Float and Fly

[shooterjr]

Hi,
New member here. I'm curious about those of you that have experience with the float and fly method for smallmouth. Is this generally a cold water tactic?

 

[scn]

Yes, pretty much a cold water tactic.

Slow, but very effective.

 

[TNReb]

I wish I was patient enough to do it. I'm just not. Seen a buddy have luck with it on Dale Hollow in the winter.

 

[rsimms]

Hi,
New member here. I'm curious about those of you that have experience with the float and fly method for smallmouth. Is this generally a cold water tactic?

Usually, yes. The premise (for smallmouth) is that your "fly" is imitating a tiny dying shad. Threadfin shad in particular cannot withstand water temperatures in the mid-to-low 40's. If water temps get way into low 40's for an extended period, it's not unusual to have a die-off of threadfin shad. That's why float & fly (for smallmouth) is generally most effective in cold months, and especially if it gets extremely cold.
Anytime I see/hear that water temps in smallmouth or spotted bass water are approaching, or dipping below, 45 degrees, I get my annual "Float & Fly Itch."