Smallmouth Bass

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Smallmouth bass, a popular freshwater game fish, can be found in selected bodies of water throughout the South/Gulf region. They are commonly found in rivers, streams, and some lakes that provide suitable habitat and cooler water conditions.
Alabama: Coosa River, Cahaba River, Tallapoosa River, Tennessee River, Wilson Lake.
Arkansas: White River, Buffalo National River, Kings River, Norfork Lake, Bull Shoals Lake.
Georgia: Chattahoochee River, Toccoa River, Flint River, Carters Lake, Lake Blue Ridge.
Louisiana: Calcasieu River, Sabine River, Toledo Bend Reservoir, Lake D'Arbonne, Lake Claiborne.
Mississippi: Pascagoula River, Pearl River, Tombigbee River, Bay Springs Lake, Sardis Lake.
Oklahoma: Illinois River, Mountain Fork River, Lower Mountain Fork River, Broken Bow Lake, Lake Tenkiller.
Tennessee: Tennessee River, Clinch River, Hiwassee River, Norris Lake, Dale Hollow Lake.
Texas: Guadalupe River, San Marcos River, Llano River, Lake Texoma, Lake Buchanan.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Smallmouth bass prefer clear, cool, and well-oxygenated waters. They are often found in areas with rocky bottoms, gravel beds, and submerged structures. Smallmouth bass thrive in habitats with moderate to fast currents and ample cover.
Look for smallmouth bass near rocky shorelines, submerged boulders, and areas with underwater ledges or drop-offs. They are known to congregate near points, riffles, and areas with a combination of shallow and deep water. Smallmouth bass also seek cover near fallen trees, brush piles, and aquatic vegetation.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, smallmouth bass become more active as the water temperatures rise. Look for them in shallower areas near rocky structures, particularly near points and areas with good current flow. Smallmouth bass tend to be more aggressive and readily take various baits and lures during this time.

SUMMER

In the summer, smallmouth bass seek cooler and deeper waters, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. Look for them near submerged rocks, ledges, or areas with good current flow. Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can be productive during this season when smallmouth bass are more active.

FALL

As fall arrives, smallmouth bass feed more actively to build up energy reserves for the upcoming winter. They may move into shallower areas again, especially near rocky points, riffles, and areas with moderate currents. Look for smallmouth bass near areas with submerged vegetation or along the edges of drop-offs.

WINTER

During the winter months, smallmouth bass become less active and may move to deeper sections of rivers and reservoirs. Look for them near areas with thermal discharges, underwater springs, or near rocky structures. Slow presentations with jigs, small crankbaits, or live bait can be effective during the colder months.

Smallmouth bass are known to be voracious predators and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Common bait options for smallmouth bass fishing include crankbaits, jigs, spinnerbaits, and soft plastic baits such as tubes or grubs. They also readily take live bait such as minnows, crayfish, or nightcrawlers.