Smallmouth Bass Fishing Adventure with Ryan Bunnell

Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu) belongs to the Centrarchidae family within the order Perciformes, making it a close relative of largemouth bass and other sunfish species. This bronze-backed fighter is distinguished by its dark green to black coloration with vertical brown stripes that fade with age, plus distinctive red or brown eyes. In Stillwater waters this August, smallmouth bass provide excellent action for anglers targeting structure and current breaks along the St. Croix River.

Smallmouth Bass Overview

Smallmouth bass are highly prized gamefish known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They prefer cooler, clearer waters with rocky or gravel bottoms, making the St. Croix River ideal habitat. These fish are opportunistic predators that feed on crayfish, minnows, and aquatic insects, often ambushing prey from cover near structure.

Smallmouth Bass Habitat and Distribution

These bass thrive in rivers and lakes with rocky structure, moderate current, and clear water. The St. Croix River near Stillwater provides perfect conditions with its limestone bluffs, boulder fields, and varied depth structure. They prefer water temperatures between 60-75°F and are commonly found around fallen timber, rock piles, and current breaks.

Smallmouth Bass Size and Weight

Typical smallmouth bass range from 12 to 27 inches in length, weighing between 1 to 4 pounds. River fish tend to be more streamlined and fight harder than their lake counterparts. A 14-inch smallmouth represents a solid catch, while fish over 18 inches are considered trophy-class in most waters.

Smallmouth Bass Diet and Behavior

Smallmouth bass are aggressive predators that feed primarily on crayfish, making up to 60% of their diet in rocky rivers. They also consume minnows, aquatic insects, and small fish. These bass are most active during low-light periods, particularly early morning and evening, when they move into shallow areas to feed.

Smallmouth Bass Spawning Season

Spawning occurs in late spring when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. Males create circular nests in gravel or rocky areas, often in 3-10 feet of water. During this period, bass become extremely territorial and aggressive, making them easier to catch but also more vulnerable to overfishing.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing Techniques

Effective techniques include jigging with tube baits or grubs near structure, trolling crankbaits along drop-offs, and using live bait like minnows or leeches. Topwater lures work well during early morning hours. In August around Stillwater, anglers find success targeting rocky areas and current breaks where bass ambush prey moving with the flow.

Smallmouth Bass Is It Good to Eat?

Smallmouth bass offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild flavor. They're high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury compared to larger predator fish. Popular cooking methods include grilling, baking, or pan-frying with simple seasonings that don't overpower the delicate taste.

Smallmouth Bass Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for smallmouth bass?

A: Live minnows, leeches, and crayfish are top choices, while artificial lures like tube baits, grubs, and crankbaits also produce excellent results.

Q: Where can I find smallmouth bass near Stillwater?

A: Focus on rocky areas, current breaks, fallen timber, and drop-offs along the St. Croix River where bass ambush prey and find cover.

Q: Is smallmouth bass good to eat?

A: Yes, smallmouth bass have firm, white meat with mild flavor and are excellent prepared grilled, baked, or pan-fried with simple seasonings.

Q: When is the best time to catch smallmouth bass?

A: Early morning and evening hours during warmer months provide the best action, with August being particularly productive on the St. Croix River.