Ice out smallmouth is an exciting time for bass anglers. As the fish start to migrate from deeper waters to shallower areas, they become more active and hungry. In this article, we will discuss the best baits and techniques to use during this early season and share some tips from experienced anglers.
Must-Have Baits for Early Season
When it comes to lure selection during the early season, it’s important to think about horizontal running lures. In this article, we will discuss the best baits and techniques to use during the ice out season for smallmouth bass fishing. Ice out is an exciting time as the fish start to migrate from deeper waters to shallower areas, becoming more active and hungry. We will share some tips from experienced anglers to help you have a successful fishing season.
Understanding the Migration
During the winter months, smallmouth bass tend to stay in deeper waters. However, as the ice melts and the water temperature starts to rise, they begin their migration towards shallower areas. These shallow areas serve as their contact points before they move up to spawn on structures like flats with big boulders. 
The main migration route for these fish is often along drop-offs that lead from deep water to shallower areas. Anglers can take advantage of this by targeting these contact points where the fish are likely to gather.
Must-Have Baits for Early Season
When it comes to bait selection during the early season, it’s important to think about horizontal running lures. These lures are effective in water temperatures ranging from the low 40s to 50 degrees. Here are three top choices for early season smallmouth bass fishing:
- Suspending Jerkbaits: Suspending jerkbaits, like the Rapala X-Rap, are known producers during this time frame, especially if the fish are up on a flat in the 4 to 8-foot range. The key to getting bites is to get the bait moving slowly at their level. In water temperatures in the low 40s, you may have to let the bait sit for 4 to 5 seconds to entice sluggish fish into striking.
- Finesse Swimbaits: Finesse swimbaits, like the Big Bite Baits 3.5 Suicide Shad rigged on a light jig head, can be deadly during the early season. The beauty of this swimbait is that you can fish it up on the flat, on the edge, and slightly off the break. It’s a versatile bait that can imitate a variety of prey and trigger bites from smallmouth bass.
- Hair Jigs: Hair jigs, such as the Northland Tackle Mimic Minnow Hair Jig, are another great option for early season smallmouth bass fishing. These jigs can be casted out and dragged along the bottom or bounced off rocks to imitate a wounded baitfish. The slow and subtle movements of a hair jig can be irresistible to smallmouth bass.
It’s important to note that while these baits are known producers during the early season, it’s unlikely that both anglers will be throwing the exact same bait. It’s common to see different artificial baits producing bites, and it’s important to be open to trying different baits and techniques to find what works best on a given day.
Tips for Success
Here are some additional tips from experienced anglers to help you have a successful ice out smallmouth bass fishing season:
- Use the Right Rod: Having the right rod for the job can make a big difference in your success. For jerkbait fishing, a medium power, extra-fast action rod like the St. Croix Legend Tournament Series is recommended. Pair it with a high-quality reel like the Daiwa Kage MQ LT for optimal performance.
- Pay Attention to Boat Control: Boat control is key when fishing shallow water. Use a trolling motor with spot lock feature to make subtle adjustments and avoid spooking the fish. It’s also important to have a good pair of polarized sunglasses to help you see underwater structures and spot fish.
- Experiment with Different Baits: Don’t be afraid to switch up your bait selection if you’re not getting bites. Smallmouth bass can be finicky, and sometimes a slight change in bait color or presentation can make all the difference.
- Adjust Your Cadence: The cadence of your retrieve can also play a role in triggering bites. Experiment with different pause lengths and retrieve speeds to find what the fish respond to best.
- Consider Water Depth: The depth at which you’re fishing can also impact your bait selection and presentation. If you’re targeting deeper fish, a bait like the Rapala Shadow Rap that can dive down to those depths may be more effective.
- Have Patience: Ice out fishing can be challenging, as the fish are still transitioning and may not be as actively feeding as they will be later in the season. Be patient and persistent, and don’t get discouraged if you’re not getting immediate results.
Conclusion
Ice out is an exciting time for smallmouth bass fishing, as the fish start to migrate towards shallower areas and become more active. By using the right baits and techniques, paying attention to boat control, and being open to experimentation, you can increase your chances of success during this early season. Remember to have patience and enjoy the process of figuring out what works best on a given day. Good luck and tight lines!
