S7, Ep 67: Chasing Smallmouth: High Water Strategies with Brendan Ruch

Join Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly fishing podcast for another essential Ruch Report with smallmouth bass guide Brendan Ruch, fresh from successful trips to Michigan waters with Schultz Outfitters and western Pennsylvania streams.

Despite challenging mid-Atlantic conditions with high, dirty water disrupting traditional topwater fishing, Brendan shares proven strategies for adapting to stained water conditions using copper flash patterns, tan and olive brown crayfish imitations and downsized presentations on slower flats.

Learn critical hook removal techniques for tongue-hooked smallmouth bass, including the proper hemostat method that significantly reduces bleeding and improves fish survival compared to hand removal.

Brendan reveals why copper flash outperforms pearl in stained water, how to adjust your pre-spawn Nut Job patterns for varying flow conditions and tactical approaches for fishing both flats and faster water when visibility is compromised.

This timely summer fishing report provides actionable insights for smallmouth anglers dealing with fluctuating water levels and challenging conditions, plus essential fish care techniques that every responsible angler should master for successful catch and release.

To learn more about Brendan, check out our interview.

Related Content

S6, Ep 41 - Smallmouth Secrets and Streamer Savvy with Brendan Ruch

S1, Ep 97 - All Things Smallmouth with Mike Schultz

S7, Ep 40 - Exploring the Carp Game: Techniques and Tales with Corey Haselhuhn of Schultz Outfitters

S6, Ep 112 - Smallmouth Transitions and Musky Prep: Matt Reilly's Southwest VA Update

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