By Ronnie Parris
Hey folks, we’ve finally made it to the time of year that gets the family fired up for some fun outdoors. June’s a great time to be on the water whether you’re on the lake or a cold trout stream. The fishing’s going to be great with the temps just about perfect. On Fontana you can expect to have a real good topwater bite early and late, with a mix of smallmouth spotted bass and whites. I like trolling, so drop a few lines deep and walleye and steelhead are sure to jump on it. I like casting artificial to the breakers, usually a kietech or a fluke. Sometimes an xrap jerkbait will get them fired up. Remember to stay small with your presentation and you will be rewarded, as the minnows tend to run small this time of year.
The picture with this article is one I cherish: My daughter and 2 grandkids, this was Coy’s first time on the water and we all had a blast. Kyleigh caught several nice spotted bass and we picked up a few whites on the downriggers. Remember to take lots of snacks and cold drinks for the kids because it’s more about making them have fun on the trip than loading the boat with fish. Also, it’s a good time to teach them about safety on the water. Make sure to pack some good sunblock, it’s no fun going home looking like a lobster and feeling the burn for days. I like getting started early and getting off the water as the midday skiers enjoy the warm water and the sun. There’s just something about being on the lake at first light with the fog coming off the water and the fish breaking everywhere that gets my heart pumping. So get the family out there and make some memories. Leave that grass to cut another day. God bless and cherish family.
Ronnie Parris is the Owner and Head Guide of Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited-Fontana Lake Fishing Guides, headquartered in Bryson City, North Carolina, heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. (www.smokymountainoutdoorsunlimited.com)