656 | Smallmouth Bass Fishing with Mike Schultz - Schultz Outfitters, Michigan Rivers, Softshell Turtles

Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/656

Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory, TroutRoutes, Visit Helena, MT, Skwala

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

In today's episode, Mike Schultz from Schultz Outfitters shares his invaluable insights to help make your next smallmouth bass fishing trip a roaring success. From headhunting strategies and the importance of the right angle, to understanding how temperature influences your fishing methods throughout the year, this episode covers it all.

Plus, we delve into some unique tips, like how chasing softshell turtles can improve your bass fishing game. So, let's get into it and uncover why smallmouth bass fishing is a favorite among some of the best anglers in the country.

Episode Chapters with Mike Schultz on Smallmouth Bass Fishing

3:14 - We discuss the unique aspects of smallmouth bass fishing in Michigan. Mike highlights that the local rivers, being smaller and more intimate, offer a special experience compared to larger watersheds.

Mike mentions that their standard fishing trips involve using Clackacraft skiffs, which are perfectly suited for their rivers. The guides have flexibility in scheduling trips, adjusting based on the time of year and water conditions.

6:29 - We get into the fishing conditions and expectations for our upcoming trip in July 2025. Mike mentions that July is typically great for topwater fishing, using poppers and terrestrial baits similar to trout fishing gear. There are also insect hatches, such as mayflies, that can start in early June and last into September, providing various fishing opportunities.

10:14 - We discuss plans for a fishing trip in Michigan, focusing on the unique aspects of fishing in the Great Lakes region. Mike describes their different fishing programs available in mid-July, including opportunities to catch numerous smallmouth bass or targeting larger fish in smaller rivers. He emphasizes that by mid-summer, large fish often remain in fixed areas, allowing for more strategic fishing.

14:08 - According to Mike, the state record in Michigan for smallmouth bass is over nine pounds, but such large fish are typically found in lakes and not in the rivers where they fish. Their focus is more on the length of the fish, with a 20-inch smallmouth being considered mature and noteworthy. He mentions that their crew catches around 25 to 30 smallmouth bass each year that are 20 inches or larger.

16:06 - For a successful smallmouth bass fishing from a drift boat, Mike emphasizes the importance of keeping the fly out front of the boat rather than off to the side. This approach helps keep the angler undetected and ensures a more effective hook set when the fish inhales the fly. He further explains that this method not only improves your chances but also provides a better experience for all on the boat.

21:13 - We talk about the evolution of drift boats in their region. Mike reminisces about the old aluminum drift boats, especially the big 16-foot models. He explains that initially, large aluminum boats were common, but over time, companies like Hyde and Stealth Craft began producing lighter, narrower boats that are more suitable for the local rivers. These boats are easier to maneuver and can be equipped with small motors, which helps them cover long stretches of river without exhausting themselves.

24:45 - Mike attributes the Schultz Outfitters' success to longevity in the field, treating people well, fulfilling promises, and compensating team members fairly. He mentions key figures like Jeff Liskay and Greg Senyo, highlighting their expertise and humility despite not being very active on social media. He also notes the special environment they've created at Schultz Outfitters, which some customers deeply appreciate.

28:25 - Mike runs through the normal year at their shop. They do a lot of fly tying focused events from January to February. He also mentions one of their big annual events which is called Bobbin the Hood.

34:55 - We ask Mike about his preferred water conditions, to which he responds that he enjoys a sudden increase in water flow. Mike shares a recent vacation experience where the river's flow increased from 1000 to 1600 cubic feet per second (CFS), resulting in excellent fishing conditions. He notes that earlier in the week, finesse techniques worked best, but the increase in flow changed the fishing dynamics.

35:54 - Mike elaborates on the concept of finesse fishing, which can range from using small foam flies like damsels and dragonflies to larger poppers, emphasizing patience and precision.

38:42 - He also describes a unique technique that involves sight fishing around softshell turtles, similar to saltwater fishing. These turtles dislodge food while feeding, attracting fish, and the key is not to spook the turtle to capitalize on the opportunity.

47:12 - Mike tells us that bass are always predators and that their diet is influenced by their surroundings. For example, in one area with abundant caddis, even smaller fish like 12-14 inch bass consume caddis larva. Bass also eat crayfish, hexes, frogs, and various bait fish that migrate from the Great Lakes at different times of the year. Mike emphasizes the importance of understanding the seasonal and environmental factors, such as water levels and temperatures, to predict feeding patterns.

49:28 - We dig into casting. Mike stresses the necessity of being proficient in backhand casting, especially when fishing from a boat or in specific scenarios. He advises against hard stops in casting when using bigger flies, recommending instead a continuous motion style, such as the Belgian or elliptical cast.

56:26 - Mike provides advice for beginners, emphasizing the importance of listening to guides, being patient, and practicing casting. He stresses the quality of equipment provided and recommends following gear guidelines to ensure a smooth experience. He mentions that while summer is the peak season, the chances of encountering other anglers are low, providing a serene and almost exclusive fishing experience.

For those who are interested in smallmouth fishing with Mike's crew, enter our trip and gear giveaway through this link or learn more about it here.

1:04:00 - We get into sports. Mike's children participate in travel baseball and recently played in an amateur tournament in Omaha He mentions that baseball consumes most of their weekends in spring but is enjoyable and educational for the kids.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/656