BLOOMSBURG — Even anglers of modest ability are able to locate hiding spots of the world-record smallmouth bass along the river banks and drop offs that serve as their prime habitat in the West Branch of the Susquehanna River.
Knowing where the bass are and hooking into one which is more than willing to challenge medium-action tackle no matter their size – or lack of – can be, however, another matter. All of which is why licensed Pennsylvania fishing guide Sean Thomas of the Bloomsburg-based Susky Charters is quickly building a solid clientele base since turning professional in April.
Many of the prime fish-holding areas are in deep channels protected by shallow rock ledges. Unless wading or kayaking, anglers using traditional outboards risk tearing up their lower units no matter how much caution is used maneuvering their motors.
For that reason, Thomas runs a G3 Gator Jet boat that can reach shallow bass locations. In fact, his boat can operate in water as shallow as three inches.
“I like to call smallmouth bass the “3-A Fish” because they are aggressive, acrobatic and abundant,” Thomas said. “No matter their size they will give you the fight of a lifetime when it comes to species on the North Branch of the Susquehanna from Wilkes-Barre to Sunbury and several adjoining tributaries.
“Our goal is to provide a comfortable, fully-equipped fishing experience on the beautiful North Branch of the Susquehanna River right here out of Bloomsburg Whether you’re chasing smallmouth, muskie, or catfish – we’ve got you covered and we know every bend, riffle and honey hole on the North Branch.
“From total beginners to seasoned anglers, everyone is welcome and I’m dedicated to making their day on the water both successful and memorable – from quiet morning drifts to active evening bites along shale banks and current breaks. For those looking for a professional guide on one of Pennsylvania’s most productive rivers, I’d love to take them fishing.”
A 2000 graduate of Mount Carmel Area, Thomas played football for the Red Tornadoes and remains associated with the game as an assistant coach on the staff of former Tornado Mike Kogut at Bloomsburg High. His earliest memories of fishing are as a youngster with his dad for trout, but in time his favorite type of fishing became targeting bass and the other warm-water species on the Susquehanna.
Bass is by far the No. 1 spies when it comes to targeted fish on the Susquehanna, but close behind in popularity is channel catfish. Flathead catfish are scarce, and require their own special technique to be targeted, but when one of these monsters are hooked they provide an unforgettable battle.
Muskies, in spite of their fish-of-10,000-casts reputation, continue to attract anglers specifically targeting them. Most are caught by anglers targeting bass, which makes boating them a challenge on bass tackle, but Thomas has heavier rigs for trips charted specifically for muskies.
Anglers are welcome to bring their favorite rod, but all rods and terminal tackle is provided for all charters with rods rigged for current river conditions. All guided trips follow a Catch-Picture-Release philosophy to support the long-term health of the Susquehanna’s fish populations. That said, one live trophy catch may be kept, and catfish are always welcome to take home for a great meal.
“We encourage mounting reproductions for trophy catches, which is a beautiful way to preserve the memory, and by all means remember to bring a camera,” Thomas said. ”Wildlife is abundant along the banks of the Susquehanna and you never know when an eagle is going to soar overhead.
“For safety and comfort, trips are limited to two adults or one adult and two children, and all children age 12 and younger must wear a life jacket at all times. We have a cooler stocked with bottled water and space to bring a lunch and snacks or lunches consisting of two turkey or ham sandwiches, two bags of chips and either two apples or oranges can be ordered when booking a trip.”
Thomas offers trips or two, four and six hours for most species, with prices ranging between $150 and $375. Muskie charters are limited to four and six hurts and prices are $325 and $450, and overnight trips of eight hours priced at $525 are offered,
“What I enjoy is what the river has to offer not just from the fishing, but also some of the most breathtaking scenery in central Pennsylvania,” Thomas said. “We also offer lake charters to Lake Jean, Lilly Lake and Lake Chillisquaque.
“It’s our goal to provide a quality experience on the river and we will be fishing until ice prevents us from launching the boat. Just give us a call, or visit our website or Facebook page.”
To contact Sean Thomas and Susky Charters call 814-386-1664, email seanthomas005@gmail.com or go to www.suskycharterrs.com.)
(Dietz is a member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association. Contact the writer: outdoors@republicanherald.com.)