Other names: Bronzeback, Brown bass, Brownie, Smallie, Bareback bass
The smallmouth bass is a popular freshwater sport fish known for its bronzed body and robust build. Native to North America, it thrives in clear, rocky streams, rivers, and lakes. Smallmouth bass are highly sought after by anglers due to their strong, aggressive fight and preference for lures. Their habitat preferences and feeding behaviors make them a challenging and rewarding catch.
Other names
Bronzeback, Brown bass, Brownie, Smallie, Bareback bass
Length
~48" (max 69)
Weight
~3" (max 5)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
15-26° F
Depth
1-5 ft
Acme Kastmaster
Arbogast Jitterbug 670 Jointed Topwater Black
Bass Pro Shops XPS Square Bill
Beetle Spin
Berkley Power Tube
Blue Fox Vibrax
Bomber Fat Free Shad
Booyah Buzz Bait
Booyah Squelcher Buzzbait
Cabela's Shallow Suspending Shad
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Smallmouth bass prefer clear, cool waters with rocky or gravelly bottoms, often found in rivers, streams, and lakes
They are usually found near structures such as submerged rocks, ledges, and logs, where they can ambush prey
This species prefers moderate to strong currents in rivers, and in lakes, they often stay near deeper water close to shorelines
Smallmouth bass primarily feed on crayfish, insects, and small fish, and they are most active during early morning and late afternoon
Spawning occurs in late spring to early summer when male smallmouth bass create nests in shallow, gravelly areas
Males guard the eggs fiercely, ensuring their survival until they hatch into fry, which remain in the nest for several days before dispersing
Juveniles stay in shallow, protected areas with abundant food until they grow larger and venture into deeper waters
Seasonal changes influence their behavior, with smallmouth bass moving deeper in lakes during colder months and becoming more active near the surface during warmer periods
