As the ice melts and Ontario’s rivers awaken, spring ushers in one of the most exciting seasons for anglers: smallmouth bass fishing! The French River transforms into a fishing paradise during this time, offering unparalleled opportunities to connect with nature and reel in impressive catches. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, Bear’s Den Lodge provides the perfect backdrop for your spring bass fishing adventure.
Why Spring is Perfect for Smallmouth Bass Fishing?
Spring marks a renewal for Ontario’s river systems. On the French River, bass season kicks off on the third Saturday of May, when smallmouth bass become notably more active. Having moved from deeper waters to shallow areas to prepare their nests, these fish are energetic and ready to strike.
The French River’s unique ecosystem—with its rocky shorelines, underwater structures, and pristine waters—creates the ideal environment for smallmouth bass to thrive alongside many other fish species.
Understanding bass behavior is key to success. Smallmouth bass are significantly more aggressive than their largemouth cousins and famous for their spectacular topwater performances with frenzied splashes that excite any angler. They tend to congregate around submerged rocks, logs, and edges of weed beds during early spring. Targeting these habitats dramatically increases your chances of success.
For more insights into how smallmouth and largemouth bass differ, check out our comprehensive guide: Largemouth vs. Smallmouth Bass: A River Between Two Fishes.
Expert Tips for Catching Spring Smallmouth Bass on the French River
Here’s what our guides at Bear’s Den Lodge recommend to help you make the most of your spring fishing trip:
- Gear Selection: Use medium-action spinning rods paired with fluorocarbon line for optimal sensitivity and control. Our guide on How to Select a Good Bass Fishing Rod provides in-depth information to help you choose the perfect equipment. Lightweight jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics that mimic the prey smallmouth bass feed on during spring will increase your chances of success.
- Best Fishing Spots: Focus on shallow bays, rocky outcroppings, areas with mild currents, and creek mouths. The French River’s diverse underwater landscape offers countless hotspots waiting to be discovered. Our experienced guides can direct you to the day’s most productive locations based on current conditions.
- Timing Your Trip: Early morning and late afternoon typically see peak smallmouth bass activity. These cooler periods align perfectly with the fish’s natural feeding patterns, giving you the best opportunity for multiple catches.
- Adaptive Techniques: Water temperature and weather conditions change rapidly in spring, requiring anglers to adjust their approach accordingly. Dive deeper into effective strategies by reading Hooked on the River: Smallmouth Bass Fishing Secrets to refine your technique.
Why Choose Bear’s Den Lodge for Your Spring Bass Fishing Adventure?
Bear’s Den Lodge isn’t just accommodations—it’s your gateway to experiencing the French River’s natural splendor. With our expert guides, comfortable lodging, and intimate knowledge of the river’s seasonal patterns, we provide everything needed for a truly memorable fishing trip in Northeastern Ontario, Canada.
New to bass fishing altogether? Our Largemouth Bass Fishing Ontario Beginners’ Guide offers valuable information that applies to both bass species.
Planning to target largemouth bass during your stay as well? Don’t miss our Five Simple Tips for Spring Largemouth Bass Fishing to expand your angling expertise and maximize your catch potential.
Book your spring smallmouth bass fishing adventure at Bear’s Den Lodge today, and discover why our returning guests consider the French River their seasonal fishing home.
Article by Joe Barefoot, M.B., Outdoor Writer and Nationally Published Author & Photographer. A member of the Professional Outdoor Media Association of Canada