SMALLMOUTH BASS

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Smallmouth bass, known for their aggressive strikes and feisty fights, can be found in various bodies of water throughout the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers seeking the thrill of catching smallmouth bass often target them in rivers, streams, and lakes. Here are some popular locations for smallmouth bass fishing in Oregon and Washington:
OREGON: The Columbia River and its tributaries, such as the John Day River and Umpqua River, offer excellent opportunities to catch smallmouth bass. Other notable locations include the Snake River, Grande Ronde River, and the smaller rivers and streams in the Cascade Mountains.
WASHINGTON: In Washington, the Columbia River and its tributaries, including the Snake River and Yakima River, are renowned for their smallmouth bass fisheries. Other notable destinations include Lake Roosevelt, Potholes Reservoir, and the Spokane River.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Smallmouth bass prefer rocky areas, submerged structure, and areas with good water flow. They can be found near underwater rock formations, boulders, ledges, and drop-offs. Smallmouth bass are also known to inhabit areas with gravel or sandy bottoms, especially near points, shoals, and river bends. They can tolerate a wide range of water depths but are often found in water ranging from 3 to 20 feet deep.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, as the water temperature begins to rise, smallmouth bass become more active. They move into shallower areas to spawn and feed. Look for them near rocky shorelines, submerged structure, or areas with good current. Fishing with crankbaits, jerkbaits, soft plastic baits, or using live bait such as crayfish or minnows can be effective during this season.

SUMMER

In the summer, smallmouth bass often seek cooler water and shade. They can be found near rocky points, ledges, and submerged structure, particularly in deeper areas of lakes or in deeper sections of rivers. Fishing during the early morning or evening hours, when the water temperature is lower, can be productive. Techniques such as topwater lures, jigs, Carolina rigs, or using live baitfish can entice smallmouth bass to bite.

FALL

Fall is an excellent time to target smallmouth bass as they feed heavily in preparation for winter. They may be found near rocky areas, drop-offs, or submerged timber. Fishing with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, swimbaits, or using live baitfish can yield good results during this season.

WINTER

In winter, smallmouth bass activity slows down, and they may move to deeper areas with more stable water temperatures. They can be found near areas with structure, such as submerged rock piles, ledges, or sunken logs. Fishing with slow presentations such as jigs, jigging spoons, or using live bait under tip-ups can be effective in enticing smallmouth bass to bite.

Smallmouth bass are opportunistic feeders and can be targeted using a variety of baits and lures. Popular options include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, soft plastic baits, topwater lures, and live bait such as crayfish, minnows, or nightcrawlers. The choice of bait depends on the fishing conditions, the smallmouth bass's feeding behavior, and angler preference.
When selecting lures, consider using natural colors and imitating the prey fish in the area. Experimenting with different retrieval speeds, depths, and techniques can help trigger smallmouth bass strikes. Additionally, using live baitfish or presenting baits near structure can be effective in enticing smallmouth bass to bite.