In this episode of 'Take It to the Bank', host Ben Ballou and elite series pro Jonathan Kelley dive deep into the world of smallmouth bass fishing. They discuss the nuances of fishing in northern waters, particularly Lake Oneida, and share insights on tournament preparation, bait selection, and the behavior of smallmouth bass. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating rough waters and the importance of boat maintenance. Listeners are treated to entertaining anecdotes and valuable tips for both novice and experienced anglers.

takeaways

• Smallmouth bass fishing is best during cooler weather.
• Different northern fisheries require different gear and techniques.
• Mapping technology is crucial for locating smallmouth bass.
• Smallmouth spawn around individual rocks and gravel areas.
• Grass mixed with rocks is a prime location for smallmouth.
• Hair jigs are effective in calm conditions and require a slow retrieve.
• Boat maintenance is essential for safe navigation in rough waters.
• Understanding fish behavior is key to successful fishing.
• Tournament fishing requires adaptability and quick decision-making.
• Funny and unexpected moments can happen while fishing.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Smallmouth Bass Fishing

03:03

Preparing for Upcoming Tournaments

06:06

Understanding Smallmouth Behavior

08:49

Spawning Habits and Habitat Preferences

12:03

Fishing Techniques and Strategies

15:11

Current and Its Impact on Fishing

17:57

Breaking Down Lake Oneida

21:03

Fishing Gear and Setup

23:49

Bait Selection for Smallmouth Bass

27:00

Final Thoughts and Tips

36:56

Understanding Fish Behavior and Bait Selection

39:20

The Art of Drop Shot Fishing

40:50

Exploring Hair Jigs and Their Effectiveness

46:02

Identifying Feeding Zones for Smallmouth Bass

50:06

Navigating Rough Waters: Boat Maintenance and Safety

56:03

Experiences in Extreme Water Conditions

01:03:38

Humorous and Embarrassing Fishing Stories