
Apex Carbon (2 Sizes)
The Apex Rec/Touring Carbon paddle weights just 27 oz and is the lightest option in the Apex series.
Learn MoreThe Apex Rec/Touring Carbon paddle weights just 27 oz and is the lightest option in the Apex series.
Learn MoreJoin the Wilderness Systems Email Community
Be the first to know about new products, team news and events.
On a recent trip, I found myself in what should have been a "smallmouth wintering hole".
Angler: Wes Widrig
Fishery: New River near Bluestone Dam, Hinton, West Virginia
Lure: 1/4 oz Swim Jig
Catch and Pattern Description: Targeting a smallmouth winter pattern sometimes leads to a more interesting encounter with one of the New River's less understood and sought out species, the musky. On a recent trip, January 18th, I found myself in what should have been a "smallmouth wintering hole". With cold northwestern winds and frigid 35 degree water temps, I sat on the sunny side of the river prospecting the ledge that await my offering of a Blue Chrome Rapala Shad Rap.
I made several casts to the current seam in 8 feet of water and slowly drifted towards the tail out about 30 yards downstream. After 5 drifts, 45 minutes later and no bites I decided to tie on a 1/4 oz Bluegill Swim Jig with a beaver style trailer. On the very next drift I was surprised at what picked up the jig being hopped about 2 feet off the bottom. With a 6'8" spinning rod and 7lb fluorocarbon leader I immediately felt the thump of a big fish. Little did I know but the fish that just picked up my jig would wind up weighing nearly 15 lbs.