Summer has officially settled in around La Crosse, and fishing on the Upper Mississippi River is heating up right along with the temperatures. Water levels have remained favorable, vegetation is filling in throughout the backwaters, and fish are settling into predictable summer patterns. If you’re planning to hit the river this month, there’s plenty of action to be found.

Bass Fishing

Bass are transitioning out of their late spring patterns and are beginning to establish themselves in their summer homes. Largemouth bass are relating heavily to healthy weed edges, lily pads, duckweed mats, and shaded cover throughout the backwaters. Early mornings and evenings have been producing excellent topwater action, while swim jigs, frogs, Texas-rigged plastics, and senkos continue to put fish in the boat throughout the day.

Smallmouth bass are becoming more consistent on current seams, wing dams, rocky shorelines, and deeper current breaks. As water temperatures continue to climb, expect these fish to group up and feed aggressively during low-light periods.

Flathead Catfish

Flathead catfish are making their move toward the annual spawn. While many fish are staging near spawning areas, they’re still feeding well before locking down completely. The next couple of weeks should offer some exciting opportunities to connect with trophy fish before the spawn peaks.

Our guided flathead trips will resume after July 15th, once the spawn begins winding down. If you’ve been waiting for a chance to chase a true Mississippi River giant, the second half of July is shaping up to be an excellent time to get on the water. These trips are always popular, so booking early is recommended.

Panfish

If you’re looking for steady action or introducing someone new to fishing, the summer panfish bite has been excellent. Bluegills have moved into their classic summer locations around deeper weed edges, docks, timber, and outside vegetation. Crappies are holding around submerged wood and deeper brush, while jumbo perch continue showing up along weed lines and transition areas.

These fish have been providing fast-paced action and make for a great day on the water for anglers of all skill levels.

Looking Ahead

July is a great month on the Mississippi River. The fishing becomes more consistent, fish settle into predictable patterns, and there’s always a chance at a personal-best bass or flathead catfish.

If you’ve been thinking about booking a guided trip, now is the perfect time. Whether you’re looking to chase trophy bass, experience the thrill of battling a giant flathead catfish, or simply enjoy a fun day catching panfish with family and friends, I’d love to help you make the most of your time on the water.

July dates are filling quickly, especially after July 15th when our trophy flathead trips resume. Reserve your trip with River Bent Outfitters today and come experience some of the best summer fishing the Upper Mississippi River has to offer!