Battle Beetle Bass!

Fishing a beetle lure for big river smallies! I found this lure in the clearance aisle at a local store and thought it would be worth bringing down to the river to see if the smallmouth bass would smash it!
Gear used on this trip:
Lure: Lunkerhunt Battle Beetle amzn.to/3OEP3m2
Rod: St Croix BassX 6'6" M F amzn.to/43qNq0o (new version)
Reel: Daiwa Zillion SV TW G amzn.to/3F6TCCc
Line: Trilene Sensation 14lb amzn.to/44rDODR
Pliers: Umpqua Rivergrip amzn.to/3ykw4ow
Net: Frabill 3673 amzn.to/39S8es0 (new floating version)

[@donmclemore1396]

A perfect morning, drinking coffee and watching Matt catch some smallies.

[@rayflynn7942]

the best therapy for what ails you👌

[@huskergator9479]

Wait - Matt caught a smallie??? No way!!! He never does that.

[@donmclemore1396]

@@huskergator9479 yes he did! I saw him do it. It was like he knew what he was doing. Lmao

[@huskergator9479]

lol. I don’t know why, but i had a feeling a musky was gonna smash it. Something about that loud clacking and the pauses.

[@justhewaves]

"Well, I'm not hammering them today..." *catches 97 18"+ smallies"* 😂 Love this channel and your respect for these brilliant fish so much. Great fishing and beautiful scenery, as always.

[@brendinmorrissey9024]

Nothing gets better than a Saturday ndyak vid

[@packerfan070]

And then going fishing right after!

[@donmclemore1396]

​@@packerfan070loading up my kayak in just a few minutes. 😂

[@brendinmorrissey9024]

@@packerfan070 no literally lmao doing getting my rods together right now

[@zhoup2006]

especially on a cold, rainy, depressing Sunday... haha

[@klizzyykicks1712]

How about Sunday ndyak? I think that might beat a Saturday

[@bigsnag7773]

I love how each video showcases a different lure. You are the cause of my new topwater addiction!!

[@justhewaves]

Topwater RULES. Did some frogging the other night and picked up a few good ones. That rush when they gulp it is unbeatable.

[@patwalker9890]

Lunkerhunt may not always have the most productive lures, but you have to give them points for creativity! Thanks for taking us along for the ride.

[@HuntersUnited7923]

I love how calm he is he just starts the video of him kayaking through the calm waters and talks without screaming and yelling and blasting music this is real fishing

[@rolandgdean]

4:45 So what you're saying is that if I fish with this lure, the smalls will jump in the boat. Got it! Thanks for the pro tip!

[@Psychoti]

My local Ollie's had the Battle Beetles for sale for about $5 a year ago, I grabbed a few. When I fish topwater it's one of my go-to lures for LMB, it works pretty well. Downside is, seagulls tend to go for it too. I've caught almost as many birds as fish.

[@davidlucero7971]

The bob ross of bass fishing, with impeccable casts everytime.

[@the2060ish]

The fish Whisperer did it again..👏🐟🐟🐟

[@73bwell]

😂😂 he has smooooth voice 😂😂

[@colinkelly279]

It's funny to watch vids like this, and I know this is a compressed trip, but you see you catching fish on some of the wackiest stuff out there and there are plenty of fisherman who go out with ALL the latest gear and rigs and get skunked. Keep it coming, love to see the techniques and catches.

[@Capxam]

I think the fact that he lives in an area that is much less populated means he fishes lakes and rivers that don't get a lot of pressure.

[@jamesmcdermott6934]

@maxwellalpert3339 yeah but the end result is the real fact that we git awesome videos to watch of him catchin everything n anything he targets plus It's surely a good bit of work to do what he does!!!

[@FishinFoolsCT]

I swear Matt could put an apple core on a hook and catch a fish. My favorite has to be the Lego Chewbacca though.

[@kevinzalac8945]

My boys and I have been hammering smallies on our river with really simple crawdad ned rigs and finesse worm Texas rigs. Just been having a blast. But also learning a lot from this channel. Great stuff. God bless

[@PaulJFleischer]

Crazy, mirror smooth, river water at the end.

