Wired2fish’s Nick Dumke explains how to target clear-water smallmouth bass during the summer using finesse minnow-imitating plastics. Ultra-realistic minnow baits such as the Great Lakes Finesse Drop Minnow allow savvy anglers to target smallmouth keyed on baitfish. He expands the content with insights into bait selection, his preferred rod setup, and how to leverage your fish finders for maximum effectiveness.
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UNDERSTANDING SMALLMOUTH BEHAVIOR
In the summer, smallmouth bass in the Great Lakes states actively roam in search of forage, such as shiner minnows, crayfish, and perch. Dumke explains how these fish become nomadic, chasing their food source and often suspending over deeper waters. Using forward-facing sonar, he locates bait balls and positions his minnow baits to stay just above the fish, effectively imitating their forage and triggering bites.
EFFECTIVE BAIT PRESENTATION
Dumke emphasizes the importance of using light jig heads to keep the presentation high in the water column. This approach mimics the natural orientation and movement of baitfish while the bait’s realism fools discerning fish. He discusses the different head and body styles of minnow baits and adjusts his setup based on the depth and behavior of the fish. Whether using an eighth-ounce jig for shallow waters or a heavier head for deeper zones, Dumke keeps his bait in the strike zone.
OPTIMAL GEAR FOR SMALLMOUTH FISHING
Selecting the right gear is crucial for successful smallmouth bass fishing. Dumke recommends a medium-light rod with a soft tip to enhance bait action and sensitivity for this finesse minnow technique. A light 8-pound braided mainline to an 8-pound fluorocarbon leader provides the finesse, sensitivity, and strength to detect subtle bites and land fish. Dumke uses a 2500 to 3000-size reel with a smooth drag system to handle powerful runs from super-charged smallmouth.
CONSTANT MOVEMENT FOR ACTIVE FISH
Dumke stresses the importance of staying mobile and continuously searching for active fish. Using his trolling motor on high, he moves from spot to spot, casting to visible fish and quickly adjusting if they don’t bite immediately. This strategy maximizes his chances of finding and triggering aggressive smallmouth. By understanding smallmouth behavior, perfecting bait presentation, and using the right gear, you’ll be well-equipped to target summer smallmouth bass.
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Ben Swanson
Ben Swanson graduated from St. John’s University in 2024 with a degree in Communications and a minor in Environmental Studies. A lifelong avid fisherman, Ben has a keen eye for photography and video production, picking up a camera at a young age and improving on his ability to create with it as the years went on. During high school at Minnetonka, Ben and a few friends started the Minnetonka Fishing Team. This allowed Ben and teammates to fish tournaments throughout the state against the likes of Grand Rapids, Lakeville, and more. He made many friends during the experience, while winning tourneys on Leech Lake, Mille Lacs, and Minnetonka. In college, Ben was the social media manager for the school’s Ducks Unlimited chapter and helped run an annual banquet and spring bingo event.
