Species guide
How to catch Smallmouth bass
Micropterus dolomieu
freshwatergame fishCentrarchidae
The smallmouth bass is a popular freshwater game fish known for its fighting spirit. It prefers rocky and clear waters of lakes and streams. This species is a voracious predator feeding on crayfish, smaller fish, and insects.
Where they live
Found in shallow rocky areas of lakes and clear, gravel-bottom rivers and streams across North America and beyond. They inhabit cool, flowing waters and reservoirs with similar conditions.
Typical size
Up to about 69 cm
What they eat
- crayfish
- small fish
- aquatic insects
- terrestrial insects
- plankton (young fish)
Best baits
- crayfish imitation bait
- live crayfish
- small minnows
- worms
Best lures
- jigs
- soft plastic crayfish lures
- spinnerbaits
- crankbaits
How to fish for them
- casting with lures
- bottom fishing with bait
- fly fishing
Track every Smallmouth bass you catch.
Bobbr turns each catch into a species collection, quests, and streaks. We're building it now — join the iOS waitlist for $19 lifetime founding access.
Claim founding access