[@KayakfishinwithKen]

Another great video!! I kayak fish regularly and you make it look effortless!! Paddling while being hooked up, to netting and still keeping control of your yak!! Very impressive!!

[@TheJaymon1962]

I'm glad I don't live where that would be matching the hatch. That's a big bug. Good stuff!

[@mikecurran6528]

Water so calm. And no noise except several birds. Wonderful spot to fish

[@cylentone]

Clearance aisle bait shopping is so rewarding... you see things you would normally don't have on your radar and are willing to try because they don't cost much. I have gotten some really good lures this way.

[@Goblinize]

That first fish was awesome, love how he shook your lure and ended up in the boat!

[@htuckey]

If you only knew what a lift your videos give tp this old guy! I'm 81, and can't get out to fish much any more, but your adventures help me get through the days when not much else gets my heart started. Dumb idea time: I watch you fish the same areas form time to time, and can't help wonder if you might be able to tag a few of those smallies (or others) just to see how many of them you re-catch later. Just a small tag with date and location, and other info you might think of. Probably too much extra fiddling around, but it might be an interesting experiment!

[@knuckledragger2412]

Outstanding!! Haven't hit a River in weeks here in Michigan. Rain has them dirty and flowing.

[@markkunka]

I always enjoy watching your videos. If I ever got a chance to go fishing with any of the fishing channels I watch, you are definitely at the top of the list. Thanks for all the adventures.

[@stinkyfungus]

Ounce for ounce, IMHO the smallmouth is the superior Quarry for both table and sport vs the largemouth bass. Given a choice, I'll hunt 2-3 pound smallies on ultra ight tackle ALL DAY LONG vs 5-6 pound LMB. On "medium" bass tackle. Just sayin'

[@brianathern9154]

Matt that's another great video. River was very serene and you landed some quality smallies. After about 7 hours of staining the deck this was a breath of fresh air. Thanks brother. Blessings

[@erichjelmberg1661]

That 1st fish shaking the lure while jumping in your kayak. 😲

[@cryhome1]

Thank you for sharing these experiences with some of us that just can't get out there anymore!

[@JeffR.-ne4zg]

Thanks again for taking us along. Man, I really like watching you fish. Wish I could be there for real

[@45ColtCowboy]

I always appreciate your videos. I love your calm demeanor. Such a welcome change from 99% of any video media fishing. Quick question, what shoes are you wearing? Thanks!

[@chipseiler1766]

Astral Loyaks

[@rolandgdean]

Great video again Matt. Looks like the Bass loved the Black-N-Blue Battle Beetle bobbing and bouncing from bank to bank.

[@ndyakangler]

I believe that lure had size 6 hooks when almost everything else I fish has either size 4 or 2. Those smaller hooks definitely pop out easier.

[@English_MoFo]

Perfect timing 👍🏻 That’s my rule too Matt, if you don’t touch it you didn’t catch it. 😅

[@davidratliff8776]

I liked the headbanger spitfire lure you’ve used it would be nice to see that lure back in action during topwater season for some big smallies! Thanks for the wonderful videos you produce I’ve watching your channel for at least 4 years now!

[@jimvalim1567]

Love your videos! They're very peaceful and calming to me. Thanks

[@lesalbjerg5648]

A TANK! Yes, I know exactly where you are fishing. I fished that area a long time ago when I was a young man living in that part of the country. Thanks for a trip back and sharing some beautiful fish. Nice to see it still looks good!

[@carlmartin4577]

I love your channel I love how you measure fish correctly and don't stretch the length you're awesome bro I'm jealous...from a Virginia boy that loves river smallmouth fishing

[@lupiaan2021]

So Cool! I'm a shore angler catchin' top-water morning smallies, what a rush! I love it when they are striped!

[@BaconNEggzGaming]

Awesome video. I love when you showcase weirdly shaped lures. It's really a testament to your confidence behind the reel, and how bass will honestly bite about anything if you can put it in front of them reliably. There's no trick to casting as well as you, but practice practice practice practice.

[@Matthew-qk1xi]

Nothing better than top water smallies, in my river its buzz baits, tiny torpedoes, and poppers. I've been smashing with Nikko hellgrammite lately. Love the vids as per usual!

