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Tonight was my night. I only caught one fish, but it measured at 17 and 1/2 inches and weighed 3 lbs. from a branch of the Zumbro where the biggest fish I had previously seen was only about 12 inches. The water was surprizingly warm for wading and the bugs were not biting. It was a great night out.

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Fish On!
Big Lew

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Way to go Big Lew, It's always nice to hear about nice fish close to home. And it is great motivation for me to get out and enjoy this great time of year.

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Big Lew,

Nice job! Your persistence paid off! As the old saying goes, where there are small ones there(should be) are big ones!
What were you using so others might have a chance next time they are wading for smallies!
Sarge is right on! We are fast approaching trophy smallmouth time!
I caught one of my largest from the North Branch of the Root in October.
Those piggy bronzebacks( actually green backs on the root) start to hop on the feed bag come fall.
Keep the rods bendin'!!
Jim W

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Jim W. I was using a Kalin Reaper. Gander Mountain only has one color of these, but I had decided to give them a try after watching a Joe Bucher smallie video.

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Fish On!
Big Lew

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Went out again this evening. Didn't find the big fish, but managed to hook up with a hefty 12 and 1/2 inch smallie. Tonight a chartruese twister tail did the trick. It's also very interesting to see the sucker fish (I believe they are red horse) schooling together and feeding below any type of current break. They had no interest in any of the lures I presented and made a point to swim around or away from some of the bigger, noisier lures. Have a great week-end everyone.

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Fish On!
Big Lew

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Made it out by Oxbow again this evening and hooked up with another 15 plus inch smallie. Was about to lean over and lip him when he gave one last shake and he was off my #3 Mepps Aglea. I think he was as surprised to be free as I was that he shook off. For just a second or two he laid still and then took off again for deeper water. Two beautiful fish plus that 12 and 1/2 incher in between within four short days. This has definately been my best run with the smallies since I've begun to hunt them. I must admit, having caught both a 17 1/2 inch smallie and a 17 inch walleye, I just can't imagine chasing the walleyes with the same enthusiasm level. I sure am glad I'm one of the few in this state that feels this way.

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Fish On!
Big Lew

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