topwater for smallies in the Fall

[Hoffer]

Wanted to check in with you canadien fisherman. heading up to a chain of lakes north of rainy in a week. been going there for years. We always end up catching a few nice smallies - but just very inconsistent. This area has been well known now for some excellent smallie fishing - but i havent been able to establish a pattern.

What do you think about topwater in the Fall?

I was thinking of giving it a try and wondered if it was more or less a mid-summer time tactic - or if you guys have any luck later on in the year with the tops?

any advice or feedback is appreciated!

[Muskies]

Hey Hoffer,

I've had more luck on the top of mid-lake reefs on Rainy casting jigs or shad raps and hornets mid to late Sept and into Oct. Top water may work on a calm sunny day but I've had little success.

[Elia]

Hoffer,

As for topwater efforts next week for smallies, I say go for it 'cuz you got nuthin' to lose. On the other hand, you need a backup plan.

I've spent a good amount of time at Rainy and neighboring lakes in September, and as long as water temps hang in the 55 degree-and-better range topwater could be a worthwhile pattern. Topwater is always my favorite way to fish smallies, but as lakes cool it becomes less effective and I lower my expectations accordingly. At this time of year on far north lakes my primary search lures are xraps, husky jerk-baits, grubs, and swim baits. I always try topwater at Rainy this time of year, and I have some success, but I tend to focus on deeper, slower presentations. Live bait approaches are a whole 'nother option.

On a highly specific note: even if you encounter truly cold water, a warm, calm afternoon with intense sunlight can spark a short period of fabulous topwater action in shallow bays. Again, water temperature drives fish location and behavior.

[plogsdon]

I was up 2wks ago. we try fishing points with flats that run up to the point. I look for solitary marks that are spread out here and there. then use a lindy with minnow. i caught a 22,21,19,19 inch smally one afternoon when we swithced from walleye to smallies in seine bay. also caught several nice notherns