Summtertime smallies

Catch a bronzeback in western NC

Matt Evans of the Catawba Angler (828-460-2390) spends most of the year chasing trout in the mountains of North Carolina. But in June, he often switches gears to targeting smallmouth bass.

“June provides excellent smallmouth fishing, with opportunities to catch a lot of fish, and big fish present themselves on every float,” said Evans.

He said most of his clients use spinning gear when fishing for bronzebacks.

“The majority of our customers prefer to use light spinning tackle. But we love chasing smallmouth using the long rod,” he said. 

No matter what type of gear you use, Evans said catching a big smallmouth is always a thrill.

“There isn’t a better feeling than having a 3-pound smallmouth on the end of the line,” he said.

Evans said the smallmouth bite begins to heat up in May, but in June, it’s even better.

“Beginning in June and throughout the summer, there truly isn’t a better time to be on the river fishing for smallmouth in western NC,” he said.

Looking up

Anglers should focus on lures that smallmouth can see while looking up, because the abundance of bugs and flies has them looking toward the surface anyway.

For that reason, poppers are very good choices.

“Fly fishing with poppers is by far one of the most effective ways to catch a trophy smallmouth hanging out on a shady bank in the heat of summer looking for an easy meal. Plenty of cicadas and terrestrials are around to keep the smallmouth looking up,” he said.

Some decent trout fishing is still available this month, but it tapers off as the temperature continues to rise and the days get longer.

“Summertime is the time to try something new and chase these bronzebacks in the river. Trust me, you won’t regret it,” he said. “We’ve had plenty of trout bums give up summer trout fishing and solely focus on catching smallmouth after booking a guided trip with us. Catching a big smallmouth is challenging, but it’s one of the most prized gamefish we have here in western North Carolina. It requires patience, dedication and a good attitude. And when you feel one of these fish on the end of your line, you’ll understand why it’s all worth it.”

The Nolichucky and French Broad rivers are among the best for smallmouth fishing this time of year, but they aren’t the only ones.

Evans said if anglers insist on fishing for trout this month, they can have success, even with some wild fish. But they need to focus on the earliest part of the day.

“If you book a fly fishing trip for wild  trout, then expect to start around 6:30 or 7 a.m. This allows us to safely catch and release these fish while water temperatures are still in the safe range,” he said. “Terrestrial fishing is good on the wild trout streams, so if you’re interested in throwing dries to rising trout, give us a call.”