Shimano
2.08m
5–21 g · 6–14 lb
Micropterus dolomieu
Smallmouth bass
A fast, acrobatic bass of cooler, clearer water and rocky banks.
Stylised illustration, not to scale.
Baits
- Small soft plastics
- Tube jig
- Small crankbait
- Inline spinner
- Habitat
- Cooler, clearer dams and rivers with rocky ground and current. They like boulders, gravel banks and deeper pools.
- Season
- Most active as the water warms in spring and through summer. Slow in the coldest months.
- Best times
- Early morning and evening, and on overcast days.
- Tackle
- A light 6 ft 6 in to 7 ft spinning rod, a 2500 reel and 6 to 10 lb line.
- Hook
- 1/0 to 2/0 worm hook or a small jig head.
Tips
Use lighter line than you would for largemouth in clear water.
Fish the rocky edges and the seams where current meets still water.
Release fish quickly and keep them wet.
Rules
An introduced species. Check the rules and permit conditions for the water you fish.
This site is not an official source. Check the current rules with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
Recommendations are pending review by a local angler.
Rigs
Rigs that suit smallmouth bass
Gear
Gear for smallmouth bass
Ugly Stik
1.98m
5–21 g · 6–14 lb
Okuma
2.13m
5–21 g · 6–12 lb
Shimano
2500size
Spinning · 150 m line