The smallmouths have been an issue fishing for walleyes. When I get into 17 fow or less the rods start firing with big smallies. Sometimes I had multiple fish on at a time and I had to move to deeper water to avoid catching them. Many were in the 16-20" range. I would think they would be around for the opener. Stick baits off boards and shallow set riggers. Come opening weekend I may try long lining some shallow divers with light spinning gear if I don't fish Chippewa Bay.