Fishing enthusiasts in Maine are discovering a wacky and highly effective method for landing smallmouth bass during the late fishing season. As water temperatures rise through August and oxygen levels drop, traditional trout fishing becomes difficult, but smallmouth bass thrive and exhibit aggressive behavior, making fall an excellent time to target these bronze-backed fighters.
For nearly seven decades, avid fisherman and Aroostook County native has explored the region’s streams and lakes chasing brook trout. However, a single trip to Baskahegan Lake radically transformed his perspective on late-season fishing, unveiling smallmouth bass as a compelling quarry that remains active well into autumn.
Late-Season Fishing Challenges and Opportunities
During the dog days of August, decreased water and oxygen levels challenge most game fish, notably trout. However, smallmouth bass respond by increasing activity, often aggressively striking lures that mimic insects, amphibians, or small aquatic creatures. This seasonal shift provides anglers an alternative target when trout fishing becomes less productive.
- Smallmouth bass, nicknamed bronze backs, are prized for their metallic dorsal coloration and acrobatic fight on lightweight rods.
- While southern Maine has abundant bass waters, anglers in central Aroostook must travel over an hour to reach prime bass fishing spots mainly in Washington and Penobscot counties.
- Baskahegan Lake emerged as an early favorite location for novice smallmouth bass fly fishing.
The Rise of the “Wacky Rig” Technique
Initially equipped with basic spinning rods and floating Rapala lures suited for trout fishing, the angler quickly adapted to bass fishing tactics through mentorship and experimentation. Among various approaches, spin-casting Texas or Carolina rigged soft baits provided consistent success. However, what truly revolutionized the late-season bass fishing experience was the introduction of the wacky rig.
This technique uses Senko plastic worms from Yamamoto Bait Company, favored in five-inch lengths and popular colors like watermelon and chartreuse. The worm is rigged using a unique combination of a special five-inch hollow tube wacky tool and rubber O-rings, allowing the worm to hang in an inverted U shape. A wide-gap hook with a wire weed guard completes the setup, enabling smooth casting even in heavy aquatic vegetation.
“The wacky rig’s odd, erratic motion through the water drives smallmouth bass crazy, resulting in more and larger fish being caught,” said the veteran angler, reflecting on his many successful outings.
- Wacky rigging produces an active, unpredictable bait motion distinct from traditional rigging styles.
- Experiments consistently show higher strike rates for wacky rigs compared to other bait types.
- The setup minimizes bait loss, addressing ecological concerns over plastic pollution in waterways.
Environmental Awareness and Sustainable Angling
Concerns have grown regarding plastic baits lost during fishing, which can harm fish, birds, and mammals when ingested. The wacky rig technique, by securing the bait more effectively with O-rings and weedless hooks, reduces bait loss, supporting ecological sustainability.
“Let’s be conscientious for the sake of ecology, the animals, and future fishing generations,” advises the angler, emphasizing responsible fishing practices.
Why Late-Season Bass Fishing Is Worth the Trip
Late summer and autumn in Maine offer more than just comfortable weather and stunning foliage. As many anglers shift focus to hunting seasons, fishing pressure on bass waters notably drops, presenting a quieter and more rewarding experience.
- Consistent bass activity through fall contrasts with declining trout availability.
- Reduced competition on waterways results in increased catch rates.
- The wacky rig technique is accessible and effective, even for anglers new to bass fishing.
