Half Day Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Michigan
Private Trip
River Fishing
Fourhour guided smallmouth bass fishing on scenic Michigan riversAll equipment, bait, and expert instruction included for beginnersAccommodates up to 3 guests with fully insured professional guide
If you're looking for some serious smallmouth action without burning a whole day, Don Lockhart's got you covered on three of Michigan's best river systems. This 4-hour guided trip puts you right in the heart of smallmouth country on the Big Manistee, Muskegon, or Pierre Marquette Rivers. Whether you're a weekend warrior or just getting your kids hooked on fishing, Don brings the gear, the know-how, and the local intel to make sure you're connecting with fish. With space for up to 3 anglers, it's perfect for a small crew ready to work some prime smallmouth water.
Don's been working these rivers long enough to know where the bronze-backs hang out, and he's not shy about sharing his secrets. You'll launch into some of the prettiest smallmouth habitat in the Great Lakes region, where clear water meets rocky structure and smallies patrol like they own the place. The trip covers everything you need - rods, reels, tackle, and bait - so you can focus on reading the water and setting hooks. Don switches up techniques based on conditions, running everything from live bait presentations to cranking shallow flats to floating jigs under bobbers. The beauty of these river systems is they fish well all season, but each stretch has its own personality and Don knows them all.
This isn't a one-trick operation. Don comes loaded with options depending on what the fish are telling him. Live bait gets the nod when smallies are finicky - nothing beats a lively crawler or leech bounced along bottom structure. When they're aggressive, he'll tie on plugs and crankbaits that trigger reaction strikes as they deflect off rocks and logs. The float fishing setup is money for working deeper pools and slack water where smallies suspend and feed. You'll learn how to read current seams, identify holding water, and present baits naturally in moving water. Don's got medium-action spinning gear that's perfect for feeling subtle bites and playing fish without pulling hooks. The beauty of river fishing is you're always moving, always adjusting, always learning something new about how these fish behave in different water.
Smallmouth bass are the undisputed kings of Michigan's river systems, and for good reason. These bronze-backed fighters average 12-16 inches in these waters, with plenty of chunky 3-4 pound fish mixed in to keep things interesting. Peak action runs from late spring through early fall, but these rivers produce year-round for anglers who know the spots. What makes smallmouth special is their attitude - they hit hard, jump high, and fight dirty. Unlike their largemouth cousins who might slug it out in cover, smallies use current and open water to make long runs and aerial displays that'll test your drag and your reflexes. The rocky structure and clean water of the Big Manistee, Muskegon, and Pierre Marquette create perfect smallmouth habitat, with plenty of crayfish, minnows, and insects to keep them fat and aggressive. They're also excellent table fare if you decide to keep a few for dinner, with firm white meat that's hard to beat.
Don's half-day trips are a customer favorite for good reason - you get quality time on world-class smallmouth water without the full-day commitment. The 4-hour window gives you enough time to work different spots, adjust to conditions, and put together a solid day of fishing. These Michigan rivers don't give up their secrets easily, but with Don's guidance, you'll leave understanding why smallmouth fishing has such a devoted following. Just bring your Michigan fishing license, dress for the weather, and pack some snacks and sunscreen. Don handles the rest, including full insurance coverage for peace of mind. Whether you're looking to introduce someone to river fishing or just want to add some new techniques to your arsenal, this trip delivers the goods on some of the best smallmouth water in the Midwest.
This 20-foot Riverman jet sled is purpose-built for Michigan's river systems, cutting through shallow runs and rocky stretches where smallmouth bass love to hang out. The 115 HP jet motor gives you clean access to those hard-to-reach spots along the Big Manistee, Muskegon, and Pierre Marquette without worrying about prop damage on logs or rocks. Built tough for river conditions, this boat handles everything from gentle pools to faster current breaks where the fish stack up. The shallow draft design lets you slide right into prime smallmouth water that bigger boats can't touch. Comfortable seating for your group means you can focus on working crankbaits along structure or drifting live bait through deep holes. Perfect setup for targeting those bronze fighters in their home water.
Michigan