Fall/Winter Creek Smallmouth Behavior

[Ryan S]

Hey everyone,

I have been out fishing the Dupe and some of the Fox River Creeks this fall/winter and have not been catching many fish these last few outings as the weather has gotten colder. Additionally, I have seen a lot less movement of smallmouth and other fish that I typically see when wading. I was wondering if anyone had any insight into the behavior of how the smallmouth that inhabit these small waterways (Dupage and Fox creeks). For example, do these fish migrate to deeper water in the main river if they spend the spring and summer months in the creek?

 

Thanks!

[John Loebach]

Yes shallow small creeks empty out of large fish as it cools. longer smaller rivers like the Dupe or vermillion will have most fish in a few deep slow pools. remember that crap plants release warmer water & that can hold fish in an area.