ways to catch fish, tournament wins and things of interest to bass anglers.BASS ANGLER MAGAZINE (BAM), a veteran owned quarterly print and digital magazine, designed, and printed in the U.S.A. Covering largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, Bass Angler was created specifically to help you become a better, more informed bass fisherman. As the industry's most informative bass fishing magazine, we provide you in-depth exclusive new features with the world's top anglers.Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
Post-spawn smallmouth seem to vanish overnight, but they haven't gone far — they're just on the move. In this episode, we break down how to track smallmouth as they transition from spawning flats to summer structure, why certain stopping points like points, ledges, and grass edges can stay productive for weeks, and how to use water temperature as a roadmap for where fish are in that journey. We also bust the myth that every smallmouth goes deep after the spawn, showing you why some fish stick to shallow cover all summer if the food's still there. Plus, we cover the finesse soft plastic presentations that consistently produce during this transition, no matter where the fish are holding. If your June smallmouth bite has felt unpredictable, this episode will help you find the pattern.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON
This week we're sharing stories from a summer full of fishing—from Caleb's unforgettable two-day trip with his boys chasing bluegill and smallmouth to our ongoing quest for trophy bronzebacks and our newest challenge of chasing carp on the fly.Along the way we talk about encouraging kids to try hard things, celebrating growth over success, and why intentional time together often matters more than what's at the end of your line.Whether you're a dad, an angler, or just someone who loves a good fishing story, we think you'll enjoy this conversation.Get your Dads On The Fly Merch in our online store .Check out our sponsors:https://turtleboxaudio.com/https://nativesflyfishing.com/https://saludabeads.com/https://rambler.co/
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge, Redbone, and special guest Cole Legman from WiseEye Technologies discuss why running trail cameras year-round is essential for hunters, farmers, and property owners. Topics include new WiseEye features (DC2 live streaming, population studies via Hunt Control), law enforcement and government camera uses, security applications, the Ranch Plus subscription plan, CWD and tick research, Eagle Seed food plots, and off-season land management. The bonus segment features fish recipes including redfish boulets, Italian dressing marinades, and Louisiana-style catfish.Chapter Markers:0:00 – Intro & Show Open2:06 – Meet Cole Legman – WiseEye Marketing Team3:43 – Current Events: Baseball & Sports Talk5:36 – NFL Contracts vs. Military Pay Debate10:06 – Segment 2: Why Run Cameras Year-Round?12:24 – Cameras for Security, Law Enforcement & Wildlife Monitoring13:57 – CWD, Ticks & Ivermectin Research Discussion17:12 – Segment 3: Cameras, Food Plots & Off-Season Monitoring27:13 – Segment 4: Farmers & Ranchers Using WiseEye Cameras30:57 – Ranch Plus Plan & Subscription Options32:06 – Camera Placement & Security Tips38:30 – Bonus Segment: Fish Recipes & Cooking TipsMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewGeorge Costa, manager at TCO Fly Shop in State College, Pennsylvania, joins host Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast for the latest Central PA Fishing Report as early summer conditions take hold across the region's limestone streams. Recorded in late June with the calendar almost at July, this report catches Central PA at an important seasonal juncture: stream temperatures have been favorable in the low 60s following a recent shot of rain, but a warming trend is on the horizon that will require anglers to exercise real discipline about when — and whether — to fish.Costa reports stream temps around 61°F and highlights the key 68°F threshold: when water temperatures climb above that mark, catch and release fishing becomes inadvisable because trout cannot be safely released. He encourages anglers to shift their day structure around this reality, targeting early mornings and late evenings while avoiding midday sessions as temperatures creep upward next week.On the insect front, Cahills and Isonychia (Isos) are active, and terrestrials are working well — Greenie Weenies, ants and Chubby Chernobyls are getting fish to look up. Dry fly action is most consistent in the evenings, with early morning fishing also productive. Trico hatches are still two to three weeks out, expected to arrive in mid-July. Costa also previews upcoming TCO Fly Shop events, including a summer fly fishing festival in August at the Boiling Springs location and a topwater smallmouth bass class with local guide Caleb available this weekend in State College.Key TakeawaysHow to use the 68°F stream temperature threshold to protect fish during early summer heat and plan your fishing day accordingly.Why early morning and late evening are the most productive windows for Central PA trout fishing as summer temperatures build.When to expect trico hatches on Central PA waters — mid-July is typical.How terrestrial patterns like Greenie Weenies, ants and Chubby Chernobyls can keep fish looking up when midday hatch activity slows.Why recent rain is good news for Central PA anglers and how to think about conditions in the days following precipitation.Techniques & Gear CoveredThe episode focuses on early summer dry fly and terrestrial fishing strategies for Central PA limestone streams. Costa discusses the concurrent Cahill and Iso hatches driving evening dry fly action, alongside the broadening terrestrial game that is now well underway — Greenie Weenies, ant patterns and Chubby Chernobyls are all drawing fish to the surface throughout the day. Timing discipline is the defining early summer tactic: fishing early and late while avoiding midday sessions as air and water temperatures climb. Stream temperature monitoring functions as the underlying framework for all of this, with Costa referencing the 68°F threshold as the practical guideline that should govern whether catch and release fishing is appropriate on a given afternoon. Looking ahead, trico hatches on Central PA waters typically arrive in mid-July, bringing a different presentation challenge that favors fine tippets and small dries in the morning hours.Locations & SpeciesThe episode covers Central Pennsylvania's limestone stream network centered around State College and the surrounding Centre County watershed. Wild trout are the primary target species throughout, with the Cahill, Iso and terrestrial hatch discussions pointing squarely to the regulated limestone streams the region is known for. Costa also references TCO's Boiling Springs location as the site of the upcoming summer festival, touching on the Yellow Breeches corridor in Cumberland County. Smallmouth bass get a secondary mention in the context of a topwater class happening this weekend, reflecting the early summer period when bass become a compelling alternative as trout fishing demands closer attention to water temperatures.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do rising stream temperatures affect catch and release fishing in Central PA during summer?When stream temperatures exceed 68°F, Costa advises anglers to stop practicing catch and release fishing because trout cannot be safely released at that temperature. The physiological stress of a fight in warm water can be fatal even when fish appear to swim off, so monitoring stream temperature with a thermometer and avoiding midday sessions is the most responsible approach as summer heat builds.What hatches are active on Central PA limestone streams in late June?Cahills and Isonychia (Isos) are both active on Central PA streams in late June, with evening sessions producing the most consistent dry fly action. Terrestrials — including Greenie Weenies, ants and Chubby Chernobyls — are also working well and getting fish to look up throughout the day. Trico hatches are still about two to three weeks away, with mid-July being the typical window for them to pop.When is the best time of day to fly fish Central PA trout streams in early summer?Early morning and late evening are the most productive windows during the early summer period in Central PA. Midday fishing has been slow, with hatch activity and fish receptiveness to dry flies concentrated in the cooler parts of the day. This shift in daily timing becomes increasingly important as summer temperatures climb toward the 68°F temperature cut-off.Why are terrestrial patterns effective on Central PA streams in late June?By late June, streamside vegetation is fully established and insects like ants and beetles are regularly falling into the water. Costa specifically calls out Greenie Weenies, ant patterns and Chubby Chernobyls as current producers — foam and terrestrial imitations that draw opportunistic rises from fish that are actively looking toward the surface during the early summer terrestrial season.When should Central PA anglers expect the trico hatch to begin?Based on Costa's experience and current conditions, trico hatches on Central PA waters typically start in mid-July, roughly two to three weeks from the time of this report. He had not yet heard of any trico activity at the time of recording and expects it will be at least a few more weeks before the hatch appears in appreciable numbers.Related ContentS8, Ep 42 - Exploring Terrestrials and Summer Patterns: George Costa's Fishing ForecastS8, Ep 35 - From Sulphurs to Drakes: George Costa's Essential Fishing Report for Central PAS7, Ep 70 - The Dog Days of Summer: Trico Tactics in Central PA with George CostaS7, Ep 57 - Cicada Mania: Central PA Fishing Insights with George CostaConnect with Our GuestFollow TCO on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.
