Each year I’m amazed at just how fast summer goes!  It seems like just yesterday I was hitting the water for some kayak fishing in May and now it’s already Labor Day Weekend!  The good news is, don’t put those kayaks and fishing gear away yet.   September and October, and even into November can be outstanding months to get out and view our spectacular Door County fall colors from your kayak, and it’s a great time for fishing.  Pick a day with light winds and you have dozens of great locations to paddle, enjoy the beauty and fish, if you want.

Sometimes I’m kayak fishing for smallmouth bass into November.  After that last cast of the season I’m usually OK for about a month, but then I’m already looking forward to opening day next season.  Fortunately, I have fishing articles to write and Power Point presentations to update for the various sports shows I speak at, including Canoecopia in Madison.

I’ve talked about this in the past, but as we got into summer many of the bigger smallies go deeper, which is a challenge for anglers in boats or kayaks.  However, as the water cools those smallies begin to come back in shallow. Probably not as shallow as in the spring, but in a normal fall you’ll find them shallow to 15’-20’. For my fall fishing I’m still using the Ned Rig and tube jigs on the bottom, along with swimming a smaller swimbaits.  The local tackle shop carries all the lures I use and is a good resource for information on some of the better spots for those fall smallies.

Two points of caution with fall kayaking and fishing from a kayak. Be sure to wear proper cold water gear and be sure to check the forecast related to the wind.  I am only kayaking and fishing close to shore just in case of an emergency. It’s been great sharing my thoughts about kayaking and kayak fishing with you again this year, and, as always, if you have any questions email me at kayakfishingwisconsin@gmail.com.