DescriptionDescriptionSmallmouth Bass are one of our most important freshwater sportfish. Originally ranging from Minnesota in the west to Quebec in the east, and south to Alabama, it has also been introduced to states from coast to coast. Its brownish to bronze color is legend, and distinguishes this bass ("Bronzeback") from its close cousin, the Largemouth Bass.
"Smallies" are usually associated with rocky areas whether in streams or lakes. Riffles, graveled runs, larger boulders and bedrock are their preferred habitats in streams. Clear, rocky lakes, typically 20-40 feet in depth, are their ideal lake environs. These waters will be reliable providers of Smallmouth food sources, such as small crustaceans, insects and their larvae, crayfish and baitfish.
These fish are quite active, and will more-often-than-not jump when hooked. They are not as easily found as Largemouth and generally not as easy to catch. A fish that can be selective, they have a quality reputation with anglers of all persuasion. Found in both lakes and streams, they can be caught from bottom to top, with a variety of flies and lures. So, they are popular because they offer "something for everyone."
Fly fishing for Smallmouth is a great pastime. Though definitely not a pushover, they provide a balance between the challenge to catch them and the rewards of success in both quantity and quality. Suitable tackle is generally in the medium range; probably more suited to trout than Largemouth. Flies, technique, presentation and "haunts" are somewhat more like trout angling than Largemouth fishing. The most consistent fishing will be subsurface, with localized patterns in medium sizes fished on floating or sinking tip lines. Full sinking approaches are sometimes required in larger, deeper lakes at certain times of the year. The most fun is with larger, "bushy" deer hair bugs or flies fished on top . . . for when a Smallmouth comes calling, it is one of fly fishing's most memorable thrills.