Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieui) is a popular recreational fish sought by anglers in much of North American. Smallmouth were native to the Mississippi basin but have been introduced to many cold water rivers. Male smallmouth tend toward two pounds and females range up to six pound. Southerly fisheries often yield heavier fish due to the growing season.

Smallmouth prefer cooler water temperatures than largemouth bass. They also more prefer oxygen rich running waters. Smallmouth are relatively intolerant of polluted waters yet more adaptable than most trout species. Smallmouth are heavy carnivorous and go after crayfish, insects, smaller fish, and other foods.

Smallmouth bass are very popular gamefish and are "ounce for ounce and pound for pound one of the gamest fish that swims". Smallmouth are also good table fare although many of today's anglers practice catch-and-release fishing to improve fish populations. They can be caught on a wide range of natural and artificial baits and lures including crank baits, spinner baits, buzz baits, and plastic jerk baits. Natural baits are also very productive. Spinning tackle such as 5-1/2 to 6-1/2 foot, medium-fast action rod with 6 to 8 pound line being common.

Smallmouth on fly is increasingly popular. A #5 to #7 weight fly rod is common with either a floating or sink-tip line is common. Lake anglers may want a more quickly sinking line. Smallmouth will readily come to a variety of flies, nymphs, and streamers. Smallmouth are crazy about crayfish and leeches. Top water popper fly patterns are also common.

Photo courtesy of US Government, Dept of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Services