bronzeback88

MSRIVER DOG That is some stout terminal hardware...I use 8# super braid/Power pro and a 12# leader. I've seen limited success with the albright knot. Problem is, it requires a bit aof a hassle getting it tied. I'll try the barrel/blood knot. It does seem a bit bulky??? PS Don't come to Mille Lacs..there aren't any fish there...I was just kidding about large smallies seeing my braided line .

In the low light in the AM I like top waters that make a little commotion--prop baits like the torpedo and poppers like the skitter pop. Don't go to the river without some in line spinners (#2, #3 mepps) especially when the water is moving and skinny. They work regardless on the time of day. Having a good idea of the primary forage in the river helps...crawfish--tubes and crawfish imitators; minnows--twisters, slugos, senkos. I don't know how fast the river is but in faster the water a fishes window can be small so a bait that lets them know its coming (sound, flash) can improve your hookups.

I am new to the web site and I am so far impressed with the topics in these threads. I have a quaestion I was hoping to get some input on. I fish Smallies in clear water (Mille Lacs lake, MN) and I fish braided line with jigs and suspending crankbaits. I think the bigger (ie smarter) fish see the braided line and I've been experimenting with fluorocarbon leaders but the knots I've been using are cumbersome and "catch"in my eyelets as I cast. Any suggestions? I have found that you need to up size your fluorocarbon when tying these knots. Braids and knots of similar lb test seem to not work...I think the braid cuts the mono. Thanks

New member here...One lure I didn't see anyone suggest in the other threads is an in-line spinner. A 2,3 or even a 4 mepps with a hair tail is deadly. Especially later in the summer when the water gets skinny. They have the necessary triggers (flash, thump) You can cover a ton of water and it is hard for a river bass not to hit them when they burn by. I think the hook rate is a bit higher than spinnerbaits. Just my two cents. I came upon this sight recently and it is very nice!!. You guys seem to really want to discuss fishing and truly help each other catch more fish...