Andrew Ragas splits time between the Chicago area and Wisconsin's Northwoods. Based in Minocqua, WI, he specializes in trophy bass fishing and offers guided trips from May thru October. While big bass is the passion, he dabbles in multi-species as well. He may be visited online at www.northwoodsbass.com
Sunday, 01 October 2023 / Published in Bass Fishing Articles, Smallmouth Bass

Multi-Tasking Fall Smallmouths

  Winter is looming. Smallmouth bass know it and also prepare for it. By early October, water temperatures have fallen below 60 throughout much of their northern range, and fall
Sunday, 01 October 2023 / Published in Bass Fishing Articles, Smallmouth Bass

LIVE! Nude Minnows

  “It’s cheating!” most proclaim. “They’re too expensive!” some even complain. “Whatever puts them in the boat!” I exclaim. Disallowed in tournaments. Too expensive for a dozen to purchase from
Wednesday, 27 September 2023 / Published in Fishing Reports

Northwoods Bass Fishing Report – End of September, 2023

  These last few weeks have been tough and challenging. We’re not getting the cooldowns we need, and this is NOT what we had expected. This month has been the
Monday, 18 September 2023 / Published in Short Stories and Timely Tips, Smallmouth Bass

Why You Need to Fish Flats in Early Fall

  Beginning in early September, we drift shallow flats and beach shorelines. While most boats are still positioned around deep weedlines and offshore structure, we concentrate on the sand flats
Monday, 11 September 2023 / Published in Short Stories and Timely Tips, Smallmouth Bass

September is My Favorite Smallmouth Month

  September is a month of transition and changing of seasons. With shortening daylight and colder nights, the entire food chain reacts and acclimates to these changes. On many clear
Tuesday, 05 September 2023 / Published in Fishing Reports

Northwoods Bass Fishing Report – Early September 2023

  By the time this gets published and gets read by you, the first official cool-down of fall 2023 will be happening. The forecast for September smallmouth into next week
Friday, 01 September 2023 / Published in Bass Fishing Articles, Smallmouth Bass

Tips for More Fall Smallmouth

  Most smallmouth die-hards have September and October blocked off on their calendars as the best time to catch giants. Meanwhile, a select few do the same for November until
Friday, 01 September 2023 / Published in Bass Fishing Articles, Smallmouth Bass

Starting Lineup for Fall Smallmouths

  As water temperatures gradually cool, the lakes eventually turn over. Smallmouths slide deeper to the point of wintering, and the tackle box closes. As these events simultaneously occur, my