[@johnbartlett7000]

I'm gonna love re watching this video in the middle of winter

[@danielkaminske5048]

Did u?

[@kirkallen1246]

I got one of these beetles in a mystery box, I tied it on, ran it thru the water and thought no way would a fish hit this! Well, it looks like I'll be taking her out of the old tackle box and giving her a fair shot. Thanks for the great videos!

[@benjamintraxler9931]

Been a while since chewy made an appearance lol. I look forward to seeing you fish him again. I love all of your videos brother and I appreciate and respect your skill and experience. You are an absolute legend.

[@tylergolka7073]

Great catches on the new beetle lure! Pretty cool looking and hard to resist for bass. Thx again for taking us out. See ya next time.👍🎣🌳

[@zacriefel9491]

Everyone thinks the satisfaction comes from seeing Matt hook some absolute hogs, but they’re mistaken. The most satisfying moment(s) in every video is that little lift of the right leg and the tucking of the net under it.

[@chipseiler1766]

OFTEN!

[@powersaustin63]

Another fantastic video. Monsters! Thanks!

[@theconstructionguy8675]

Always look forward to watching your topwater action.

[@73bwell]

Howdy Matt! I watch your videos every day! You've got me trying more lures than ever now! Thanks 🎣

[@BenjySparky]

Matt, you rock! Love the channel and content! Peace

[@christinerogers5331]

BEETLE MANIA, great video, Matt! Those were some really nice smallies, that lure produced some real quality fish! Thanks for bringing us along, anxiously awaiting your next video!

[@justinberge2887]

Great day on the water. Beautiful smallies! Thanks for another bad ass video!

[@victorsimonsen921]

thanks for taking us along

[@6412mars]

Smallie fight never gets old..dang they do fight!

[@steveo6631]

Seems to be a dud of a lure, but a testament to the skill and perseverance of a gifted angler... I'm sure I would score a 0 with that beetle, but the Bob Ross of fishing can catch fish with a bare hook I'd bet... Sure do wish I could find smallies in my area... Nothing but largemouth that I catch... Thanks for the vids...

[@banba317]

A great lesson in patience; persistence and determination too!

[@24k.purelife]

Always love ❤ur vibes this one ☝🏾 was special keep up the great content bro!

[@allanulen3809]

Thanks for another great video.

[@dennisstewart7849]

Nice video Matt. Nothing better than a good smallmouth bass bite.

[@kiagottigang1512]

Love to see you’re channel is growing! You deserve it bro

[@caydo9959]

perfect video, gorgeous bass, gorgeous footage. keep it up bud

[@zachzz8053]

I cant get enough of these videos

[@rogermeyer5695]

Enjoyed you smallies catches as though I was casting with you. I always enjoy your fishing

[@johns3292]

Leave it to Lunkerhunt and weird baits that prove how vicious smallmouth can be. Thanks, neighbor, for the vicarious outing. 20:40

[@oldmanfred8676]

First Fish, what a jumper, right into the Kayak 😊

[@MWM92688]

You fish some super interesting lures and catch some great fish, nice work man!!

[@sevenduster27]

Your videos help me with my anxiety. Thank you!!

[@WildLife_Perspective]

Interesting bait for sure! Good fishing 🎣

[@aidancole5158]

Love the videos. Nice smallies my dude.

[@theyetirulrs]

The more I watched this video the more I came to realize the quality of the fish might be the size of the lure. Larger baits don’t catch as many fish, but they yield better fish. Another awesome video to be sure!

[@djsthemetereman]

Great fishing as usual & smallies are one of the hardest fighting fish

[@jamessontankersley2255]

Blessed on this fine Saturday 🙏

[@johnbakken1853]

Top notch dedication to the chosen lure.

[@motoformprototyping]

Holy... I think I'll save up for a bass fishing trip to your area.

[@johnbakken1853]

Fleet Farm supply. Taking me back to growing up in Crookston. Love your videos all the way from Oregon.

[@Ruben-pu5td]

The Bob Ross of fishing, great video

[@chuckallen5552]

Bro you catch nice fish on everything! Well done dude.

