Smallmouth
Identification & Features
Smallmouth will vary from bronze to golden brown and even dark green. Their mouth extends back only to about the mid-point of their distinctive red eyes. They have two connected dorsal fins and a slightly forked tail fin.
Habitat
Adult Smallmouths prefer rocky, shallow areas of lakes and rivers and use steep drop-offs into deeper water to find cooler water as temperatures rise. They will also be found in weed beds, especially when they are close to rocky areas and deep structure.
Spawning
Smallmouth spawn in the spring when water temperatures reach around 60 F. The male will create the nest with its tail, which is usually in a gravel bed or near a log. After the eggs have been fertilized, the female will leave the nest and the male stays behind to protect them. The eggs will hatch in about a week and the embryos will stay in the nest for about another week before moving into the water column to start feeding. The male may stay with the brood through this process.
Food
Because crayfish inhabit the same rocky areas that Smallmouth prefer, they can make up to two-thirds their diet. In addition to crayfish, adult Smallmouth feed mainly on small fish such as minnows, perch and sunfish.
Size
The average fish weighs around 1 to 1-1/2 pounds. Fish over 5 pounds are not uncommon in the cold waters of the North Central United States and Canada. Pound for pound, the Smallmouth is one of the strongest fighting game fish in America. They are known for their acrobatic jumps and quick runs to deep water.
Angling Tips
Live worms and crayfish are proven baits for Smallmouth. However, there is a large variety of hard crankbaits that imitate crayfish (or other bait fish) that are equally as effective. Soft plastic worms, grubs or crayfish imitations fished with either a lead-head jig or Carolina Rig, will consistently catch fish.
Recommended Products
EAGLE CLAW CLASSIC:
Snelled Hooks: 147
Rigs & Kits: ECCR5, ECCR75, 618
Rods: Powerlight
Reels: Gunnison, Endure
LAZER SHARP:
Snelled Hooks: L139, L704
Hook Styles: L091, L097BP, L150, L7005BP, L7226BP,
EAGLE CLAW BAITS & SCENTS:
Gravy – Bass
Grease
Salsa
Natural Oils
LINE:
Eagle Claw Clear Blue
Eagle Claw Bioline