In the first hour of Terry Wickstrom Outdoors, Darrin Christensen joins the show to discuss Fly-fishing. Sahwn Rebuk joins the show to discuss summer activities happening at Lake McConaughy. Austin Parr joins the show to talk about Smallmouth fishing at Chatfield.
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we head back to Pennsylvania to break down the Juniata River smallmouth bass bite with Jordan Lovejoy, winner of the Kayak Adventure Series Juniata River event with an impressive 94.50 inches. Jordan shares how he unlocked a powerful post-spawn smallmouth bass pattern, why the Juniata River is one of the most underrated smallmouth rivers in the country, and how kayak anglers can find overlooked fish in current, shoals, isolated rock, and mid-river structure.We dive deep into Juniata River fishing, Susquehanna River smallmouth behavior, kayak bass fishing strategy, and the key differences between fishing the Juniata River, Upper Potomac River, New River, Shenandoah River, Holston River, and Susquehanna River. Jordan explains how he targeted post-spawn smallmouth with a chatterbait, why subtle bait action mattered, how fish were positioning around rock and current seams, and why many anglers overlook the best water by focusing only on the bank.This episode is loaded with river smallmouth fishing knowledge, including how to fish current, how to locate big smallmouth bass after the spawn, how to break down shallow rocky rivers, how to approach kayak fishing tournaments, and why the Juniata River Valley deserves more attention on the national bass fishing stage. Jordan also talks about the growth of kayak tournament fishing, the Kayak Adventure Series, college kayak fishing, forward-facing sonar, river fishing safety, kayak motors, and why smallmouth rivers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and the Mid-Atlantic are some of the best fisheries in the country. Pasted text.txtWhether you fish the Juniata River, Susquehanna River, Upper Potomac, Shenandoah, New River, or any rocky smallmouth river, this episode is packed with tips to help you catch more and bigger smallmouth bassPlease support Fishing the DMV on Patreon!!! https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com Kayak adventure Series on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550050984841 Jordan Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/no.ramp.required.podcast?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Lovejoy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jordan.lovejoy.fishing Jordan Lovejoy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordan.lovejoy.fishing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Flint Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/43t8h5N Max4 Fishing: https://bit.ly/4unuiOs Support the show
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston and I talk fish handling this week. I talk about fishing tournaments and what's involved with traveling and competing in these events. Charlie Evans talks fishing and upcoming events that you may want to attend.
Summer is prime time for river smallmouth, and once the water warms up, these fish become some of the most aggressive and predictable bass you can target. In this episode, we break down how rising water temperatures change smallmouth behavior, why crayfish are the key food source to imitate around rock and gravel, and why the shoreline often holds more active fish than the middle of the river. We cover how to read current breaks, shade lines, and first drop-offs, how to cover water efficiently until a pattern shows itself, and the gear setup that gives you the sensitivity and control to handle hard-fighting river fish. If you want to turn every bend and rock line into a productive stop, this episode has the blueprint.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON
Chris Lawrence broadcasts an entire episode live from the deck of Ed Powell's bass boat on Lake Erie near Buffalo, New York, during a Memorial Day weekend pre-spawn smallmouth trip. After enduring miserable 48-degree, windy, rain-soaked conditions on day one, the pair land an extraordinary haul on day two, boating over 50 smallmouth with five fish topping four pounds, including a 4-pound, 11-ounce standout — what Lawrence calls the best day of fishing in his life. Powell, who is pre-fishing the stretch ahead of a Bassmaster Open in August, walks through his drop shot technique on vertical seawalls, braided line setup, and the role of forward-facing LiveScope sonar, discussing both its advantages and the ongoing debate over whether it makes competitive fishing too easy. The conversation also touches on Powell's season on the Bassmaster Opens circuit, including a top-10 finish at Lake Norman, and a season recap including the Tour de Coal float trip on the Coal River back home in West Virginia.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Redbone dive into everything you need to know about Ozarks river fishing — from post-spawn smallmouth behavior to bait selection, color theory, and reading river conditions. They also catch up on local tournament results, upcoming events, a Hannah Harper concert recap, and the hottest sports stories of the week. Stick around for the bonus segment where Alex and Redbone share their go-to fish recipes straight from the riverbank.Chapter Markers & Timestamps:0:00 – Intro & Pre-Spawn Fishing Tips1:48 – Current Events & Tournament Results4:47 – Hannah Harper Concert & Sports Talk11:23 – Segment 2: River Fishing – Where to Find Fish20:24 – Segment 3: Topwater Baits, Colors & Crankbaits28:31 – Segment 4: Jerk Baits, Storm Fishing & Wrap-Up38:20 – Bonus Segment: Fish RecipesMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewIn this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for an early summer conditions update on the Susquehanna River system in central Pennsylvania. With late spawners still working through a post-spawn funk and a stretch of volatile weather keeping temperatures yo-yoing between the 70s and the low 90s, Shumaker explains why the region hasn't fully transitioned to topwater mode — and what that means tactically for anglers on the water right now. He walks through his two-rod, split-presentation approach: one angler working poppers toward the banks to prospect for fish looking up while the other fishes streamers, Clouser Minnows and crayfish patterns off the banks for fish holding deeper. If the topside bite isn't producing, both anglers go under and adjust from there. Shumaker flags the appearance of blue damsels as his primary visual cue that the bug bite is imminent — a reliable seasonal indicator that, combined with warming temperatures, signals the