690 | Catching Big Smallmouth Bass with James Hughes - Schultz Outfitters, Fly Design, Fleein' Cray

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/690

Presented By:   Jackson Hole Fly Company, Stonefly Nets, Yellowstone Teton Territory, On DeMark Lodge

Today, we're covering everything about catching big smallmouth bass with James Hughes, head guide at Schultz Outfitters. James breaks down when to use smaller streamers versus the big five to eight-inch ones.

We'll also learn the best times for swim flies, how to strip your fly for more success, and the two common mistakes most anglers make when chasing smallmouth bass.

Plus, stick around until the end for details on getting a spot for our  Smallmouth bass trip with Schultz Outfitters in July.

Show Notes with James Hughes on Catching Big Smallmouth Bass

2:05 - James started fly fishing when he was 11 or 12, watching fishing videos with his dad. Nobody in his family fly fished, so he taught himself to tie flies with a beginner kit. Back then, there was no YouTube, so he had to rely on books. Fast forward to when he was in college, he stumbled upon Mike Schultz’s fly shop.

Check out our episode with Mike Schultz here.

5:05 - We talk about Mike and the success of Schultz Outfitters.

July Smallmouth Bass Trip

08:52 - We chat about what to expect for the smallmouth bass trip in July. James says that by then, the fish will be out of their spawning phase and into their predictable summer habits. This means more consistent feeding throughout the day and easier fishing. You can also throw larger streamers if the water conditions are right.

10:56 - James talks about how they adjust to different water conditions. They cover six rivers for their trips, which are all great for fishing.

16:57 - I asked James how he prepares for the first day on the water with his clients. He usually checks in and sets up meeting details the night before.

When choosing which river to fish, James says he considers client’s expectations more than their skill level. He usually starts with a middle-of-the-road river where they can catch various fish, then adjusts the next days based on how the first day goes.

Finding Big Smallmouth Bass in Early Spring

21:21 -  James talks about the importance of water temperature and timing in catching big smallmouth bass. He checks the water temperature first thing in the morning and looks for warming trends to determine when the fish are most active.

James says big fish like slow-moving water with a dark bottom. He also adds the importance of the sun when picking a spot to fish.

31:00 - James says a good leech or sculpin pattern with some weight is a must in March. These flies are simple, easy to snack on for fish and they work great when fished at the right depth.

34:00 - We talked about the best setups for streamer fishing. Here are some key tips:

Stripping alone will not do the job. James says to strip set and sweep your rod in the opposite direction of the fish.

Big fish often feel like logs at first. Watch for subtle rod pulses to confirm it’s a fish.

Use lead-eyed flies matched to the river’s depth and flow for better control.

Intermediate lines are the go-to for most situations.

James uses the SA Titan Full Intermediate from March to May and October to March. In summer, he switches to clear tip intermediates or floating lines for smaller streamers.

For leaders, he uses a 3-section leader at around 12 lb and 4.5 to 5 feet if the water’s super clear.

The Fleein' Cray

49:52 - We also talk about the process of creating the Fleein' Cray. James says it took 2.5 years to perfect the pattern. The idea is to create a fly that mimics how crayfish naturally dart away in straight lines.

Check out this video of the Fleein' Cray:

https://youtu.be/sjJJ834caRQ?si=fLJy6dm3tSHqNoJ8

Bobbin' The Hood

1:00:06 - James talks about Bobbin' The Hood, a cool event where fly tyers and fishing guides come together for a day of tying, learning, and hanging out. It's a great time to learn new techniques, ask questions, and meet fellow enthusiasts.

1:04:34 - James talks about how people often misunderstand smallmouth bass behavior. One big mistake is thinking bass are always eager to attack anything, but they're actually picky about how fast or slow you fish.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/690