There is no need to travel, as we are extremely spoiled. Yes. I do 95% of my fishing right here in Lycoming County. Some of my favorite spots are a short drive from the homestead. July is when I completely change my setup. I focus more on the summer Smallmouth. The water temperatures are up, and the conditions are no longer ideal for trout.
I replaced my waders with a pair of shorts. I have some new wading shoes that I found at Walmart. I go back to my trusty spinning gear. I use an ultralight rod with 4 lb. test. My friends will still use a fly rod, but I am not quite there. It is a different animal when you are throwing bugs for bass. It is the perfect time to target the Smallmouth. Pound for pound, these guys are the fiercest game fish. They are the top local prize. Their strength and might are legendary. We sometimes call them Bronzebacks. They are very popular and extra fun to catch. The Smallmouth fishing in North Central PA is fantastic. The Susquehanna is loaded, but I prefer to spend my time on Lycoming. Sometimes I will even venture over to the Loyalsock. My man, Dave Heaps, was going to do some research.
Smallmouths are very carnivorous. They feed on tadpoles, insects, other fish, and especially crayfish. They can adapt to sudden changes. These fish are super tough and are more versatile than those trout. They are known for their above-the-water dramatics. Smallmouths are extremely aggressive and put up a fight. They have a slender, long body that is green to bronze in color. Their jaw reaches the middle of their red eyes. Smallmouths prefer clear, rocky habitats in lakes, impoundments, and small to medium-sized streams and rivers.
Bronzebacks are always on the move. It is said that one may travel 30 miles during the year. They will migrate to find deeper waters to “chill” during the winter. They become much more active in the spring. Smallmouths tend to spawn in April and May. They will head back to the creeks in the summer. Perfect timing. You will find them in faster-flowing sections with gravel or rubble bottoms, as well as in deeper pools with current.
Smallmouths can be caught using a variety of methods. Anglers have several options. Natural baits like worms, minnows, and hellgrammites will always work. Some prefer jigs and plastics. Others throw expensive crankbaits. I am a huge fan of the topwater plugs. I use a lot of Heddon Torpedoes. These floating props mimic a distressed bait fish or a wounded frog. Regardless of what you throw. Brace yourself. These fish always put up an impressive fight.
Jensen and I snuck out over the weekend. Three straight days of fishing. Teach and I were both shocked that he wanted to tag along. We had some success in the backyard Friday. The same on Saturday and Sunday. Chucking our torpedoes for some Smallies. Nothing to brag about. But a little bit of action was all that he needed. My son even took his bike and pole to the crick on Monday. No way.
What is happening?
Great time of year, folks. Yes. You may see us from time to time. That’s us walking back to the car on Lycoming Creek Road. I am also that guy hanging out on the Heshbon. Every bridge. 973. High Street. Memorial. 4th. Go Cutters. Stop by and say hi. I am constantly amazed by the quality of fishing nearby. I love catching trout, but landing a Smallmouth Bass within the City limits is always a blast.
Give it a try. Cheers.