topwater game is close to locking in for the summer and early fall. Forage development is tracking normally despite an unusual spring: small baitfish are present in expected numbers and crayfish are progressing on schedule, suggesting the full summer pattern is assembling without disruption. Both Shumaker and Marvin agree that early July is typically when the topwater game solidifies and runs through the end of the season, making late summer and early fall a prime window for anglers looking to get on the Susquehanna with a guide.Key TakeawaysHow to use a two-rod split approach — one angler on topwater and one subsurface — to efficiently read fish mood and adjust during early summer transition conditions on the Susquehanna.Why the appearance of blue damsels is a reliable biological indicator that sustained topwater smallmouth fishing is imminent, even when temperatures haven't yet fully flipped.When to expect the topwater game to solidify on Pennsylvania smallmouth rivers, with early July typically marking the turning point for consistent popper fishing through the rest of the season.How to work bank structure simultaneously from topside and subsurface angles — poppers toward the banks, streamers and crayfish patterns perpendicular off the banks — to cover the full feeding zone.Why forage tracking matters early in the season, and what normally developing baitfish and crayfish populations signal about the summer bite ahead.Techniques & Gear CoveredShumaker's early summer approach centers on a simultaneous split-presentation strategy: one angler works topwater with poppers along the banks while the other fishes streamers, Clouser Minnows and crayfish patterns subsurface off the banks. The pairing functions as a real-time fish mood check — if the topside bite isn't firing, both anglers shift below the surface and dial in from there. Shimmering Minnow patterns are also in the subsurface rotation. Bank structure is the primary focus throughout, with poppers presented tight to cover and streamer or crayfish patterns cast perpendicular to probe fish holding off the bank.Locations & SpeciesThe episode covers the Susquehanna River system in central Pennsylvania, which forms the backbone of Captain Brian Shumaker's Susquehanna River Guides operation. Smallmouth bass are the sole target species, with the fishery sitting in a transitional early summer window as late spawners finish shaking off post-spawn lethargy and conditions trend toward the full bug-and-topwater season. Temperatures are running below average for the time of year — mornings in the mid-50s, daytime highs in the 70s — with additional rain in the forecast, conditions that have delayed the full topwater transition but kept the subsurface bite productive. Both baitfish and crayfish forage are developing on a normal seasonal schedule, a positive signal that the Susquehanna's mid-summer smallmouth pattern should build on pace.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow should I approach Pennsylvania smallmouth fishing during the early summer transition before topwater locks in?Shumaker recommends starting every outing with topwater to test whether fish are looking up, then shifting one or both anglers to subsurface presentations if the topside bite isn't firing. The split-rod approach — one angler on poppers, one on streamers or crayfish patterns — lets you gather mood data on the fish in real time without committing the whole boat to a single presentation.What does it mean when blue damsels start appearing on Pennsylvania smallmouth rivers?Blue damselfly activity is one of Shumaker's key biological indicators that the transition to sustained topwater fishing is imminent. Once damsels are showing, anglers can expect the bug-driven bite to ramp up, with the full insect-driven topwater game typically locking in by early July and continuing through the rest of the season.When is the best time of year to book a guided trip on the Susquehanna for smallmouth bass?While smallmouth are catchable throughout the warmer months, Shumaker and Marvin agree that late September and early October represent a particularly attractive window — fish are shade-seeking and the sun is brutal through July and August, but angler comfort improves meaningfully as temperatures cool heading into fall. Booking windows currently remain open in late July, August, September and October.Why is forage development tracking an important check early in the smallmouth season?An unusual spring can shift the timing of baitfish and crayfish cycles, which in turn affects when smallmouth transition between different feeding behaviors. Shumaker notes that forage on the Susquehanna is running on a normal seasonal progression — neither ahead nor behind — suggesting the full summer bite should build predictably even after a stretch of erratic weather.How do weather and water temperature swings affect the topwater bite on Pennsylvania smallmouth water?Cooling fronts that push temperatures back into the 70s after brief spells near 90 are enough to reset fish behavior and delay the sustained topwater bite. Precipitation that clouds the water adds another layer of suppression; under those conditions Shumaker defaults to subsurface presentations and waits for water to clear and temperatures to stabilize before committing heavily to poppers.Related ContentS8, Ep 39 - High Water Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania Smallmouth InsightsS8, Ep 34 - Frog Patterns and Fishing Strategies: Brian Shumaker's Late Spring Smallmouth ReportS8, Ep 31 - Chasing Smallmouth: Brian Shumaker's Adaptations for Unpredictable Spring WeatherS6, Ep 41 - Smallmouth Secrets and Streamer Savvy with Brendan RuchConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.
Episode 151 is one of those conversations that just flows. Captain Andrew Full of Full Fishing Guide Service out of Western New York joins the show for the 3rd time, and it didn't take long before we were deep into the stuff that actually matters — baits, big bass, and the kind of honest talk you don't always get on a fishing podcast. Andrew breaks down his approach to guiding for giants on Lake Erie and the Great Lakes system, what he's been throwing, and why some of the most overlooked baits are the ones putting fish in the boat. We also get into his decision to part ways with the Serious Angler Podcast — no drama, just real talk about where he's headed next.
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's podcast.Dan Johnston talks about being a steward of the outdoors. Jim Crowley from Slick Fish Radio gives us a summer update. Bill Schultz talks about catching over 35,000 smallmouth bass. He tells us his favorite lures and fishing rods.
