Tech Bass Fishing: A Brave New Bass Fishing World
We live in a fast-paced world that often feels like it jumped from the pages of science fiction—part Dick Tracy, part Jetsons. News arrives instantly on our phones, technology evolves at lightning speed, and even the realm of bass fishing is not immune to this digital revolution. In recent years, a technological space race among fishing manufacturers has propelled the sport into a new era, equipping anglers with tools once unimaginable.
From GPS to high-resolution side imaging, efficient outboards to smart trolling motors, lifelike baits to high-speed reels, today’s angler has an arsenal of innovations at their fingertips. These advancements, including affordable technique-specific rods and high-performance lines, are no longer reserved for the elite. Thanks to the democratization of technology and a vast digital knowledge base, even novice anglers are quickly closing the skill gap—especially the growing number of young competitors entering the bass scene.
The Rise of the Upper Midwest Bass Boom
Much of this angling energy is being funneled into an unlikely hotbed: the upper Midwest. Traditionally overshadowed by the southern bass strongholds, this region is now drawing national attention. Events hosted by Bassmaster and Major League Fishing have put the spotlight on these once “sleeper” lakes, revealing just how productive they can be—even during the traditionally slow “dog days” of summer.
In this episode of The Edge, veteran angler and industry icon Al Lindner is joined by Dan Johnston of St. Croix Rods to explore the state of bass fishing and the untapped potential of Midwestern waters.
Big Bites and Bigger Smiles
The action starts quickly. Armed with advanced sonar, Al and Dan scan a rock-laden structure for marks. “That white heat signal is 100% a fish,” Al confirms as the side-imager lights up. A swing jig thumps, a rod loads, and a hefty bass surges to the boat. “This is the kind we’re looking for,” he exclaims. It’s a classic Midwestern bite: deep rock, clear water, and chunky fish.
Despite decades on the water, Al’s enthusiasm for the jig bite remains undiminished. “All the years I’ve been doing this, I love it. It is my favorite way to catch bass.” That joy is mirrored in the fish they’re catching and the conversation they’re sharing.
A Passion Turned Profession
Al reflects on his life in the fishing industry—a career built not just on catching fish, but on understanding the trends, tools, and techniques shaping the sport. It’s this passion that drives his ongoing work in social media and television, showcasing what’s new and exciting.
Dan Johnston, Al’s guest and a key figure at St. Croix, shares that spirit. With nearly two decades at the rod manufacturer, Johnston wears many hats—product development, promotion, and plenty of hands-on fishing across species and geographies. The duo has been filming for St. Croix’s social channels and took the opportunity to get out and record a television segment together, hoping their insights will help others catch more fish.
The Northern Secret is Out
The upper Midwest is enjoying a renaissance. Anglers from across the country are discovering the explosive bass potential of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and even the Dakotas. Major tournaments in places like Milwaukee and Grand Rapids have revealed just how fertile these waters are. One standout event boasted the best first-day weight in Major League Fishing history—nearly 88 pounds.
This once “secret” bite is now a national story. Northern waters are challenging the status quo, drawing in not just bass anglers but also manufacturers eager to serve the growing interest.
Innovation on the Water: Boats, Rods, and Beyond
With the growth of northern bass fishing has come a wave of tailored products. Lund, a company traditionally associated with walleye and multi-species fishing, entered the bass boat market with remarkable results. Their new models offer features like pedestal or bench seating and integrated Smooth Moves suspension systems—comfort that anglers like Al with a bad back deeply appreciate.
Dan, a lifelong glass-boat guy, admits to being blown away by the performance of Lund’s aluminum bass boats. “It’s the best aluminum bass boat for sitting down in the water I’ve ever been in,” he says. The ride, dryness, layout, and storage impressed him so much he calls himself “dumbfounded.”
Muskie anglers are also taking note, and the boat’s design is attracting attention across species lines.
The Electronics Edge
Humminbird continues to revolutionize fish finding with features like AutoChart Live, which allows anglers to map uncharted lakes with remarkable precision. This capability is a game-changer on lakes where commercially available maps fall short.
Another standout tool is SmartStrike, which analyzes fishing patterns and highlights corresponding spots on a digital map. Want more inside pockets or rock transitions for smallmouths? Plug it in, and the system shows where to look. “It’s smarter than I ever thought it would be,” Al admits.
The Minn Kota Ultrex adds to this toolkit with SpotLock, a form of electronic anchoring that holds the boat in position regardless of wind, current, or depth. This feature is invaluable for maintaining boat control during critical moments—hooksets, fighting fish, and making repeated casts to key areas.
The New Northern Frontier
The bass fishing world is changing—and fast. With high-tech tools and a renewed focus on the Midwest, the region has become a vibrant frontier for anglers. As Al and Dan continue their conversation on the water, they underscore the immense potential for anglers willing to explore this new landscape, especially with the gear now available to support success.
Making High-Quality Gear Accessible
One of the standout discussions in this segment centers around the St. Croix Bass X rod series. Designed with affordability and performance in mind, the Bass X series sits at an attractive ~$100 price point. It was developed specifically to eliminate barriers for high school and college anglers or anyone just getting started. As Dan Johnston explained, “It’s a rod people can afford, but it has amazing workmanship.” It’s all about getting more people—especially young people—into quality gear that performs like top-tier equipment.
The Art of the Crankbait
Crankbait fishing took center stage as the crew demonstrated how effective the method remains—even as bait design and technology evolve. They highlighted a new Rapala crankbait featuring cutting-edge craw color patterns based on molting cycles. The bait is finely tuned and runs “dead true” straight out of the box—no tweaks needed.
Paired with a St. Croix Legend Glass rod, 10-lb Sufix fluorocarbon, and a 5.5:1 Daiwa Tatula reel, the combination is deadly effective. Whether on rocky points or hard-bottom structure, crankbait setups like this continue to deliver results season after season.
Youth Movement in Bass Fishing
Bass fishing is surging in popularity among young anglers, from high schoolers in Brainerd, Minnesota, to college competitors across the country. What’s driving this growth? Abundant bass populations, the thrill of the fight, and the vast variety of tackle and techniques.
Just as importantly, access to information has exploded. Unlike previous generations who had to rely on magazines and word of mouth, today’s youth have YouTube, social media, and countless online resources at their fingertips. The learning curve has shortened dramatically, and new anglers are getting competitive in record time.
A Commitment to Quality and Legacy
When you’re in the business of teaching people how to fish, the obligation goes beyond just selling gear—it’s about sharing knowledge, fostering passion, and upholding a tradition of excellence. As Al and Dan emphasized, “It’s all about blending science and technology with hardcore fishing experience and passion.” Whether designing a swing jig that outperforms traditional heads or refining trolling motor integration with Spot-Lock, innovation remains focused on the angler’s experience.
One Last Cast: A Call to the North
If the Southern summer heat has you beat and you’re itching for a change of scenery, take a cue from the crew: head north. The Upper Midwest and Great Lakes region is bursting with untapped bass fishing opportunities. With cooler temperatures, less pressured waters, and monster fish lurking below the surface, it’s a destination that should be on every serious angler’s radar.
