I hit the upper stretch of river mid morning and walked in 3/4 mile, then brush busted my way to the water.
I waded out through the shallow grass until I was along the main channel seam and the grass edge.
I started with the topwater but didn’t see any interest.

Made a change to a soft jerkbait and that was the deal.

I landed 9 smallies of all different sizes, no giants, but had some very solid ones in the mix.
No matter their size, these fish live life on a treadmill so they’re super strong and really battle you on light gear.
After covering 1/2 mile of water or so it was time to head back. My legs hate me, but it was so worth the effort!