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we head back to one of the most legendary smallmouth bass fisheries in the country: the New River. I'm joined by longtime guide Ethan Stone of New River Outdoor Company for a full summer smallmouth bass fishing breakdown.Ethan explains how the New River has been fishing after an unusually low-water spring, how post-spawn smallmouth are setting up, and why June can be one of the best topwater months of the entire year. We dive into current river conditions, water levels, low and clear water adjustments, and how to target both numbers of fish and true New River giants.If you fish for river smallmouth, this episode is packed with information on how to break down moving water, riffles, ledges, current seams, slow deep pools, grass beds, shade lines, and summertime feeding windows. Ethan also shares his thoughts on topwater baits, buzzbaits, Whopper Ploppers, wacky rigs, flukes, Ned rigs, Neko-style hellgrammites, natural presentations, and how to approach pressured New River smallmouth.We also discuss how bigger smallmouth use shallow fast water to feed, why they may still live in deeper pools during the summer, how grass and shade become key factors as the water warms, and what conditions usually produce the biggest fish of the summer.If you're looking for New River smallmouth fishing tips, summer river smallmouth patterns, topwater smallmouth bass techniques, New River fishing reports, or ways to catch more smallmouth in Virginia, this is an episode you do not want to miss.In this episode, we cover:Current New River fishing conditionsSummer smallmouth bass patternsPost-spawn smallmouth behaviorWhy June is a great topwater monthHow low, clear water changes the biteBest baits for New River smallmouthRiffles, ledges, current seams, grass, and shade linesHow big smallmouth use slow deep poolsBuzzbaits vs. Whopper PloppersWacky rigs, flukes, Ned rigs, and natural plasticsNew River forage including crawfish, hellgrammites, madtoms, bluegill, and rock bassWade fishing safety and summer river fishing adviceWhether you fish the New River, Shenandoah River, Upper Potomac, Susquehanna River, or any other smallmouth river in the Mid-Atlantic, this conversation will help you better understand how river smallmouth set up during the summer and how to catch them more consistently.Check out New River Outdoor Company if you want to book a guided smallmouth trip with Ethan Stone and experience one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries on the East Coast.Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon!!! https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com Check out New River Outdoor Company website down below: http://www.icanoethenew.com/?fbclid=IwAR0q8FzEE0cuPLY2epfs1b80nuRe88eGYZuCUCuVNzQ4YiT0shwiEPR66eANew River Outdoor Company phone number: 540-921-7438New River Outdoor Company email: info@newriveroutdoorco.comNew River Outdoor Company social media handles: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewRiverOutdoorCompany?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: https://instagram.com/newriveroutdoorco_?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Flint Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/43t8h5N Max4 Fishing: https://bit.ly/4unuiOsSupport the show
Is there really more than one species of smallmouth bass? This week on Outdoor Journal Radio, the crew dives into groundbreaking research suggesting the fish we all know may actually be made up of four distinct evolutionary lineages.Plus, University of Victoria PhD candidate Wesley Greenree joins the show to explain how everyday anglers are helping scientists study Chinook salmon by collecting stomach samples, revealing surprising changes in the Pacific food chain and what they could mean for the future of our fisheries.Also in this episode: Could British Columbia produce the next Canadian record largemouth bass? Clearing up misconceptions about Apple AirTags and Bluetooth tracking A fascinating Northern Ontario walleye tournament format Proper tick removal and Lyme disease prevention The latest Fishing Canada updates and new merchandise Whether you're a hardcore angler or just love learning about fish and conservation, this is one episode you won't want to miss.
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston talks about StCroix customer appreciation day June 20th in Park Falls, Wisconsin. Dave Kranz and Dan Johnston discuss the 10 year anniversary of the WeFishASA podcast!Bobby Dennis from Headhunter talks about new lures and being a WeFishASA podcast sponsor. Dave Kranz thanks podcast sponsors and recalls favorite podcast guests. Happy 10th anniversary. Thanks to all the listeners, guests and sponsors!
Send us Fan MailThis week on American Roots Outdoors, host Alex Rutledge and Redbone Rick sit down with 2024 RiverMasters Elite Series Classic Champion Rick York to break down everything you need to know about chasing river smallmouth bass in the Ozarks. Rick shares how these fish think like predators, where they hold in current, what they eat, and exactly how to present your baits to trigger strikes — from down baits and tube jigs to crankbaits and spinnerbaits. We also cover current events, the CRSA tournament results, Missouri's Free Fishing Weekend, and the first 2026 RiverMasters Elite Series tournament at Doniphan. Plus, stay for the bonus segment featuring fish fry recipes, a trout fishing report from the Eleven Point River, and more fun with the crew.Chapter Markers added:1:18 – Welcome & Current Events10:42 – Meet Rick York – 2024 RiverMasters Classic Champion19:09 – River Smallmouth: Behavior, Habitat & Diet27:53 – Smallmouth Fishing Techniques & Lure Presentation35:39 – Wrap-Up & River Masters Tournament Preview37:32 – Bonus: Recipes, Trout Fishing & Tournament TalkMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
MLF angler and renowned Lake St. Clair guide Scott Dobson joins Bass U Live to break down his approach to catching giant smallmouth bass. From locating schools and understanding seasonal movements to his favorite baits, setups, and on-the-water adjustments, Scott shares the techniques that have made him one of the top smallmouth specialists in the game. Whether you're chasing bronzebacks on the Great Lakes or your local fishery, this episode is packed with tips you can use to catch more smallmouth this season.
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I sit down with local angler Matt Fauver to discuss his journey into smallmouth bass fishing on the Upper Potomac River and his growing passion for tournament kayak fishing.First things first—I owe everyone an apology for this episode being released later than planned. After spending way too much time troubleshooting camera lag issues, I finally discovered the culprit: a dying camera battery! Thankfully, the technical problems are behind us because this conversation was absolutely worth the wait.Matt is relatively new to targeting smallmouth bass on the legendary Upper Potomac River, and it was refreshing to hear a beginner's perspective on learning one of the East Coast's premier river fisheries. We dive into what attracted him to chasing bronzebacks, the challenges of learning a new fishery, and the lessons he's picked up while fishing one of the best smallmouth bass rivers in the Mid-Atlantic.We also discuss the rapidly growing world of kayak bass fishing tournaments, including what it's like getting started, the gear and mindset needed to compete, and why kayak fishing continues to attract anglers from all experience levels. Whether you're considering your first kayak tournament or looking to improve your river fishing skills, Matt shares valuable insights from someone currently living the learning process.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Upper Potomac River smallmouth bass fishing • Beginner bass fishing tips and lessons learned • Kayak bass fishing fundamentals • Tournament kayak fishing strategies • River fishing techniques for smallmouth bass • Seasonal patterns on the Upper Potomac River • Fishing shallow rocky rivers from a kayak • Learning new fisheries as a bass angler • Potomac River bass fishing opportunities • Smallmouth bass behavior and habitat • Kayak tournament preparation and equipment • How new anglers can get started in competitive fishingIf you're interested in smallmouth bass fishing, kayak fishing, river fishing, bass fishing for beginners, or learning more about the legendary Upper Potomac River fishery, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Please support Fishing the DMV by subscribing, sharing this episode with a fellow angler, and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform.Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon!! https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcastIf you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Flint Financial Planning: https://www.flintfinancialplanning.com/Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Alex Rutledge and Redbone sit down with Chef Corey Freeman — a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, apple orchard owner, and passionate hunter on a mission to harvest a wild turkey in all 49 states. Corey shares what it was like cooking at turkey camp alongside Tyler Farr, breaks down his Japanese-inspired wild turkey karaage don, apple cider glazed pork chops, and fire-grilled tomahawk steaks and wagyu. He talks about the pressures of hunting public land, the art of sounding different than every other hunter in the woods, and why slowing down — especially in the woods with his four-year-old daughter — has become his greatest harvest. Plus: a big announcement about turkey camps with Tyler Farr, and a bonus segment with Corey's smoked ricotta quail egg ravioli recipe straight from Italy.1:46 – Show Open & Local News10:01 – Meet Chef Corey Freeman – Hunting Chef Chasing 49 States10:29 – Taher Food Service & Cooking from Scratch in Schools16:35 – Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chop Recipe19:59 – Turkey Camp with Tyler Farr – Karaage Don & Tomahawk Steaks27:26 – Turkey Hunting Tactics & The Chase for 49 States30:08 – Best Hunt of the Spring – Corey's Daughter & Two-State Day33:03 – Turkey Camps with Tyler Farr Announcement39:55 – Bonus Segment – Smoked Ricotta Quail Egg Ravioli RecipeMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewIn this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash reconnects with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for an early-June conditions check on the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania. Recent heavy rainfall pushed both systems well above normal — the Susquehanna approaching 12 feet, the Juniata topping 10 — and Brian breaks down how he's fishing the receding flows and what anglers can expect as the post-spawn transition plays out through summer.Brian walks through his high-water strategy in practical terms: pounding banks where rising water has pushed smallmouth tight to structure, reading fish mood through fly rotation, and knowing when to abandon streamers in favor of crayfish patterns on the bottom when visibility collapses. He explains his color logic for stained water — bigger profiles, darker tones when the water is heavily colored, lighter options as clarity returns — and how he uses river gauge readings in feet rather than CFS to make positioning decisions on the water. The conversation also looks ahead to the summer outlook, contrasting the good-conditions scenario if periodic rains continue with the low, clear, finesse-game reality that sets in by mid-July in a dry year, and confirms that Fourth of July remains the reliable benchmark for prime topwater smallmouth fishing with poppers on the Susquehanna system.Key TakeawaysHow to keep smallmouth in play during high flows by targeting bank structure where rising water has concentrated fish.Why fly color selection should track water clarity — blacks and purples in heavy stain, transitioning to olives and lighter colors as visibility improves.When to commit fully to bottom-fished crayfish patterns rather than continuing to work streamers in severely off-color conditions.How Brian Shumaker uses river gauge height in feet — not CFS — as his primary decision tool for positioning anglers relative to bank structure and grass beds.Why rotating through as many as a dozen and a half fly patterns in a single session is sometimes necessary to crack the post-spawn "June funk."When to expect prime topwater action on the Susquehanna system, and how a dry summer shifts the game to long casts, stealth and finesse presentations by mid-July.Techniques & Gear CoveredBrian Shumaker's approach to high, dirty water on the Susquehanna and Juniata centers on two core tactics: larger-profile streamers fished tight to bank structure and mid-river features, and crayfish patterns worked on the bottom when visibility drops low enough to make streamer fishing inefficient. Fly color selection is deliberately calibrated to water clarity — blacks and purples in the dirtiest conditions, with oranges, olives and lighter tones becoming viable as the water clears. Brian notes he doesn't rely heavily on rattles despite the conditions, keeping his confidence in profile and color adjustments instead. On the topwater front, he and Marvin discuss poppers, Murdich Minnows and Shimmering Minnows as the primary summer surface and near-surface options once fish fully exit the post-spawn doldrums. Across the board, Brian emphasizes a high-volume fly rotation — sometimes six flies on a good day, sometimes eighteen — as the diagnostic tool for reading fish mood under the unpredictable early-summer conditions.Locations & SpeciesThis report centers on two of Central Pennsylvania's premier smallmouth systems: the Susquehanna River and the Juniata River. Recent rainfall events pushed the Susquehanna to nearly 12 feet and the Juniata past 10 feet; at recording time the Susquehanna had receded into fishable shape with good water from the west bank to mid-river, while the east side remained off-color and the Juniata was still heavily stained but dropping. The target species throughout is smallmouth bass, with fish spread across a spectrum of post-spawn recovery stages in early June — some already fully recovered, others still normalizing. Brian's outlook for late July and early August hinges on whether the eastern seaboard's dry pattern reasserts itself: adequate rainfall means prime conditions, while a dry stretch could produce bony, clear, low-water rivers by mid-July that demand a completely different approach.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you approach streamer fishing when the Susquehanna or Juniata is running high and dirty?Brian Shumaker focuses on a bigger fly profile and adjusts color based on how much stain is in the water. In the heaviest color, blacks and purples are his go-to; as visibility improves, he moves toward olives and lighter tones. He targets banks where rising water has pushed fish tight to structure, while also covering mid-river features when conditions allow.When is it time to abandon streamers and go to crayfish on the bottom?When water is severely off-color and visibility is minimal, Brian moves straight to crayfish patterns fished on the bottom. In those conditions, the streamer game becomes inefficient, and a bottom presentation where fish are holding near structure is the more reliable path to bites.How does Brian use river gauge readings to make fishing decisions?Brian tracks both rivers by height in feet — old school, as he puts it, rather than CFS — which tells him where the water sits relative to bank structure. That reading determines whether he needs to fish hard against the bank or can pull off slightly, and on the Susquehanna it factors in whether emerging grass beds are worth targeting as conditions clear.What should anglers expect from the post-spawn "June funk" on Pennsylvania smallmouth rivers?The June post-spawn period produces inconsistent fish behavior as smallmouth recover and begin feeding more actively. Brian describes it as a rotation game — he may cycle through six flies on a cooperative day and eighteen on a tough one, simply working through options until something triggers a response. Patience and a deep fly selection are the keys.When does reliable topwater smallmouth fishing begin on the Susquehanna, and what changes that timeline?Brian pegs the Fourth of July as the traditional start of prime topwater action with poppers and surface patterns. That holds if periodic rainfall keeps flows reasonable through summer. A dry stretch that leaves the river bony, skinny and clear by mid-July shifts the game entirely — long casts, stealth and finesse presentations replace the aggressive topwater bite.Related ContentS8, Ep 31 – Chasing Smallmouth: Brian Shumaker's Adaptations for Unpredictable Spring WeatherS8, Ep 27 – The Pre-Spawn Puzzle: Captain Brian Shumaker's Tips for Pennsylvania SmallmouthS8, Ep 29 – Fishing in Flux: Matt Reilly's Take on Spring Trends and TechniquesS7, Ep 52 – The Summer Shift: Adapting Your Fly Game with Brendan RuchS1, Ep 97 – All Things Smallmouth with Mike SchultzConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast...
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. St Croix Ambassador Mark Hanson talks about the rods he use on his recent Canadian trip. Joe Opager Senior Director of Communications for MLF gives us a mid season update. Jack Story wins 100,000.00 payday and entry to the 2027 RedCrest tournament. He will tell us how he got that job done!
