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 All Things Social Media Follow Brendan on Facebook and Instagram. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. Support the Show Shop on Amazon Become a Patreon Patron Subscribe to the Podcast Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice. Advertise on the Podcast Is our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us. In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck? Check out our consulting options!