[@thomasmetzger9234]

NOTHING BETTER THAN THE ONES THAT JUMP INTO THE YAK FIRST BITE. !!!! ALLWAYS APPRECIATE &. TRUELY LOVE YOURE CONTENT. FROM YOURE FRIEND IN NW OHIO & PROUD ARMY COMBAT VETERAN 1ST BTL 16TH RANGERS 1ST INF DIVISION. JUST GOT BACK WITH 5. NICE SMALLIES. BEFORE THE COLD FRONT CAME THROUGH. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING BRO. !!!!!!

[@ironmikebassmaster3252]

Great video as always Matt... That battle beetle kind of reminds me of a wake bait... Strike King makes a vicious bluegill wakebait in the KVD series... I would really love to see them smallies hammer that!!!

[@Pifferfish]

Hit my PB smallie today, what a rush. Really puts some perspective on the big ones you pull in!

[@DanKoning777]

Good stuff as always. As an observation only-if it's slowish when I'm throwing a new lure, I'll go back over areas with the same "kind" of lure(s) that usually produce, even on slow days. I don't wait too long-I want the conditions to be as similar as possible. I've been pleasantly surprised on more than one occasion. Thanks Matt. God bless.

[@73bwell]

I fish all the time almost everyday! When I say today I'm not I turn on your videos and then I'm 🎣🤣!

[@richardsolomon8076]

Tweeddle dweeddle yuk puddle with a battle beetle 🪲 🤣 title reminds me of fox n socks, Nice fish 👍

[@SquirrelTheater]

The fish like him so much, they just jump right into the kayak! 😂🤣😂

[@WEHenry]

I noticed most were self unhooking fish😁, great time for ya that evening👍

[@stillinyaisstillinur3300]

Really enjoy watching the videos of U using Lures views sent in, hope to see u tryn views lures. All ur vids are gr8

[@REGISSANTOSFISHERMAN]

crazy bass boy.! very nice.

[@DavidBronstein1961]

Got this in my Monsterbox and thought it was kinda silly. I guess I will have to try it now😊

[@johnwilliamson2276]

What I like to do sometimes is when retrieving a lure in one direction abruptly change it’s direction at a right angle if I can. Usually I can get a strike from a fallowing bass just at the change of direction. I love your videos and can’t wait for the next one.

[@lovetogun3611]

Got to be a great feeling to fish an area that doesn't have 7 other anglers trying to fish it too. Way to crowded here.

[@MRitterH]

Love your vids mate, this brings me the closest i can come to fishing like back home in Denmark. Living in Thailand its not the same at all.

[@9ine4our1ne]

Love your vids

[@ebaker60]

Nice chunky ones today! You can catch them on any type of lure.

[@fernandovduarte]

Love your vídeos. Amazing. Im from Portugal 🇵🇹

[@CountryWolf_TX]

Beautiful!

[@joseaponte1440]

Some healthy smallies you were catching!

[@ph00z00]

what a great smallmouth fishery

[@tmkayakfishing8236]

That's the kind of day that keeps us dreaming. Big One's!

[@josephukedaddy0548]

I swear you are the Bob villa of the fishing world. Mesmerizing.

[@justinberge2887]

More like the happy painter.

[@BestBass_fishing]

About the time you posted this I caught my PB largemouth. 3-10 on my live target topwater sunfish

[@crazy88909]

That lure reminds me of the beetles from the mommy movies.

[@timothyhaack1207]

NDYak: "On my last visit to the toy store, I picked up these classic green plastic army men. Today I'll be trying the "prone rifleman" and "officer with binoculars" to see if we can't entice some smallies. Let me just toss it over near that log and... There's a fish! I knew he couldn't resist the WWII action of that little figurine."

[@chipseiler1766]

Exactly!!!

[@barebowhunter1850]

Matt is offended that there’s no smallie to duel with, then IMMEDIATELY hooks into a giant battle pig!

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

That first smallie Surrendered to the Authorities! He turned himself in!

[@cheshirecat4285]

The best fishing KZbinr 🙏

[@bite_goons_adventure]

Those battle beattle are 🔥 love mine got the black one but out that way seems everywhere you paddle to is fully loaded my gawd man 😅