On this episode of The Wisconsin Sportsman, Pierce is joined by Tony Peterson to dive into the world of Mississippi River smallmouth fishing! Tony is an outdoor writer, public land hunter, and Minnesota-native who grew up hunting and fishing around the Mississippi River, since then he's competed in countless bass tournaments both on the river and around the Midwest. In this episode, the guys dive into finding big trout in unclassified waters, how to break down the Mississippi into manageable chunks, fish consciousness, types of structure smallmouth are likely to relate to, different lures for different types of water, the importance of non-intrusive fishing, and much more. If you're ready for a new kind of fishing adventure this summer, this episode is for you! Huge thanks to Tony for coming on the show! Check out the great podcasts he's putting out over on the Wired to Hunt: Foundations podcast, and if you're looking for a great summer read, pick up a copy of his book, Bowhunting Public Land Whitetails to gear up for fall! Big thanks to our fantastic partners: Lone Wolf Custom Gear: www.lonewolfcustomgear.com onX Hunt: www.onxmaps.com Huntworth: www.huntworthgear.com Good Chance Fly Fishing: www.goodchanceflyfishing.com Wisconsin Backcountry Hunters & Anglers: www.backcountryhunters.org/wisconsin Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Episode OverviewIn this Southwest Virginia Fishing Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with guide Matt Reilly of Matt Reilly Fly Fishing for a candid late-spring conditions update covering the post-spawn transition, dirty water tactics and the seasonal arc ahead. Recorded amid rising, stained flows on the New River and surrounding drainages — following months of below-average flows — the episode captures a moment when Southwest Virginia smallmouth fishing is firmly in between patterns, and angler adaptability is the only reliable edge. Reilly addresses the dual pressure facing anglers right now: a post-spawn funk settling over fish on some waters while others remain slightly earlier in that arc, and high, off-color water shrinking reactive distances and pushing fish to the bottom. He details how an early crayfish molt — triggered by unusually warm water temps in the low-to-mid 70s weeks ahead of schedule — has shifted his focus away from streamer presentations and toward bottom-contact crayfish patterns on fish that are otherwise visible but unmovable on top. Reilly also previews the seasonal calendar ahead, sketching the transition through a late-May/June baitfish bite, crayfish activity and eventually the cleaner, lower-water conditions that make topwater the dominant game — typically not until around the Fourth of July. Guide availability closes the episode, with Reilly noting his summer calendar is fully booked and early October representing the next realistic opportunity for prospective clients.Key TakeawaysHow to identify the post-spawn funk by its signature symptom: cycling rapidly through multiple fly types with sporadic, pattern-less catches.Why bottom-contact crayfish patterns outperform streamers and topwater when smallmouth are locked down during an early crayfish molt.How to approach high, stained water when flows are elevated but not extreme — targeting the bottom rather than automatically moving to the banks, because fish can spread across mid-river structure when current isn't pushing them to the edges.Why an early summer crayfish molt can pull even cruising, visible fish away from topwater presentations and onto gravel-bar bottom feeding.When to expect the seasonal transition to more consistent patterns: a late-May/June baitfish bite followed by bug-fishing conditions that typically don't fully materialize until around the Fourth of July.Techniques & Gear CoveredReilly runs multiple rods in the boat simultaneously — a floating line with a topwater bug, an intermediate-tip with a streamer and a floater rigged with a crayfish — to rotate through presentations efficiently when no single pattern dominates. In dirty, elevated water he emphasizes making bottom contact as the primary directive, noting that smallmouth research documents a behavioral shift toward bottom-oriented hunting when turbidity increases. Crayfish patterns are the anchor of his current program given the early molt activity, with darker, high-contrast and flashier fly choices appropriate for off-color conditions. Streamer fishing remains part of the rotation but Reilly is candid that listening to what the fish show you — even when it conflicts with your instinct — is the overriding tactical discipline during transitional windows.Locations & SpeciesThe episode centers on Southwest Virginia's river systems, with the New River specifically mentioned as the water Reilly was guiding on the day of recording. The New is described as deteriorating during the conversation — elevated and stained from recent rainfall — but holding up better than surrounding rivers that Reilly characterizes as borderline blown out. Smallmouth bass are the sole target species discussed. Conditions at time of recording include water temperatures already touching the mid-70s — well ahead of the typical early June arrival of such temps — and flow levels running significantly below seasonal averages for the year before recent rains, creating a compressed, accelerated seasonal arc that has pushed crayfish molt timing and post-spawn transitions out of seasonal norms.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you know when you're in the post-spawn funk and what do you do about it?Reilly identifies the funk by a tell-tale pattern: you start with one fly, catch one fish, slow down, switch flies, catch another, slow down again, and end the day with six wet flies of five different types drying on the boat bag. When that's happening, he leans on instinct — reading the water type in front of him and putting his best guess forward — while staying honest about whether a presentation isn't working or just needs more time. He acknowledges it's sometimes simply tough and you have to grind through it.Why would you target the bottom in high, stained water rather than moving to the banks?When water is elevated but not high enough to concentrate fish in bank-side slack water, smallmouth can spread broadly across mid-river structure — and increased turbidity shrinks reactive distances significantly. Reilly points to behavioral research showing smallmouth shift to bottom-oriented hunting in dirty water. Getting a fly to the bottom gives fish a plane they can reliably relate to even when visibility is poor, and on the day of recording it was the only approach consistently producing.What triggers a crayfish molt and why does it pull fish off topwater?Early warm water — Reilly observed low-to-mid-70s temperatures weeks ahead of the typical mid- to late-June timing — accelerates crayfish shedding their shells, making them soft and highly vulnerable. Even smallmouth that would otherwise be ideal topwater candidates were cruising shallow gravel bars but locked to the bottom, unwilling to come up. Once you see that behavior, Reilly says you have to accept it and feed them crayfish regardless of how tempting topwater looks.When does consistent topwater fishing typically kick in for Southwest Virginia smallmouth?Reilly frames late May through mid-June as a transitional window featuring a baitfish bite (non-game fish like darters and chubs spawning, creating forage) interspersed with molting crayfish activity. Reliable topwater conditions — when it becomes the path-of-least-resistance strategy rather than just a fun option — typically don't arrive until water temperatures and flows settle in the summer, usually around the Fourth of July, assuming conditions don't remain abnormally low and clear even sooner.What does Matt Reilly's fall guide calendar look like, and what should you expect booking-wise?As of this recording Reilly's summer is fully booked, with early October being the next available window. He describes October as a mixed bag: possible hurricane-driven high water and strong streamer fishing, or a continuation of summer patterns depending on the year — but consistently a period when big fish show up in the first couple weeks before his focus shifts entirely to musky season.Related ContentS8, Ep 29 – Fishing in Flux: Matt Reilly's Take on Spring Trends and TechniquesS8, Ep 23 – Low Water Chronicles: Matt Reilly on Pre-Spawn Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal ShiftsS6, Ep 112 – Smallmouth Transitions and Musky Prep: Matt Reilly's Southwest VA UpdateS6, Ep 71 – Adapting to Heat and Low Flows: A Southwest Virginia Fishing Report with Matt ReillyConnect with Our GuestFollow Matt on Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our
