Fall is a time similar to that of the Spring seasons except that the action can be more furious and exciting! During this time the bass are gorging themselves on just about whatever they can find in preparation for the long winter ahead. The water temperature will be in the mid 60's or lower and falling. They are more likely to be in large schools at this time more than any other time of the year.
Like in the Spring look in or near shallow water. On larger reservoirs look for seagulls circling overhead, shad or baitfish jumping or skittering across the surface and for large number of swirls or splashes. These would indicate that bass of some type are schooling. Even if these were to turn out to be Stripers or Largemouth bass, Smallmouth will travel with them or hang out below them, feeding on the crippled or dying baitfish that are trying to get away.
Of course you won't always be able to find schooling smallmouth's in a feeding frenzy on every lake that you fish. Some of the best tactics are to fish the same areas that you fished in the Spring with topwater, hard and soft jerkbaits, shallow running crankbaits, worms and jigs. One of the best retrieves during this time would be a fast erratic stop and go retrieve with a crankbait or a good jerky stop and go with a hard jerkbait. Spinnerbaits are an excellent choice this time of year. Using a fast retrieve burn it along just under the surface and suddenly stop reeling while keeping a tight line. The blade will keep spinning while the bait is falling. This gives the impression of a dying shad or minnow.
Fall is now upon us in most of the country and tactics have to change. Start looking shallower and look for schooling Smallies. Although you won't generally find Smallies busting the surface like you would find Largemouths, if you find a good area and catch one or two good size Smallmouth work the area thoroughly . There is probably a good size school there.
Remember to keep an eye on the water temperature and adjust your tactics accordingly. If the temperature drops overnight the fish may be a little sluggush until it up warms up a little later in the day.
On larger reservoirs and lakes look for submerged humps and grass beds. As the water temperature falls baitfish will also start to move around more and will be attracted to these humps and grass beds.
While wading and fishing streams and rivers bring along something warm to drink and wear warmer clothes. Even though you are wearing waders the cold will eventually work its way through and have you heading for the car or truck to warm up sooner than you anticipated.
Also while fishing this time of year watch out for hunters and especially duck hunters. Stay clear of decoys and occupied duck blinds. And if you are walking through the woods to get to your spot wear bright colors so over eager hunters don't mistake you for some type of wildlife.
