Nephew Hammers the Smallmouth on the Mississippi

The Mississippi continues to put out some amazing fish. The Smallmouth are well rounded now and are having no problem with the very large baits we’ve been throwing at em. I’m using baits that are anywhere from 4”-10” long, depending on the mood and size of the fish we’re on at the time. The rocky areas with a good current seam and deep water nearby have still been the most productive.

I had the pleasure of taking out my brother Jeremy and his 4yr old son Blake. The three of us only had a couple hours to fish but we were going try and make the best of it. My Nephew is no stranger to fishing but this would be his first ever Smallmouth trip. We had tried to prepare him for the fight these fish were going to give him, but being the “Tough” kid he is, he wasn’t too worried.

Shortly after we arrived at the first spot Blake had his first ever smallmouth on and after a good little battle we landed it. He seemed impressed at how hard it pulled but it was nothing he couldn’t handle. My Brother and I boated a few more nice fish which Blake was more than excited to net for us. For a while there I thought he’d rather net fish than catch em. Finally the time came, Blake tied into a true beast. He started reeling and the fish started going. I held onto the little guys lifejacket and the fight was on. As the fish jumped and jumped all I could hear over the reel screaming was him giggling. It was pretty obvious he was having the time of his life. I could only imagine how his little arms felt as he reeled and reeled. After a little coaching from Dad, he was perfecting the rod lift and reel. This was one of the best one on one battles I’ve witnessed, but finally the huge smallie hit the bottom of the Beckman! Blake was breathing heavy and was very excited. I asked him, “is your heart pounding hard?” He paused for a second and with a big breath said… “No”. Puzzled, I asked, “you’re not excited?”… still breathing hard he said, “no…I feel like I’m going to explode!” As my brother and I laughed I explained to him that was his heart beating fast. I couldn’t help but think, he’s got it, he’s got the fishing bug bad! Blake ended up landing a number of big fish that short afternoon and it’ll be a day none of us will soon forget.

The smallmouth are showing no signs of letting up and as soon as they do the walleye will be in full swing to take their place. As most of you know, the Fall offers no rest for the weary! These cool temps have my blood pumping, as this is my favorite time of year. There are so many things to do and only a month or so to do it in. I know many people are getting busy with kids in school and sports, but Fall is the best time to catch fish. Almost every species is eating more now than any other time of year. If you’re looking to get your little one hooked on the outdoors, get him/her out on the water so they can enjoy their own little adventure!