Chris Lawrence previews an upcoming episode documenting the best fishing day of his life — a two-day Lake Erie smallmouth trip with Ed Powell that produced 75 to 100 fish, including multiple bass over four pounds — before settling into two guests with West Virginia river news. Pete Runyon of Friends of the Tug Fork River joins to update listeners on the group's annual Tug of War tire cleanup, which has now removed more than 19,000 tires from the river since 2019, along with new access improvements, a trash interceptor at Laurel Lake, and an upcoming youth paddle camp on June 6th. DNR Assistant Chief of Fisheries Dave Wellman then covers the Ohio River's current upswing in bass fishing, explaining how stable spring flows and mild winters over the past several years have improved recruitment and fish size, the challenge of silting backwater embayments that limit largemouth habitat, and the tools — stocking, habitat improvement, and regulation — the agency is currently evaluating to sustain and improve the fishery.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Redbone welcome Kentucky Headhunters co-founder Richard Young straight from a tomato plant run in Glasgow, Kentucky. Richard delivers a masterclass in Southern storytelling — from brother Fred's midnight tractor rides and his collection of 50 antique machines with only 4 batteries, to the band's history-making leap from a Kentucky holler to Sweden Rock Festival (opening three slots before Queen) and sold-out UK arena runs alongside Blackstone Cherry. We also get into turkey hunting on the creek, a surprise bear sighting, and cousin Johnny's electric-bike stealth hunting strategy. After Richard heads off for tomato plants, Alex breaks down a monster spring turkey season — 29 gobblers called in across five states — plus a deep dive into Missouri's #2 national turkey harvest ranking. The show wraps with a full wild turkey recipe segment: BBQ breast with Cajun Injector, brine techniques, and Chick-fil-A-style turkey nuggets. The Kentucky Headhunters play Salem, Arkansas' Fulton County Homecoming (77 years strong) this Saturday night.Chapter Markers1:29 – Intro & Kentucky Headhunters Coming to Salem, AR1:55 – Richard Young Joins: Farm Life, Fred's Tractors & Garden Stories15:04 – Kentucky Headhunters Go International: Conquering Sweden Rock & the UK24:47 – Richard's Turkey Hunt, Bears on the Farm & Electric Bike Hunting29:46 – Wrapping Up with Richard Young30:57 – Life After the Spotlight: Alex & Redbone Reflect34:00 – Alex's Spring Turkey Season: 29 Gobblers in 5 StatesMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
We're back with the man who just quit his career in the fly fishing industry to become Beaver Lake's only full-time fly fishing guide. → Join other Ozarkers in our Patreon - The Holler → Get weekly updates, show notes, and stories in our NEWSLETTER Part two with Dan Roberts gets tactical — and it doesn't disappoint. Dan walks through exactly how to fly fish for crappie using a game-changing indicator setup, breaks down the pre-spawn and post-spawn bass bite, and reveals why spotted bass might be the most underrated fly fishing target in the Ozarks. Whether you're a beginner wanting a confidence-building species or a seasoned angler ready to chase topwater strikes, there's something here for every skill level. Together with... Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks 0:00 – Recap & What We're Covering: Species & Tactics on Beaver Lake 1:30 – Crappie on the Fly: The Easiest Entry Point Into Still Water Fishing 5:30 – Dan's Secret Indicator Setup 10:00 – Bass Season Breakdown: Pre-Spawn Streamers to Post-Spawn Topwater 14:00 – Spotted Bass, Smallmouth & the Four Bass Species in Beaver Lake 20:00 – Walleye, White Bass & Everything Else Worth Chasing on the Fly What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett, and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston talks about why new baits work. Tom Lang tells us how to participate in Take A Friend Fishing Month. Alex Davis just won 100,000.00 on Lay Lake! Listen to how he got that done.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge wraps up his Turkey Tour of the Northeast, sharing stories from turkey hunts at First Class Whitetails in PA, a tough morning in Maryland with David Zook, and a close encounter on retired Eagles linebacker Trent Cole's New Jersey farm. Alex sits down live with Jason Lapp, National Sales Manager for 12 Point Hunting Blinds, at their headquarters in Gap, PA to unveil the brand-new Watchtower blind — an innovative hunting blind inspired by airport air traffic control towers. The guys also cover MLB standings, Missouri's spring turkey harvest numbers, Zook Cabins, the Hunting Plot Store's full habitat services, and cap it off with wild turkey recipes including Chick-fil-A style nuggets, smoked turkey breast, and the great Alfredo debate.Chapter Markers Added:0:00 – Intro: The Watchtower Blind Teaser1:47 – Show Opens: Live from 12 Point Hunting Blinds, Gap PA2:21 – Current Events: MLB Baseball Talk (Cardinals, Royals, Phillies)5:38 – Turkey Tour Northeast Recap: First Class Whitetails & Maryland Hunt7:35 – Missouri Spring Turkey Harvest Numbers19:31 – Segment 2: Zook Cabins & Maryland Turkey Hunt Story23:26 – Introducing the Watchtower: The New 12 Point Hunting Blind28:31 – Segment 3: 12 Point Blind Features, Warranty & Dealer Expansion40:10 – Segment 4: Wild Turkey RecipesMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewIn this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash reconnects with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for a timely late-spring conditions check on the Susquehanna River system. The frog bite has been exceptional — two solid weeks of deer hair bug action — and Brian breaks down exactly how to rig, dress and present deer hair frogs for surface-eating smallmouth before the post-spawn funk sets in. Beyond the fishing report, Marvin turns the episode over to a listener question from Myles, a college angler eyeing a career in guiding, and Brian delivers a candid, experience-rich breakdown of how to break into and build longevity in the guide game. Brian's own path — 40-plus years as a union electrician running parallel to a decades-long guiding career on the Susquehanna, with Bob Clouser as a key early mentor — frames the conversation in practical terms. The dual-career model, the reality of weather-dependent income, the roughly 10-year timeline to build a dependable client base, and the value of humility with clients all get real treatment here. This episode delivers useful tactical information for smallmouth anglers targeting the frog bite while also offering one of the most grounded, experience-backed discussions of guide career structure the show has produced.Key TakeawaysHow to select and prepare deer hair frog patterns — including applying resin to the belly for proper orientation — to maximize floatation and presentation during the late-spring frog bite on Pennsylvania smallmouth rivers.Why the frog bite window is typically compressed into the first few weeks of May under normal conditions, and how unseasonable heat and weather swings can extend or disrupt that window.When to adjust expectations after the spawn: the first three weeks of June typically produce slower, more selective fishing as post-spawn fish recuperate, though