Bass Fishing in the Mississippi River

Fly Fishing Insider Podcast

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In this episode of the Fly Fishing Insider podcast, host Christian Bacasa interviews Kip Vieth from Wildwood Float Trips. They discuss bass fishing in the Mississippi River and the unique characteristics of the fishery. The conversation covers topics such as water temperatures, fish behavior, fly patterns, and fishing techniques. Kip shares his insights and experiences as a guide in the area, providing valuable information for anglers interested in smallmouth bass fishing. In this conversation, Kip Vieth discusses his approach to fishing for smallmouth bass. He explains that he primarily fishes topwater near the bank or rocks, but in the summer, he switches to mid-river patterns. Vieth emphasizes the importance of manipulating the fly after the strip, creating a motion after the motion to entice strikes. He also discusses the significance of fishing the drop-offs and edges, as well as the visual aspect of smallmouth fishing. Vieth recommends using larger rods and flies to trigger aggressive strikes from smallmouth bass. Takeaways

• The Mississippi River offers excellent smallmouth bass fishing opportunities, with clear water, diverse habitats, and a variety of fly fishing techniques.
• Water temperatures in the river range from 55°F in May to the mid-80s°F in August, with the best fishing usually occurring in the spring and early fall.
• Topwater flies like poppers and divers are effective for smallmouth bass, especially in the summer. Other successful fly patterns include crayfish imitations, minnow patterns, and sculpin patterns.
• Fishing techniques vary depending on the season and conditions, but dead drifting flies, stripping streamers, and using a sink tip line are common approaches.
• Catch and release is the norm for smallmouth bass in the Mississippi River, with regulations allowing for the keeping of one fish over 20 inches.
• The river is also home to other species like muskie, pike, and walleye, providing additional fishing opportunities. Fishing topwater near the bank or rocks is effective for smallmouth bass.
• In the summer, switch to mid-river patterns and focus on drop-offs and edges.
• Manipulate the fly after the strip to create a motion after the motion.
• Using larger rods and flies can trigger aggressive strikes from smallmouth bass.

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