First, a quick story: I swung by to say hello to my bearded chums in Montgomery. We talked about our upcoming projects, and I showed them some pictures. My man Sam and the boys make beautiful cabinets. After the meeting, I made a quick call. I had to drop off some accessories on the South Side on the way home. I was ten minutes out.

I pushed the start button, and nothing turned. I tried it again, and the same result. I totally lost it. Sam came outside and asked why I was swearing in old English. I reached out to my fellow gearheads. They suggested a jump. Sam said he had some cables nearby. Unfortunately, there were no other vehicles on the lot—only some horses. Oh, I actually thought about it.

I was completely stranded. I had a dead battery at an Amish Cab Shop. You seriously can’t make this up—only me, sports fans. But life is good. I was rescued. I got jumped. Okay, back to some fishing adventures.

There is no need to travel as we are super spoiled. I do 95% of my fishing right here in Lycoming County. Some of my best spots are just a short drive from the homestead. July is when I usually make the transition to one of my favorites. The water is rather low, and the temperatures are up. Lycoming Creek isn’t bad, but the conditions aren’t ideal for trout.

I put my waders away and switched to the spinning outfit. I use an ultralight with a 4lb test on Lycoming. My friends will use a fly rod, but I am not quite there yet. It’s the perfect time to target the Smallmouth bass. Pound for pound, these bass are the fiercest game fish. Their strength and might are somewhat legendary. We sometimes call them Bronzebacks. They are extremely popular with the locals. The Smallmouth fishing in North Central PA is fantastic. They are well known for their above-the-water dramatics.

Smallmouths are very carnivorous. They feed on tadpoles, insects, other fish, and especially crayfish. They can adapt to sudden changes, and these fish are more versatile than our trout. Smallmouths are always on the move. They will migrate to find deeper waters to “chill” during winter. It is said that one may travel 30 miles during the change of seasons.

Bronzebacks can be caught using a variety of methods. Anglers have many options. Natural baits always work. Some prefer soft plastics. Others throw crank baits. I am a huge fan of using topwater plugs. Regardless, brace yourself as these fish put up an impressive fight.

I had some luck near Historic Bowman Field this week. I had the entire stretch and landed two monsters in the early innings. Go Cutters! This time of year, you will see me fishing in the city. That’s me walking back to the car on Lycoming Creek Road. I’m also that guy who hangs out in the Heshbon. All of the bridges. 973. High Street. Memorial and 4th. I am always surprised by the quality of fishing in our backyard.

All fishing is noble, but landing a decent Smallmouth on a topwater plug is my favorite. Then, you consider the location. Only a few minutes from the homestead. Montoursville’s Rob Thomas is in the background. You will hear an occasional TIMBER. It is fantastic. Great stuff. Happy 4th. Cheers.