early-spawn fish may already be active.How to build a dedicated leader system for deer hair frogs — an 8-foot tapered construction stepping from 40-pound to 16-pound with a barrel swivel — that turns large surface flies over cleanly.Why building a guide career alongside a stable parallel career is a realistic and financially sound path, with Brian's union electrician model illustrating how to stage the transition over roughly 10 years.How to break into guiding by starting through local fly shops, connecting with independent guides as mentors or attending a structured guide school — with humility and client service as the non-negotiable foundation.Techniques & Gear CoveredThe episode centers on top water fly fishing for smallmouth bass during the late-spring frog bite, with deer hair frogs — specifically the Umpqua swimming frog — as Brian's primary choice, supplemented by green blockhead poppers and green boogle bugs as accessible alternatives. Brian details his prep routine: applying resin to the belly of deer hair frogs to ensure the fly lands face-up, belly-down, and using a powder floatant (such as High and Dry) to maintain buoyancy throughout the day. For the leader, Brian constructs an 8-foot system stepping from 2 feet of 40-pound down through 30-pound and 25-pound sections, then 18 inches of 20-pound, a barrel swivel and an 18-inch tippet of 16-pound — a setup designed to turn over wind-resistant deer hair patterns without sacrificing control. His preferred fly line for the frog game is the Scientific Anglers Amplitude Bass Bug Taper, chosen for its ability to load quickly and deliver bulky flies accurately. The deer hair frog presentation is described as a highly visual game: the fly is watched throughout the retrieve, with the surface eat being the primary reward and tactical cue.Locations & SpeciesThe episode focuses on the Susquehanna River system in Central and South Central Pennsylvania, the home water of Susquehanna River Guides. Smallmouth bass are the exclusive target species discussed, specifically in the context of the late-spring frog bite and the post-spawn transition. Brian notes that under normal seasonal conditions, the frog bite runs from early to late May before the first three weeks of June bring slower, post-spawn fishing as fish recuperate from the spawn. The episode also touches on how erratic spring weather — extended heat waves followed by sharp cooldowns and potential rainfall — can compress or disrupt the frog window and push the spawn cycle off its typical rhythm. These conditions and species dynamics are broadly applicable to any angler fishing for smallmouth on mid-Atlantic river systems.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat is the best fly pattern and presentation for the late-spring smallmouth frog bite in Pennsylvania?Brian Shumaker's go-to is the Umpqua swimming frog, with green blockhead poppers and green boogle bugs as workable alternatives when deer hair patterns aren't available. He emphasizes that the frog game at this time of year is a visual experience — watching the fly, watching the eat — and that having the fly properly oriented (face-up, belly-down) through resin treatment and a powder floatant keeps the presentation clean and fishing effectively throughout a day on the water.How do you rig a leader for casting deer hair frog patterns on a fly rod?Brian builds an 8-foot tapered leader starting with 2 feet of 40-pound, stepping down through 2 feet of 30-pound and 2 feet of 25-pound, then 18 inches of 20-pound, a barrel swivel and a final 18-inch section of 16-pound tippet. The taper allows the heavy, wind-resistant deer hair fly to turn over cleanly, and the barrel swivel reduces line twist during the retrieve. He pairs this system with the Scientific Anglers Amplitude Bass Bug Taper fly line.How long does the frog bite window typically last for Pennsylvania smallmouth, and what ends it?Under normal conditions, Brian says the frog bite starts around the beginning of May and runs through the end of May — roughly a four-week window. Post-spawn funk among June fish and the shift to summer patterns typically close the most productive surface action. This year, an erratic spring with heat waves and sharp temperature drops has made the window less predictable, and incoming rainfall may affect how much of the frog bite remains.What is the best way to break into the fly fishing guide profession?Brian recommends starting by approaching local fly shops about guide training opportunities, or connecting with established independent guides who may be willing to take on a mentee. Guide schools — typically two-week programs often run in the West — provide certification that carries weight with outfitters. The most important qualities, in Brian's experience, are humility and a genuine commitment to the client experience. He credits Bob Clouser as a critical mentor in his own career, while acknowledging that not everyone will have access to that level of mentorship.How long does it realistically take to build a viable guiding career, and how do you manage financial risk along the way?Brian's honest answer is about 10 years to build a client base substantial enough to feel comfortable leaving a parallel career for the guiding season. He ran a union electrician career alongside his guiding work for decades, which gave him the flexibility to ramp up guiding progressively without the full financial exposure of going all-in immediately. He compares guiding to farming in terms of weather dependency — wet springs, low summer flows and drought conditions can all eliminate weeks of booked trips — and emphasizes that the income risk is real and not suited to everyone.Related ContentS8, Ep 31: Chasing Smallmouth: Brian Shumaker's Adaptations for Unpredictable Spring WeatherS8, Ep 27: The Pre-Spawn Puzzle: Captain Brian Shumaker's Tips for Pennsylvania SmallmouthS1, Ep 97: All Things Smallmouth with Mike SchultzS7, Ep 33: Nut Jobs and Chimichangas: A PA Smallmouth Update with Brendan RuchConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our
Smallmouth bass aren't just aggressive they're strategic. Jake Villwock breaks down how to consistently catch more fish by targeting all three feeding zones: topwater, mid-column, and bottom. He reveals how modern fly design—from foam bugs to articulated baitfish and lifelike crayfish has transformed the game. Whether you're chasing explosive surface eats or dialing in subsurface tactics, you'll learn how to fish smarter, adapt faster, and unlock the full potential of smallmouth on the fly.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and co-host Mike "Redbone" Crase call in live from 1st Class Whitetails in Rutland, Ohio, for Turkey Camp 2026. Joining the show are hunter Jason Weekley — a former professional rodeo roper turned farrier from Florida — and digital marketing pro Sam Santorita of Sharp Line Growth Media. The crew recaps three days of grinding Ohio Easterns, including a heart-pounding morning where a big long beard came in hot at 25 yards... only to walk away with a limp (and a nickname). Plus: Cardinals and Royals baseball, the Chiefs' offseason, Missouri elk and bear permits, a Hannah Harper/American Idol shoutout, and a bonus recipe segment featuring jalapeño bacon poppers, butter-fried turkey strips, and the great air fryer debate.Chapter Markers added:0:00 – Welcome & Hunt Recap Intro3:03 – Sports Talk: Cardinals, Royals & Chiefs4:20 – High School Sports & Missouri Elk/Bear Permits8:40 – Jason Weekley – Florida Boy, Pro Rodeo & Turkey Obsession13:20 – Day 1: Six Miles & No Turkeys16:06 – Day 2: Gobblers in the Canyon & the Shot That Wasn't19:24 – Day 3 Morning: Limp Leroy & the Miss Heard 'Round Ohio26:33 – Sam's Marketing Business & Camp Wrap-Up28:20 – Farrier Life: High-End Horses vs. Yard Darts34:55 – Looking Ahead: Day 3 Evening Hunt & Closing37:57 – BONUS: Wild Turkey Recipes44:11 – Hannah Harper & American Idol Shoutout
Frank talks about targeting early season smallmouth.
© 2020-2026 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
