This great Smallmouth Hotspot is on Nackawick Stream which is a branch of the St. John River in New Brunswick. Early season smallie angling can have the fish in a variety of moods, so a variety of baits and presentations are a must.

On our Fish’n Canada trip here, we did well with unweighted 4″ Yamamoto Senkos with brighter colours being the best—for that day, anyway. Oddly enough, black might be the colour of choice on the following day. Be versatile!

Use either light fluorocarbon or braided line tied directly to the reel, or tie a fluorocarbon leader onto light braid. Either one will work.

If you’re using unweighted plastic in strong winds add just a touch of weight, as the bait is on or near the bottom is the key.

Baits: Soft Stick Baits
Presentation: Cast to rocks and wood
Water depth: 2-4 feet